Nail styles to note from the OPI Trend Tour

On Friday I was lucky enough to get creative at the OPI Trend Tour for spring/ summer 2017.

Held at the Wella Studio, London, the day course saw attendees try their hand at some of the nail art trends predicted for the upcoming season – as well as the chance to play with the new colour collection, Fiji. Sharing her know-how, OPI’s nail art ambassador Sophie Harris-Greenslade revealed designs set to be a hit with clients.

Before attendees picked up their brushes, we were given an insight into the vivid hues of the Fiji collection with the backstory. Available in lacquer, Infinite Shine and GelColor, the 12 shades were inspired by the colourful lifestyle and lush landscapes of the tropical island.

If the colours weren’t enough to tantalise, the OPI team unveiled the collection’s Shade Stories, a series of short videos promoting the new colours. Capturing the spirit of the exotic collection, the team explained how the videos were great for technicians and salons to share across their own social media channels and promote the shades to clients. In line with OPI’s professional ethos, the educator team also shared their top tips for social media skills, charging for art skills, as well as assessing your clients’ needs.

Key nail art trends for the season were also identified, including watercolour effects and techniques, colour contrasting along with soft, brushed textured elements. Intricate woven patterns inspired by Fiji basket weaving were also noted. Translating these themes to ready-to-wear designs, the team suggested OPI’s Designscape theory, which sees a variety of elements from a design across all the nails.

After a product and technique recap, Sophie took to the stage to start her demonstrations. With a range of designs, there was a lot to get through!

Using different techniques and skills, the designs saw attendees get to grips with a variety of art styles. Both flowing and striking lines were created with stripping brushes, while everyone’s fine-detailed work was put to the test with an intricate, repeating woven pattern inspired by the basket weaving in Fiji. Showcasing the colour collection perfectly, marbled designs were created with a clever technique utilising GelColor Base Coat. Textured elements were easily created using a dry-brushing effect. I followed along with the various designs and thanks to Sophie’s step-by-step breakdown, was able to create them with surprising ease.

At the end of the day, everyone displayed their certificates for a photo call. Everyone passed with flying colours, taking home both their nail art samples, certificates and loads of inspiration to try in thier salon.

Shop the Fiji Spring/Summer 2017 collection at trade.opiuk.com