Q+A with Rihanna’s Met Gala Manicurist

Introduction

The Met Gala is an annual highlight in the fashion calendar, bringing together A-list celebrities in avant-garde ensembles. Among the luminaries who attended the 2017 event was megastar Rihanna, who not only captivated onlookers with her stunning gown by Japanese designer Rei Kawakubo but also flaunted a show-stopping manicure that set trends. In this Q+A, we explore the creative journey of Rihanna’s Met Gala manicurist, Maria Salandra, and delve into the inspiration and techniques that led to that iconic look.

Rihanna’s Inspiring Ensemble

At the 2017 Costume Institute Gala, Rihanna’s outfit was a work of art in itself—a fusion of stacked fabric petals that echoed the theme “Rei Kawakubo/Comme des Garçons: Art Of The In-Between.” With such a remarkable gown, the challenge was to create a manicure that would complement and enhance Rihanna’s appearance without overshadowing it. Maria Salandra, a seasoned nail artist, collaborated closely with the singer to ensure her nails were as fabulous as her dress.

Capturing Marie Antoinette’s Spirit

To kick off the nail design, Maria drew inspiration from the gown itself. She expressed, “After seeing her gown, I thought she looked like a modern-day version of Marie Antoinette, so I showed her a few damask nail decals. She loved the idea, and we ended up with a floral French look.” The concept of channeling Marie Antoinette resonated with the elegance of the gown while allowing for a creative exploration of classic motifs.

The Color Palette Decision

A crucial aspect of any nail design is the choice of color. Initially, Maria had considered traditional colors like red, nude, or coral, laying the groundwork for a classic approach. However, knowing Rihanna’s preference for blue, Maria instinctively grabbed the “Red Carpet Manicure Insta Famous” – a baby blue cream shade before heading out the door. This decision turned out to be pivotal as Rihanna opted for the contrasting blue hue, proving that sometimes, going with your gut pays off.

Techniques and Products Used

Creating a stunning manicure requires not only artistic vision but also technical expertise. For this particular look, Maria used a series of careful steps to achieve the perfect finish:

1. Acrylic Fill: Maria began with an acrylic fill using Prohesion, a technique essential for enhancing the structure and longevity of the nails.
2. Color Application: She applied two coats of the Red Carpet Manicure Insta Famous, allowing each coat to cure properly under the light. This ensured that the base would be smooth and evenly colored.
3. Nail Buffing: After curing, the tacky layer was removed, and the nails were buffed to eliminate any shine, prepping for the decal application.
4. Water Transfer Method: Maria utilized the E.Mi Naildress Slider nail decal, which she carefully removed from its packaging using a water technique. This method provides the flexibility necessary for positioning the decal perfectly on the nail.
5. Final Top Coat: To finish the manicure, a second layer of gel top coat was applied, ensuring shine and durability for the evening’s festivities.

Conclusion: The Impact of Rihanna’s Manicure

Rihanna’s avant-garde manicure at the 2017 Met Gala undoubtedly made a statement, showcasing not only the individuality of the artist but also the technical prowess of her manicurist, Maria Salandra. The combination of classic influences, innovative techniques, and a color palette that resonated with both the gown and the theme created a memorable look that stands out in the history of Met Gala fashion moments. Fans and aspiring nail technicians alike can draw inspiration from this collaboration. What do you think of Rihanna’s Met Gala manicure? Share your thoughts in the comments below!