London Fashion Week- Fred Butler AW12

Monday 20th Feb 12

This is not my work but these sushi nails were designed by Marian Newman and applied by another member of our team, Hollie Wakeham, for Fred Butler's A/W 12 collection.

However, I thought they were so fab that you all ought to see them!!!

Some photos by Becky Mayne for minx, others by Hollie Wakeham.

Here is n edited version of the accompanying press release for those wh wish to know how these nails came to be:

Fred Butler’s collection of Autumn/Winter 2012 accessories was presented on February 20, 2012 at the British Fashion Council Portico Show Space at Somerset House, along with custom 3D Minx created by legendary UK nail stylist Marian Newman.

“There is nothing I enjoy more than pushing boundaries and creating completely new, unique nail fashion,” explained Marian. “Last season I created nails that resembled tiny sea creatures, so when Kim Howells, the stylist, approached me again this season I was so excited to hear the theme!”

Marian was not disappointed. The concept behind this collection was based on 70's James Bond Babes hitting the sexy ski slopes for snow action, and then relaxing afterward to eat playful sushi. “The sushi theme completely hooked me,” said Marian, “and I began devising nails that would incorporate 3D effects with the realistic graphics Minx can deliver.”

Marian contacted Minx co-founder Janice Jordan and provided her with samples of graphics to be incorporated into Minx templates. Once the Minx was delivered, Marian began preparing the nails on 14 tips. “I wanted to create the look and feel of real sushi, so I placed shapes made from clay under the sushi graphics to add dimension, and also added embellishments such as red caviar and Minx cut-outs on top,” Marian revealed.

“When Fred saw the nails, she said ‘Oh my God, you have got to be kidding! These are out of control!” revealed Marian. “I laughed and told her that I created a variety of sushi and sashimi to be enjoyed après ski. This was yet another perfect example of Minx being used in a new and innovative way.”

Once the tips were complete, Marian entrusted what she jokingly called her “bento box” to Hollie Wakeham, a nail stylist from Colchester, Essex who was the winner of a Minx contest that transported her to the middle of London Fashion Week. Hollie carefully transported the finished tips to the Somerset House the day of the presentation to apply them to the two models who were not wearing mitten accessories.

“Everyone at the presentation was staring at the nails with their mouths open,” laughed Hollie. “The sushi Minx was a perfect accent and showed how nail fashion is key to completing an overall look!”