Celebrity model Winnie Harlow recently got engaged to NBA star Kyle Kuzma, and her nail artist, Loi Lien, played a significant role in creating the perfect manicure for the special occasion. Lien, based in Los Angeles, worked with Harlow to select a blend of two nude polish shades for her engagement trip to Turks and Caicos. Little did they know at the time that this manicure would turn out to be her engagement nail.
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In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Lien shared that Harlow was drawn to a natural and subtle look for her nails, avoiding shades that would make her fingers appear red or pink. After some trial and error, they settled on a combination of OPI Passion and OPI Put it in Neutral to achieve the desired peachy and translucent shade that complemented Harlow’s skin tone.
Lien revealed that they first applied a coat of Passion, followed by two coats of Put On Neutral, which neutralized the peachy undertone and created a beautiful, understated look. In terms of shape, Harlow opted for ballerina nails, a softer version of the popular coffin shape, with a gentle curve that was neither too sharp nor too edgy.
For those considering a neutral manicure, especially brides-to-be, Lien advised keeping the colour sheer and milky for a soft and elegant finish. He emphasized the importance of finding the right opacity for the coverage to achieve a clean and sophisticated look, suitable for any special occasion.
In addition to colour and shape, Lien highlighted the significance of well-groomed cuticles in a manicure. He recommended using cuticle oil to maintain the nails and ensure a polished appearance. As capturing the perfect engagement manicure is essential, Lien suggested using iPhone’s portrait mode to focus on the nails and ring, creating a professional and visually appealing photo.
The engagement between Winnie Harlow and Kyle Kuzma was announced via a joint Instagram post, adding an extra special touch to the significance of Harlow’s engagement manicure. With Lien’s expertise and attention to detail, Harlow’s nails were the perfect accessory to complement her stunning 8.5-carat oval-cut diamond engagement ring designed by Kuzma.
Whether it’s for a special occasion like an engagement or simply for everyday elegance, Lien’s expert tips on nail care and manicure design can help anyone achieve a stylish and polished look. His dedication to creating the perfect nail aesthetic for his clients, such as Winnie Harlow, showcases his passion and talent in the world of nail artistry.
As the world continues to admire celebrity engagements and their accompanying manicures, the role of talented artists like Loi Lien in curating these picture-perfect looks becomes increasingly evident. Through his skill and creativity, Lien has left his mark on the beauty industry, offering inspiration to nail enthusiasts and brides-to-be alike.