From ancient Rome to modern runways, nails have always been the ultimate storytellers

Actor Khushi Kapoor’s nails at the launch of the Anamika Khanna x H&M collection in Mumbai in August had everyone in a chokehold. The Archies (2023) actor sported an array of nail designs—vibrant green and orange on one hand and grey, black, and blue on the other—that matched her dress.

This year at the Paris Olympics too, athletes not only showcased their athletic prowess and sportsmanship, but also nails with myriad designs—be it intricate acrylics or solid colours of the Olympic rings. Jordan Chiles, the US gymnast, wore square-shaped nails with red, blue, and gold tips at the Games. Chinese springboard diver Quan Hongchan went with a cute manicure—each nail topped with a cartoon character (our favourite? Stitch from Lilo and Stitch and Spongebob). And we are pretty sure you have not missed Beyoncé’s video where she announces Team USA—the pop icon is seen sporting a shimmery stars-and-stripes manicure in it.

They say eyes are the windows to the soul, but let’s be real now—have you ever taken a good look at your nails? They, for sure, reveal more about you than anything else. Manicured nails are more than a must-have accessory, almost an extension of who we are and want to be—offering an insight into our personality, mood, and even our story. 

A flashback to ancient Rome will prove that nails serving as canvases has been a long-standing tradition. For Romans, nail art was a way of expressing themselves, their social status, and personal style with designs ranging from simple to elaborate. The use of bold colours, intricate patterns, and natural ingredients were all integral parts of this ancient art form.

Cultures from across the world have their own tale to tell of how nails have been used throughout history to get an insight into human behaviour and psychology. Consider the powerful statement of a red manicure—bold and fiesty. It exudes a certain aura that every woman holds. A red manicure is often chosen by someone ready to take on the world. Meanwhile, someone who opts for a clean nude set can be seen as demure, mindful, calm, and sophisticated—the Charlotte Yorks of the world. A darker set, however, gives out a rebellious vibe.

Manicures also mirror how we constantly evolve with our nail choices and enter different eras. Kylie Jenner—the OG trendsetter of the long, wild, coloured acrylic nails—is herself a testament to the statement. In her ‘King Kylie’ era, she rocked bold colours and edgy designs. But now, she has shifted to a more clean and refined nail style to reflect how she went from a teenage girl to a mother—nurturing the different stages of her life.

In the girl world, getting compliments for your nails is probably the highest medal of valour and appreciation. More than that, it is an ice-breaker. If you meet your partner’s sister and don’t know what to say, compliment her nails. It is a way of igniting sisterhood.

Now imagine: You’re sitting in the salon chair, hands on the table, no access to your phone, and you enter a peaceful state of mind. More than a beauty routine, doing your nails allows you a moment of zen—a time to declutter your mind. The colours, rhinestones, and shapes uplift your spirit and turn your nails into a mini canvas that narrates your passions, interests, and adventures. So, the next time you visit the salon, think about the story you want to tell the world.

All images: Getty Images and Instagram 

This article originally appeared in Cosmo India's September-October 2024 issue.

Also read: A lazy girl's guide to keeping up with beauty routines

Also read: The nail artists behind your favourite influencers' gorgeous tips