Once considered exclusive to sushi, the authentic Japanese culinary experience “Omakase” evolved into a trend beyond mere food.
Perhaps it was only a matter of time before omakase merged with nails, and today the city of Seoul boasts several unique nail services employing this concept.
Luxury nail session
The5Sneses, nestled within a large hair salon in Gangnam, Seoul, presents a distinctive omakase experience with customized nail designs and styles.
Prior to the omakase session, clients are asked to share images or discuss the styles they prefer to map out the course. “I communicate with the customers a lot beforehand to make sure they like what I create,” said Kim, who launched The5Sneses five months ago.
Once a concept for nail design is determined, the nail artist presents a selection of nail polishes and embellishments on the table. If the choices meet the client’s satisfaction, the high-end nail omakase begins.
The starting price is 75,000 won ($ 56), with additional charges based on the quantity of nail art.
While the cuticles are cleaned, nails are colored, and designs are drawn in, the manicurist constantly checks in with the client, ensuring satisfaction with each step. Detailed explanations of the reasons behind each design are also shared.
“From clients’ skin types to stylings, I consider everything to craft a distinctive nail that suits each customer well. I even consider the way they talk,” said Kim.
After 1.5 to 2 hours of the attentive session, a one-of-a-kind nail is unveiled. Its uniqueness lies in its simplicity and delicate decorations. An application of a soothing hand cream concludes the upscale experience.
Authentic omakase experience
The concept of omakase originated in Japan. So, how about indulging in an omakase experience with a nail artist who hails from the birthplace of this unique concept?
Lilium nail atelier, a private nail shop in Hongdae, offers an authentic nail omakase experience, leaving artistic decisions entirely to the Japanese nail artist Komazaki Yuri. The expert, with spontaneity and creativity, envisions designs in her head and brings these imaginative concepts to life.
A diverse range of rare materials, including the Japanese premium gel and nail paints, are utilized, further setting Lilium nail atelier apart from other salons.
Each petite nail is a canvas for the manicurist’s original artwork. The end product resembles a piece of a watercolor painting.
Echoed in the salon’s social media account – “Don’t opt for gel nails. Do nail art” – Lilium nail atelier is noted for its creativity and distinctive art designs.
Plentiful nail art designs
The definition of omakase varies within the nail industry.
Melissa nail in Yeonnam-dong, a neighborhood near Hongdae, takes on a unique form, allowing clients to actively engage in the shaping of their nails.
In the traditional sushi omakase, a chef typically serves each piece one by one. At Melissa nail, the manicurist introduces all the pieces at once on a sky-shaped tray.
Featuring distinctive designs ranging from intricate rose paintings to adorable cat faces, the artworks are meticulously crafted and curated by the nail artist. Subsequently, customers select designs based on their personal tastes.
Despite the intricate nature of these tiny nail designs, the pricing at Melissa nail is surprisingly reasonable, offering sets of three art pieces for 65,000 won($ 48), five sets for 75,000 won($ 56), and seven to ten pieces for 89,000 won($ 66).
The manicurist swiftly replicates the selected designs onto the client’s nails and colors non-art nails, ensuring a harmonious overall look.
Meanwhile, the charming props and neat interior create a cozy atmosphere for a relaxing experience.
Creativity of nail artists
While the term “omakase” is employed by nail salons, the concept of customized nail art is by no means a recent innovation for nail enthusiasts; it has been a longstanding practice. However, meaning “I will leave it up to you” in Japanese, nail omakase relies heavily on the creativity and skills of the nail technician.
“Nail omakase can be challenging sometimes because customers may not be satisfied with the result. But it’s gratifying to see customers being happy with the final result. After all, they are here to refresh and have pretty nails, and I am happy if they are happy,” said The5Sneses owner Kim.
