The Vibrant World of Mei Kawajiri: Nail Art as a Celebrity Canvas

From her humble beginnings in Kyoto to becoming the go-to nail artist for A-listers in New York City, Mei Kawajiri uses her remarkable talent to transform nails into detailed works of art.

Mei Kawajiri, a trailblazer in nail artistry, has carved out a unique niche for herself by creating stunning nail art for a clientele that includes some of the biggest names in entertainment. Every week, she embarks on hotel calls to bring her extravagant designs to life for celebrities such as Cardi B, Heidi Klum, Ariana Grande, and Bad Bunny. With over 343,000 followers on Instagram, Kawajiri's viral creations often showcase her unparalleled creativity, from meticulously crafted 3-D pastries to hand-painted portraits of anime characters and impressive six-inch acrylics adorned with jewels and lace.

Outside of her celebrity collaborations, Kawajiri operates from her home office in the Lower East Side of Manhattan, blending work with family life as her nail station sits opposite a playpen filled with toys for her young child. Her journey began in Kyoto, where she honed her skills, ultimately opening her first studio in Harajuku, Tokyo at the young age of 23.

In 2012, on the recommendation of a client's American friend, Kawajiri took a leap of faith and moved to New York City. Arriving alone and speaking little English, she would often make the lengthy four-mile trek from the Lower East Side to the prestigious Plaza Hotel, portfolio in hand, seeking validation for her desire to take her artistry to a new level. “I would ask people, ‘Do you think I should move to New York?’” she recalls. With her signature kawaii aesthetic – characterized by bright colors, blunt bangs, and whimsical accessories like hot pink Miu Miu hair clips and bunny slippers – Kawajiri quickly became a standout figure in the nail art community. Her creations not only resonate with her celebrity clientele but also capture the imagination of fans worldwide.