Get Like Me: Manicurist Gina Edwards

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The beauty trends we lust over during NYFW don’t just appear out of thin air. Dedicated professionals work to inspire us to get the look.  Manicurist Gina Edwards is one of those professionals. Responsible for creating some of the fashion-forward nail trends seen on fall 2015 runways like Kalelen, and Erin Fetherston, Gina Edwards sets trends and inspires nail aficianados everywhere with her creations. Not only that, she creates editorial nail looks for Lady Gaga, Kendall Jenner, Cassie and more on the pages of some of our favorite publications. Edwards has managed to turn her positive attitude and immaculate performance into a remarkably rewarding career. We chatted with her about work life balance, personal style, and the importance of professionalism.

Name: Gina Edwards

Location: Long Island, NY

Personal Style: “Classic Style with a Glam Edge”

Favorite Designer(s): Lately I’ve been wearing Alexander Wang and Zara.

Must-Have Accessories: A good attitude, a smile and stamina.

Edwards backstage at Kaelen Fall 2015
Edwards backstage at Kaelen Fall 2015

What kind of training did you complete to become a manicurist?

I went to a nail school on Long Island. They educate you on nail health and the anatomy of the hands/feet.

You’ve spoken about having an interest in your aunt’s nails at a young age.  Did you grow up in a creative household?

My father’s sister was an artist, [a] painter.

You’ve had a lot of amazing experiences in your career up to this point. What still excites you about being on set?

Every job is different and the thrill of the collaborative process with the team excites me. I also look at the catering info on the call sheet the night before. I get psyched when I like the caterer. It’s a win – win!

Gina Edwards for Complex magazine
Gina Edwards for Complex magazine

What has been the largest obstacle in your career to date?  

I prefer to call them challenges instead of obstacles. I feel obstacles prevent you from being the best person you can be. Challenges show more optimism. Making personal time for myself is always a challenge.

How do you balance your personal life with the traveling requirements of your career?

I can’t begin to tell you how difficult it is to find the right balance. I am very lucky to have a husband who’s very understanding and supportive. I should just call him Mr. Mom…LOL!  [in] my downtime I do my best to shut myself out of social media and work emails.

What do you wish people looking to get into the fashion industry knew about your job?

If you want a 9-5 job, apply at a bank. Fashion doesn’t know holidays or sick days.

Gina Edwards for Vogue Turkey
Gina Edwards for Vogue Turkey

What do you believe is your greatest strength?

I believe my greatest strength is my ability to feel people’s energy and adjust.

What three pieces of advice would you give aspiring editorial and runway manicurists?

  1. Consistency
  2. Don’t burn any bridges along your rise to recognition.
  3. Unprofessional actions will always come back to haunt you.

What can our readers expect next from the Gina Edwards brand?

Right now, I’m working with brands such as Kiss Products Inc. developing and  creating new nail products. I’m enjoying this journey and perhaps there will be other ventures on its way. Stay Tuned!

What’s the most important thing to keep in mind when translating runway looks into nail designs?

The most important thing to keep in mind is tailoring the nail look to fit into everyday real life.

gina-edwards

What’s in your bag?

Cuticle oil, Dior lipstick #475 and L’occitane hand crème.

 For more information about Manicurist Gina Edwards check out her portfolios and runway work here and follow her on Instagram @ginae1026.

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