With an Instagram following of over 100,000 and a roster of celebrity clients like Olivia Wilde, Katy Perry and Adele to her name, it's fair to say that what social media sensation Chelsea King doesn't know about nail art probably isn't worth knowing. The LA-based manicurist has just been announced as Global Nail Ambassador for Revlon, making her the first social media influencer to join the brand's celebrity spokesmodels. We caught up with Chelsea to talk nail trends, the secret to the perfect at-home manicure, and what's it's really like to tend to Adele's nails.
Oh, and if you're not following Chelsea on Instagram @chelseaqueen already, you need to do so, stat. Your nails will thank you.
What are the biggest trends in nail art for the coming season?
First, there's nudes and neons. Neons are tons of fun but not everyone is willing to have bright colors on their nails for work! I like to start with a nude base (Revlon ColorStay Gel Envy in Up in Charms, £7.99, looks great on anyone!) and either add a bright French tip or use a makeup sponge to create a gradient from nude to neon.
For spring I love polishes that have iridescence to them - depending on the light or angle they will appear different colors. Revlon's new Nail Enamel shade Daydreamer, £6.49, is a perfect example! These types of polishes make it appear like you did something extra special to your nails.
Then there's greys. Typically you would think grey polishes are reserved for autumn or winter but I think they're extra chic for spring. They are muted like traditional spring pastels, but have an unexpected edge to them. Revlon Nail Enamel in Sophisticated is perfect for this trend.
What are the stand out ‘it’ colours for the season?
I love Revlon Nail Enamel in Adventurous, £6.49! It’s such a fun pastel colour for this Spring/Summer.
How can you stop your nails chipping on holiday?
The ColorStay Gel Envy Diamond Top Coat, £7.99, is amazing, I love how shiny it makes my nails and how long it extends the wear of my manicure!
What’s the biggest mistake people make when they do at-home manicures?
Not moisturising! During a manicure I always apply the Revlon Essential Cuticle Oil (major plus: it smells amazing). Nail polish will stick to dry skin, making it more difficult to get that perfectly polished look. Reapplying cuticle oil daily will also help polish stay longer.
What are your staple nail products?
Cuticle Nippers are great for keeping my cuticles clean and tidy, and then I apply Revlon’s Essential Cuticle Oil to nourish them. I also swear by ColorStay Gel Envy Diamond Top Coat. It gives my nails a gel-like shine and my manicure lasts longer with it on.
Which of your nail designs are you most proud of?
This is one I recently posted on Instagram. I love it because it’s such a mix and match!
Who are your favourite stars to work with?
I recently worked with Olivia Wilde for the Met Gala and she was so sweet. The inspiration behind the look was Olivia's gorgeous dress. It had elements of black and silver, and we wanted to combine them both for an interesting nail look. Her eye make-up was silver as well, and Revlon's Colorstay Gel Envy Nail Enamel in Lucky Us matched perfectly.
What was it like working with Adele? How did you decide on the look?
It was actually for a concert in LA. We did an almond shaped black nail as she wanted something that went with her look and style for that night. She knew exactly what she wanted – so easy!
Are there any celebrities that you’d love to work with in the future?
I’m definitely looking forward to working with the rest of the Revlon Brand Ambassadors. I also love working with musicians and would love to work with more of them in the future. But overall, I just love working with people who love to experiment with color!
What’s the secret to the perfect Instagram nail art pic?
Good lighting! If you don’t have good lighting, go outside. I also have a camera on a tripod so I can include both of my hands in the image but you can also have someone else take the photo for you for better angles.
READ MORE: Nailed It! The Summer Polishes You Need To Know About