Mei Kawajiri: The Nail Artist Behind Celebrity Trends

From her home studio on the Lower East Side to celebrity hotel visits, Mei Kawajiri has made a name for herself in the world of extravagant nail art, showcasing her skills on social media and through collaborations with A-list clients.

For at least part of the week, renowned nail artist Mei Kawajiri is on the move, making hotel visits to craft bespoke nail art for celebrities such as Cardi B, Heidi Klum, Ariana Grande, and Bad Bunny. Her breathtaking designs, often shared with her 343,000 Instagram followers, include sculpted 3D pastries, intricately drawn anime portraits, and eye-catching six-inch acrylics adorned with jewels.

Kawajiri, originally from Kyoto, now operates from her combined home and office on New York's Lower East Side. Her nail setup is cozily tucked away next to her toddler's playpen, surrounded by a playful chaos of toys scattered on foam mats.

Her journey to becoming a sought-after nail artist began in Harajuku, Tokyo, where she opened her first studio at 23. In 2012, she took a significant leap, relocating to New York after encouragement from a client's American friend, who believed her incredible artistry deserved greater exposure.

Upon arriving in New York, Kawajiri, who spoke no English, would walk the four-mile distance from the Lower East Side to Plaza Hotel, portfolio in hand, asking passersby if they thought she should pursue her dreams in the city. Her playful aesthetic, characterized by vibrant colors and whimsical touches, is often matched by her signature style—short stature, blunt bangs, bunny slippers, and colorful hair clips.