Donghai craftsmen turn press-on nails into high-value art in Milan

MILAN — An Italian model slowly moved her fingers under the spotlight; green tourmaline stones on translucent, green-gradient nails glittered, drawing Milan Fashion Week attendees' attention.

The showcase was part of a special event held on Sept 23 on the sidelines of Milan Fashion Week, featuring handmade nail art products — specifically press-on nails — from Donghai county in East China's Jiangsu province.

Far from ordinary disposable press-on nails, the Donghai products combine art with techniques such as crystal carving, filigree and enamel work. Some elaborate sets are priced at thousands of US dollars.

Li Xiao, general manager of Jiangsu Jingyiyi Supply Chain Management Co, said a hand-painted Sun Wukong (Monkey King) press-on nail set brought to the event proved especially popular. A local tour guide spotted it on the first day and pre-ordered one.

Li said Sun Wukong's overseas popularity gives the design cross-cultural appeal. Because Donghai is closely associated with Huaguo Mountain, the Monkey King's legendary home, designers drew inspiration from a story tied to the area and created this authentic, characteristic design.

"Handcrafting is central to the products' character," said Li. Painting, layers of carving, and the placement of inlaid crystals all reflect the maker's individual artistry. At the same time, traditional techniques such as filigree are also incorporated into modern nail art, giving the products their distinctive character and value.