Behind The Scenes: CND Design Lab

Above the freezing cold, soggy streets of Soho, in a high-end hotel every New York Fashion Week season, sits a nail lover’s paradise—a warm, plush oasis, brimming with luxurious velvet couches, plates piled high with decadent desserts and all the nail colors and decorations a fashionista could ever ask for. This is the CND Design Lab, where the nail brand’s core team comes together every season to create specific nail looks for designers like The Blonds, Libertine and Mary Katrantzou. These nail artists spend 300+ hours every season on a single show, handcrafting tiny works of art that complement designers’ aesthetics and visions for their runway presentations. This season, BTC got an up-close look at the intricate work—plus, we got to experience the gorgeous work of the CND artists for ourselves!

Products Used

Nails

CND™ SHELLAC™

CND™

Nails

CND™ LED Lamp

CND™

Nails

CND® SHELLAC® Glitter Top Coat

CND™

Nails

CND™ SolarOil™

CND™

Watch the video below to experience it yourself!

Click through the slideshow for all the behind-the-scenes action!

Finished mani by @therealkisskriss on BTC's Lauren.

Finished mani by @thepolishedpinky on BTC's Steph.

The mood board for The Blonds FW2019 nails, based on the predatory vibe of ’80s materialism—think Basic Instinct, Scarface, sharp glitz and high glamour.

More mood for The Blonds nails.

This nail was created with a 3D printer, making it extremely light and durable.

Rhinestone chains at The Blonds.

High-end, fierce glamour.

Detailed shot of CND's take on the classic French manicure.

Gold chains dripping off nails at The Blonds.

A look at every nail for The Blonds.

CND Founder Jan Arnold surrounded by The Blonds, David (left) and Philippe (right).