In Nails: The Story of the Modern Manicure, writer Suzanne E. Shapiro explores why we paint our nails, exploring the trends, art, and traditions that have gone into the long history of women adorning their hands. By showing how we decorate our hands, in both fashion shots and vintage photography, the book sheds a light on what women tell the world through their nails. Here are some of our favorite photos from the definitive look at nail culture.
Nail Queen contestants at the Tokyo Nail Expo