Sharmadean Reid opened WAH Nails in Dalston, East London, in 2009 and since then they have opened up a business in Topshop Oxford Circus and pop ups worldwide, and has become the go-to salon for fashion forward nails. Sharmadean was named one of the ’15 people who will define the future of nails in Britain’ and was featured as part of the ‘New Generation’ in Vogue.

Yesterday Sharmadean Reid released her second book; The WAH Nails Book of Downtown Girls. Showcasing 25 brand new designs, including a Galaxy design for astrological sparkle, a pretty paisley print and an elegant script writing design, Sharmadean also includes a selection of exclusive 3D nail projects, hot tips for stylish outfits to suit your fashionable fingers, and WAH wardrobe essentials to update your look without the huge price tag.

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Sharmadean Reid is a one woman wonder. The Wolverhampton-native is the owner of Wah Nails, London’s quintessential heaven of nail art which launched in 2009, as well as editor of Wah Zine, sportswear editor of Arena Homme Plus and consultant to brands like Nike.

Wah have taken their magic as far as New York and Tokyo and most recently, Sharmadean authored The WAH Nails Book of Nail Art, a guide on how to recreate the salon’s 25 most popular designs at home. Whatever the endeavour, Reid’s story has been one of continuous success.

Twin sat down with the multi-talent to discuss what defines a Wah Girl, accessorising with nail art and past beauty faux pas…

What was the idea behind setting up Wah Nails?
The idea came from just wanting a place to hang out with my mates where I could have anything I wanted on my nails. Nothing would be a fuss and nothing an issue. I wanted uptown meets downtown. There is still no salon I’d want to hang out in except for Wah.

Where do you rank the importance of nail art in accessorising a look?
The first accessory in any look should be an attitude. Nail art is dope and there’s something for everyone. It should be the cherry on the cake for the outfit.

What was your intention with The Wah Nails Book of Nail Art?
My intention for the book was to allow girls all over the world the chance to dive into a little bit of London. I remember being a teenager in Wolverhampton and devouring anything that was cool and London. I wanted to give that experience to other young girls. I also wanted a smash hits annual vibe. Like a snapshot of a time and a place. This is 2012, these are the girls, here’s the nails, this is what’s up.

How would you describe the typical Wah Nails girl?
The typical Wah Girl mixes fashion and street, loves gold and doesn’t give a shit what other people think. She is the last girl on the dancefloor, doing it – doing something, is chill, yet trill and in control.

You have done collaborations with the likes of Minx and Models Own. What projects are planned for the future and how would you like to expand the Wah Nails brand?
I really want to do a product range. Keep the brand on bathroom shelves.

Last but not least, what are your own past favourite beauty looks and faux pas?
My favourite beauty look growing up was gelled kiss curls, they’re coming back now. My faux pas was shaving my eyebrows!

The WAH Nails Book of Nail Art is out now and available here.

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Tags: Sharmedean Reid, The Wah Nails Book of Nail Art, Wah Nails

Sharmadean Reid’s WAH Nails is steadily spreading the word for colourful, characterful and cute nails. Since opening its doors in 2009 the East London salon has worked their polish magic for names like M.I.A and Marc Jacobs and have opened salons in TopShop Oxford Street and Stratford City. Now they’ve teamed up with Minx Nails to create three solid nails inspired by WAH’s original designs. With names like Golden Tribes, Rainbow Tribes and Cosmic Comic they’re sure to be all you need to make a statement.

The WAH limited edition Minx Designs are now available only at WAH Nails TopShop Westfield, Stratford until December 24 and on Minx Nails’ website.
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Tags: Cosmic Comic, Golden Tribes, Minx Nails, Rainbow Tribes, Sharmadean Reid, Stratford, Topshop, Wah Nails, Westfield

Guilt too often goes hand in hand with a spending spree. This Sunday though, the marvellous Wah Nails are hosting a huge sale where every pound spent equals good karma. One hundred per cent of the money raised will go to the British Red Cross, in aid of those affected by the Japanese earthquake and Tsunami.

As organiser Grace Ladoja says, “It’s difficult to know what the best way to donate is when disasters like this happen. Especially when it affects people you know. Donating online doesn’t often feel real because you are just pressing a button and you never know how much to give.”

As a result, Grace has called upon her artist and designer friends to donate the items on sale, as well those who simply have wardrobes stuffed full of clothes they don’t wear. Ranging from lables such as Moschino, Nike and Cassette Playa to old records cakes and art, it’s a white elephant stall like no other. And on top of wordly goods on offer, Wah Nails will also be offering a discount on nails and dip dye hair.

I liked the idea of doing a physical sale at WAH because it brings people together,” says Grace. “As well as buying stuff, they can hang out, listen to music, get their nails done and just have a fun Sunday, all knowing they are part of something that is helping people.”

Japan Relief Fund Blowout Sale, Sunday March 27 · 12-6pm at WAH NAILS, 420 Kingsland Road, London E8 4DG London.
To donate items, drop them at Wah Nails, 12-8pm Sat.

Tags: British Red Cross, Cassette Playa, Grace Ladoja, moschino, Nike, Wah Nails