Pro Spotlight

OPI Pro Spotlight: @nails_by_yoko

Meet @nails_by_yoko: LA-based, Japan-born nail artist and manicurist to some of today’s biggest stars.

From working with top celebrities to styling red carpet events and gracing the covers of prestigious magazines, Yoko’s artistry is no stranger to the spotlight. Discover her secrets for prepping for high-profile shoots, the OPI shades she can’t live without, and why she loves our new GelColor formula.

OPI November Pro Spotlight: @nails_by_yoko

OPI: What inspired you to become a nail artist?

Yoko: I simply like getting my nails done, it makes me happy and feel put together. It expanded to wanting to learn how to do nails, then doing nails for others.

OPI: You have already accomplished so much! From magazine covers to red carpets, your nail art has been all over the world! What's been the most memorable moment for you?

Yoko: It is hard to narrow it down. I think there are many magical moments when working on a team with beauty and fashion gurus. We put our professions and passion into creating looks for amazing artists and stars for red carpets, fashion shows, magazine covers and live concerts.

OPI: When working with such illustrious celebrities, what's your process for ideating their nail looks?

Yoko: My process is to have my kits sanitized and organized a day before to prepare specific colors and products. I usually arrive before my call time and have extra space mentally and physically, then I just do my work!

OPI: Your styles range from simple, chic looks to bold and intricate designs! Which do you prefer?

Yoko: Recently I am more into clean, simple and chic looks, which is also the recent trend; but I love designs and always like to try some new and different nail art.

OPI: Is there one OPI shade that you can't live without?

Yoko: Yesss!!! Big Apple Red®, Bubble Bath® and Put It In Neutral!!!

OPI: What was your favorite part of working with OPI for the 2024 GRAMMY Awards?

Yoko: My favorite part was that OPI gifted me with their iconic and shiny GelColor polishes in a variety of colors! They were so easy to pack in my kit. The new polish brushes are designed well for easy application. It was so much fun working with my favorite client, Olivia Rodrigo, sponsored by OPI.

OPI: You've built a great social media presence! What advice would you give other nail artists working to build their social presence?

Yoko: I believe it is important to be consistent and creative. I don’t think it is a must to post daily, but you should share photos of nails you love and show your authentic style/character.

OPI: Do you have a favorite story or moment in your nail career thus far?

Yoko: I started as a nail tech in a salon 17 years ago and there was a moment I thought about quitting, but so glad that I did continue and it has been an interesting journey!