CliqOnU x Gary Gagliano

CliqOnU, founded by Vivian Liu Hyun and Jennifer Humphrey, creates ready-to-wear nails for beauty lovers on the go. They offer quality, glue-on nails in a variety of colors, style, and shapes. They have previously collaborated with celebrity stylists and nail artists to create new designs. Through their collaborations, they can go beyond nail art by combining fashion, art, and beauty. Now, they have collaborated with the American painter, Gary Gagliano.

Gary Gagliano, born in Chicago and attended the American Academy of Art, made a name for himself in  the fashion and art worlds in New York in the 90s. He now resides in Bangkok and is known for working in enamels on canvas to create large, contemporary, abstract paintings.

CliqOnU collaborated with Gagliano to bring his larger-than-life art to ready-to-wear nails. Together, they have created two stiletto-shaped nail sets, “Dove Light” and “Raven Night.” The nails were designed to have an abstract “thrown paint” look that replicates the movement and energy of Gary Gagliano’s work. Each nail comes to life with a 3D matte finish. 

Dove Light, $25 cliqonu.com

The first set, “Dove Light,” features an all-white nail design. Gagliano was inspired by the movement of a dove’s wings and the “sense of peace and serenity” it brings. The set also features a black-on-white accent nail design. You can wear this set as all-white or add the accent nails for a pop of contrast.

Raven Night, $25 cliqonu.com

The second set, “Raven Night,” was inspired by the wings of a raven. It features an all-black nail design and a white-on-black accent design. You can wear the set as all-black or add the accent nails for even more drama.

My Assessment

I was thrilled to try these out because they’re right up my alley in terms of style. I have personally never seen any press-on nails quite like these. I received both sets and couldn’t decide which to wear. I mean, how could you? I decided to mix and match them both and got several compliments. The best part was how easy they were to apply. If you love getting your nails done but can’t find the time, you’re going to love CliqOnU. I applied mine in 15 minutes from the comfort of my own bed while watching my favorite show. Each kit includes 24 ready-to-wear nails in 12 sizes, nail glue, a prep pad wipe, a nail file, a pin cap, and a set of instructions for easy use.

“Dove Light” and “Raven Night” are the perfect addition to any black and/or white outfit. These nails will have you feeling fierce whether you’re heading to work or going for a night out. The collaboration beautifully represents lightness versus darkness and serenity versus mystery. Whether you’re feeling like the main character or the unstoppable villain, there’s a set for you.



Interview by Taylor Houston, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine
Tearsheets by Alexa Dyer, Graphic Design Coordinator, PhotoBook Magazine
*Images courtesy of CliqOnU