As a nail artist for 20 years, Kimmie Kyees’ work has been seen in magazines, music videos, and on the red carpet. Some of her famous clients include Katy Perry, Rihanna, Nicole Ritchie and Lady Gaga (just to name a few). We caught up with Kyees at the Quo by ORLY Holiday 2014 Collection launch to ask her about how she stays on top of her nail art game and how budding nail techs can follow in her footsteps.

Top nail trend predictions for the year?

“Jewel tones, and deep, rich yummy colours. I love a deep colour that doesn’t look black, which happens when they go too dark. There’s lot of different textures—shiny, matte, shimmer—and I like them because you can play around with different finishes and it makes really cool, subtle nail art that’s interesting.”

Best advice?

“There are so many techniques [to master]. Right now we’re focusing on whites, even though it’s fall. For polishing a white nail, find a good white that has great coverage. On the first coat, use the brush a little on the wetter side without flooding the cuticle, but also not being too thin or streaky. On the second coat, apply that layer really gently, because if you press the bristles into the first coat, you’ll end up with shadows.

“My clients know me as someone who really cleans up their cuticles. There is a common misconception that cutting the cuticle is bad. It’s not cutting the cuticle, it’s cutting the healthy tissue that’s bad.

“I don’t ever finish without some sort of cuticle oil. Quo by Orly Argan Oil Hand Crème is the one I use. It’s fantastic. It’s like dessert.”

Secret weapon? 

“My striper brush. It’s really versatile.”

Strangest tip or piece of advice you’ve ever heard?

“Pam cooking spray as a nail dryer. I’ve never tried it.”

Personal mantra?

“Have passion for what you do, and stay up on the trends. It’s 50% how good you are, and 50% how easy you are to be around.”

Influences?

“My influences come from everywhere—clients, other nail artists (like Tom Bachik and Lisa Logan), and fashion.”