Christmas nailed

Don’t have a manicurist on speed dial? The next best thing is The Paint Shop by Nails Inc at Selfridges – ideal for that all-important Express mani.

As part of the Beauty Workshop at Selfridges in London, the paint Shop by Nails Inc is the perfect place for a pamper. For a quick fix, ask for the Express manicure and get a shape and lacquer by professional technicians dressed in paint shop white overalls.

My appointment is booked in for 11am on a Saturday morning – prime time. Just before the busy lunchtime rush, and only two weekends before Christmas. Walk-ins are still possible, but at this time of year you really ought to book at least two days in advance. If you favour a weekend appointment then word to the wise – a weeks notice is advised by the technicians.

The in-house nail bar is more relaxed and welcoming than one might expect from the super-shop. Short on time? This is the place. Check-in, pick your polish from the vast selection and settled onto your stool as the friendly staff get to work on your tips. It is not somewhere you come for peace and quiet but the ideal place for a no-fuss file and polish. Inspite of being surrounded by bustling shoppers, and the loud festive tunes, you zone out and watch the masters of quick-file at work. Expect a brief chit-chat and to be done and dusted and on your merry way in a mere 22 mins (including choosing your colour and settling up, I counted, yes) – leaving more than enough time for a relaxed lunch hour.

The end result? My digits looked divine and the manicure lasted a little more than 5 days.

Nailed it.

From £19 | 020 7493 2174 |  nailsinc.com