
Get The Look: NYFW - Christian Cowan Nail Designs
For Christian Cowan’s Spring/Summer 2027 collection, the designer drew inspiration from classic feminine silhouettes, reimagined with a cool edge and unexpected textures.
The Smokies Nail Show, held in July at the Gatlinburg Convention Center brought together industry experts, trendsetters, and leading brands celebrating all things nails.










Armadillo Gallery
Photo: Nail Tech Event of the Smokies
The 16th Smokies Nail Show was held July 7-10, catering to nail techs, recently concluded in the heart of Gatlinburg, TN, home of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The event brought together industry experts, trendsetters, and leading brands celebrating all things nails.
The Smokies Nail Show, held at the Gatlinburg Convention Center, was a platform for networking, learning, and showcasing the latest in nail care, design, and products. Nail technicians, salon/spa owners, and beauty school students from across the country (one coming all the way from India as her nail tech sister did in 2011) gathered to be part of the show, with many bringing their families to create Smoky Mountain memories on their tax write-off vacation.
Exhibitors: The three show floors showcased exhibitors with cutting-edge products, tools, and technologies. Attendees had the opportunity to explore and interact with the brands, gaining invaluable insights to elevate their nail services. Several exhibiting nail companies sold out of most products midway through the day and were happily taking sales orders for shipment.
Workshops and Seminars: Industry professionals led three extra days (Fri/Sat/Mon) of about 30 optional paid interactive workshops and seminars with several selling out in advance. Educators shared their expertise and techniques to inspire nail techs as well as enhance the skills of participants. From nail art masterclasses to business development strategies to advanced foot care, attendees left with a wealth of knowledge to boost their careers.
Networking: The new “Swag Swap Center” provided a conducive environment for networking and relaxation, while fostering connections among nail techs. Attendees had the chance to exchange nail swag, discuss problem solving techniques, and forge meaningful relationships, plus explore potential collaborations that could shape their professional journey.
"We are thrilled to witness the overwhelming response and enthusiasm from the nail tech community. The passion and dedication displayed by everyone involved highlight the significance of such professional nails-only events in fostering growth and excellence within our licensed nail industry.”
The Smokies Nail Show’s sponsors were Light Elegance, Gehwol, 2 Blondes Apparel, and Lucas Products.
As the curtain falls on this year's event, anticipation builds for the next installment of the Smokies Nail Show (July 12th - 15th, 2024).

For Christian Cowan’s Spring/Summer 2027 collection, the designer drew inspiration from classic feminine silhouettes, reimagined with a cool edge and unexpected textures.

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Sponsored by MelodySusie

Join us in congratulating this year's list of hardworking, game-changing individuals.

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In Dubai, a salon visit isn’t an appointment. It’s a weekly routine, and clients can spend $800 to $1,400 a month on it, according to Gaurav Tripathi of MADI International. On October 6-8, 2026, the market behind those numbers opens its doors as Beautyworld Dubai marks its 30th edition at the Dubai World Trade Centre, bringing together distributors, brands, stylists and salon owners from all over the world.
Sponsored by BeautyWorld Dubai