The black-and-white color scheme gives Black File a fresh, modern look.
Everything about Black File — from the atmosphere to the interior design to the services themselves — is young and fresh. The recently opened Southern California salon answers the needs of both nail technicians and customers in their 20s and 30s who are looking for a place where they can feel a sense of belonging.
On the ceiling, the word “hello” is spelled out in bright lights. That’ll definitely uplift anyone’s spirits.
> Since she was a teenager, owner Laurie Nguyen, now 30, has loved getting her nails done. Despite visiting numerous salons, she didn’t find one she could comfortably relate to. This motivated her to open her own place — Black File — in hopes of providing hospitality that would appeal to salon-goers of her generation.
OPI, Gelish, and Presto are included in the more than 500 traditional polish, gel-polish, and hard gel colors clients can choose from.
> Black File is located in Fountain Valley, Calif., a small middle-class city that sits quietly between two louder neighbors — Huntington Beach and Westminster. The shopping center where Black File is located, however, is a busy and popular one, housing a supermarket and performing arts center, among other businesses.
Here I am with Dom Tran (right). The techs’ all-black dress code goes very well with owner Laurie Nguyen’s idea of minimalism.
> Black File is all about simplicity. Ten white pedicure thrones accented with black-and-white pillows line one side of the elongated room that is dotted by mirrors, while a manicure bar with 12 seats lines the other. Although the salon provides only basic manicures and pedicures (i.e., no fancy signature services or hour-long spa treatments), the quality of service is beyond basic. Every tech at Black File is able to perform a perfect pedicure or manicure with fabulous nail art.
Black File is the first retail store to feature Jessica Fang Jewelry, a popular online brand catering to young adults.
> There’s no doubt that Black File is a place to socialize. The waiting area serves as a boutique where customers can check out cute outfits and accessories or try on Jessica Fang’s unique jewelry. The music features popular artists like Adele and Lady Gaga.
> To learn more about this salon, visit www.blackfilenails.com.
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