Give the Feet a Treat

Rima Kitsko wears one on each foot — a skinny gold band on the right and a wide gold band with diamond insets on the left. Toe rings are hot for summer, and showing them off to customers by wearing them yourself is the best way to sell them, says Kitsko, a nail technician at Spoiled Rotten in Indianapolis, Ind. There are basically two types of rings: solid metal (in 14K gold and sterling silver and adjustables that squeeze to fit the toe. While adjustable rings can be stocked in your retail area, solid rings must be special-order items because each one must be sized to the client. Therefore, making clients aware you carry the jewelry is essential. “Most nail jewelry companies have beautiful catalogs that you can place in your reception area for clients to look at,” says Kitsko. “Also, hanging a ring sizer from your table lamp is a sure way to get inquiries.”

With solid bands, proper sizing is key. The ring should be somewhat difficult to get over the knuckle of the toe so it won’t accidentally slip off. (Most people opt for the toe next to the big toe.) “Don’t worry when you get the ring in and it’s really hard to get on. That’s normal—the ring sizer will go on easier than the actual ring,” says Kitsko. “Douse the toe with some massage oil and work it on.” Wide bands should be ordered 1/4-1/2 size larger since the ring sizer is based on a narrow band.

Kitsko prefers the pricier solid rings to the adjustables. “You need to make sure that clients understand that they’re not only buying something that’s fun to wear but a piece of fine jewelry that will remain in fashion. Most don’t think twice about paying $20 for good jewelry”