While I'm a nail classicist in many ways (I'd likely be happy with short, red nails every day of my life), a girl does need a little variety.  So, today, I ventured uptown to Sakura Nail Spa, the only spot in NYC for a Calgel manicure.

Calgel is a long lasting, layered gel manicure that allows for a lot of creativity - you can not only choose from a wide variety of base colors but also glitter overlays, gradations, stones, hand painted designs and more.  I found myself inspired by a feature in September's Elle (see a snap of the spread in the gallery below) and opted for a bright pink/black gradation with individually applied stones on my thumbnails.

My Calgel mani should last from 3-4 weeks, at which point I can opt for a fill or removal.  My mani would have normally been $72 (Calgel start at $40 but each added design element adds to the cost as well) but thankfully, there's an exclusive 20% off for Seoul Diva readers, valid through September 20, so $60+ tip was the final cost.

For more scoop on the details and Sakura locations, click here!

Images courtesy of Heather Park.