As at-home beauty continues to reshape how we define self-care, press-ons have emerged as a modern essential: easy to apply, endlessly expressive and increasingly indistinguishable from salon sets. At the forefront of this shift is Anele Xala, founder of Anailspressons, whose intricately crafted, custom luxury designs are helping redefine press-on nails as a premium beauty category in South Africa.
From childhood creativity to celebrity-approved nail sets worn by the likes of Bonang Matheba and Tyla, Anele’s journey reflects a broader evolution within nail culture — one that celebrates individuality, artistry and innovation. In this exclusive, she opens up about her path into press-ons, challenging long-held misconceptions, and explains how press-on nails are reshaping modern nail culture today.
GLAMOUR: What sparked the launch of Anailspressons, and how did the brand come to life?
Anele Xala: Anailspressons started with a genuine love for nail art —something that goes all the way back to my childhood. I’ve always loved creating with my hands, and nails became a form of self-expression for me early on. Even in primary school and high school, whenever we had civvies days, I’d wear my own nail sets and people would constantly ask who did them. I’d tell them, it’s me — I’m the artist.
That encouragement made me realise there might be something more there. I tried turning it into a business while I was still in high school, but it didn’t workout and I got demotivated. Later, when I got to varsity, I reconnected with my love for nails. People were once again responding positively to my work, and that’s when I thought this could really be a path for me.
I experimented with acrylics, but eventually moved into press-ons because of my job at the time — it didn’t allow me to take on clients in the traditional sense. Press-ons became my way of staying connected to nails while still doing what I loved. Over time, that passion turned into Anailspressons, and the rest is history.
G: What gap did you identify in South Africa’s nail industry that made press-ons feel like an untapped opportunity?
AX: Press-ons weren’t taken seriously, especially as a premium option. They were often seen as cheap, temporary and low-quality — and even today, that mindset still exists. I noticed a clear gap when it came to luxury, custom press-ons that felt intentional and beautifully crafted.
That’s where I come in. I create custom press-on sets inspired by Pinterest references, trends and personal ideas clients bring to me. I wanted to show that press-ons can be long-lasting, high-quality and luxurious — not a shortcut, but a choice. I also wanted to push creative boundaries. There was a time when people didn’t believe South African nail techs could deliver international-level designs, but the proof is in the work. Nail techs here are constantly improving, and showing how talented we really are.
G: Press-on nails weren’t always viewed as luxury. What pushed you to reimagine press-ons as a premium beauty category?
AX: I’ve always believed that quality and intention define luxury. If the craftsmanship is there, from design to prep to application, press-ons deserve the same respect as salon sets. I wanted my work to change perceptions and elevate press-ons into a premium experience.
G: How has at-home beauty and convenience culture influenced the rise of press-on nails?
AX: People want beauty to fit into their lifestyle — not the other way around. At-home beauty has made self-care more intentional and flexible, especially for those who don’t have time to sit in a salon for hours. With press-ons, clients can relax at home while I do the hard work. When the nails arrive, it takes about 10 minutes to apply them — and suddenly, you look like you just stepped out of a salon.
That convenience doesn’t take away from the luxury; it enhances it. It’s true beauty, but on your own terms. One of my goals is for people to be genuinely shocked when they find out my clients are wearing press-ons. I want them to look salon-quality, intentional and, of course, beautiful.
G: How are press-on nails changing modern nail culture and self-expression?
AX: Press-ons have opened nail culture to more people. You can switch styles, experiment and express different moods without long-term commitment. Nails have become accessories — like jewellery.
One day you can wear something dramatic, the next something simple. They allow nails to become an extension of identity rather than just maintenance. I love seeing South African women embracing bold, dramatic nails —it’s about character, personality and real confidence.
Press-ons also tend to encourage experimentation with shapes and lengths people might not normally try — almonds, stilettos, even duck feel nails. People are seriously sleeping on duck nails.
G: Nail art has become almost an extension of identity. How do press-ons make that level of self-expression even more accessible?
AX: They remove fear. You can experiment freely without committing long-term, which makes self-expression more playful, personal and accessible to everyone.
G: Your work has appeared on some of South Africa’s biggest style icons. How did your work first enter the celebrity space?
AX: Honestly, I shot my shot. I reached out to stylists because they’re closer to celebrities — and that became a bit of a cheat code for me. I emailed, DM’d and followed up. Some people replied, some didn’t, but all it takes is one yes. My first big moment came through a stylist I admired. I created nails for her because I loved her work, not expecting it to go further. She later recommended me, and that opened doors to working with more celebrities. Social media and word of mouth played a huge role too.
My work first started gaining visibility online, and opportunities seemed to then follow on organically. I treat every set, whether it’s celebrity or not, with the same level of care. I have found that consistency is what builds trust and momentum.
G: What guides you when creating nails for different personalities and moments?
AX: I always start with the person and the moment. I think about their personality, the mood and the balance between the outfit and the nails. If the look is dramatic, I’ll soften the nails. If the look is simple, I’ll make the nails bolder. Some clients come with detailed references, others just give a brief. My job is to translate that into a design that feels intentional and wearable. Whether it’s a celebrity shoot, matric dance or everyday glam, the goal is harmony — and making the client happy.
G: There’s still a misconception that press-on nails don’t last. What’s the reality?
AX: High-quality press-ons can last just as long as salon nails when applied correctly. The key is proper prep, sizing and application. My press-ons are reusable — you can wear them two to three times if cared for properly. They’re not disposable and definitely not fragile. Most issues come from improper application or being too heavy-handed. Like anything, it’s all about care and proper maintenance.
G: Looking ahead, where do you see press-on nails and nail culture heading?
AX: I see press-ons becoming fully integrated into mainstream beauty and taken seriously — especially on sets. I also hope nail techs start getting the credit they deserve. For Anailspressons, I want to focus on education. I’d love to teach nail art, train other nail techs and host press-on classes for beginners and young creatives. Events, workshops and even fashion shows are all part of the vision.
Press-ons are not just a trend; they’re a creative outlet and a sustainable business. And if my journey is anything to go by, we’re definitely only just getting started.
Recent stories by:
Lethiwe Nhlangothi
How to get over a long-term relationship breakup
6 Trending protective hairstyles that will turn heads
GLAMOUR Exclusive: Interior Designer Bulelwa Jordan-Tati on the interior design trends set to define 2026
Exclusive interview with Bonang Matheba on the House of BNG retreat and the power of celebration
