The idea
The idea of Fette first sprung to mind in January 2024.
I had left yet another nail salon feeling deflated: my cuticles were raw from excessive trimming, my nails felt thin and fragile after the previous gel polish had been stripped off, and my bottom was sore from sitting there for hours – all for a simple manicure that I would need to keep for the next 2 weeks regardless whether I still liked the style, not least because how time-consuming and expensive it was to get it done.
The problem
I was aware there were press on options out there, but I didn’t use them for several reasons. I didn’t like how flimsy and fake some of the branded nails felt and looked – because they were mostly machine-made and spray-painted, designed for single-use – and I particularly didn’t like how damaged my nails were after using nail glue as an adhesive option. In addition, there would always be some nails of unsuitable sizes left over that I had to throw away, which, let’s be honest, simply just isn’t good for the environment.
I started researching hand-painted press-on nails, as they were all the hype in Asia. 10 pieces of nails that come in custom sizes, check. Gel polish and nail art hand-painted and crafted, check. A variety of adhesive options that do not involve industrial glue or severely damage your nails, check! It seemed promising that I was close to solving a common problem most girls face, until…
I started noticing the styles available in the market (cutesy, clustered with diamontés, or with extreme lengths or complex designs) differed quite a bit from what I (and most of my friends) wanted when it comes to nails – polished (pun intended), sophisticated, on-trend yet stylish.
The journey
Within weeks, I started speaking to factories supplying hand crafted press on nails and had customised samples shipped to me in London. I then booked a ticket to Hong Kong and Guangzhou to meet suppliers in person.
After visiting what felt like a countless number of manufacturers, I found my dream provider, who not only produced the best quality products in every single style I have requested samples in, but also showcased tremendous kindness, ethics and value in the fast- paced world that is today. And from there onwards, we made it our priority to ensure other suppliers (packaging, shipping, etc.) are also aligned in terms of value and ethics with what Fette represents.
Finally...
Today, Fette is officially born. Not as an alternative to manicures, but more so as an accessory to every outfit and mood you might feel like sporting today and in the future.
Our Collection 001 is curated as a personal love letter to all those out there looking for a solution to healthier, happier nails. Think solid, glossy coloured styles together with pieces with more of a twist and attitude, as well as short, work-appropriate options combined with long and fierce statement pieces.
Happy shopping for your nails – and don’t forget, each set is reusable so make sure to keep them safe and clean and re-wear as much as you’d like! <3