Cardi B’s weekend was a whirlwind of performance and high-profile appearances, culminating in a surprise cameo during the Super Bowl halftime show alongside Bad Bunny. The rapper, fresh off a performance at the Fanatics Super Bowl Party in San Francisco, also enjoyed a front-row seat at the itself to support her boyfriend, Stefon Diggs.
But beyond the game-day excitement, Cardi B’s manicure is generating significant buzz, a testament to her consistent influence on fashion and beauty trends. For the occasion, she once again collaborated with celebrity manicurist Coca Michelle, a partnership that began in when Michelle designed Cardi’s nails for the BET Awards.
Michelle, an OPI Global Brand Ambassador, described the creative process as one of considerable freedom. “It’s nice to have creative freedom when working with Cardi,” she said, noting her approach of tailoring techniques, textures, and materials to the overall “vibe” of each client’s look. Cardi B is known for her bold choices, often incorporating vibrant colors, innovative finishes, rhinestones, and even custom metal piercings into her nail designs.
The collaborative process isn’t always leisurely. Michelle explained that she typically begins work once she receives outfit sketches from Cardi’s stylist, Kollin Carter. Prep time can vary dramatically, ranging from days of planning to a mere two hours before Cardi needs to complete her glam. This adaptability is crucial, given the fast-paced nature of high-profile events.
For this particular Super Bowl appearance, Michelle drew inspiration directly from Cardi B’s outfit: a beige lace-up bustier with long bell sleeves. “Her look is regal and romantic, so I wanted her manicure to reflect that,” Michelle explained. The resulting design featured a base of OPI Intelli-Gel in “My Vampire is Buff” on long, square-shaped nails, accented with emerald-colored stones and flashes of gold. Michelle intentionally chose these accents to “bring in contrast and dimension to the manicure without overpowering the look,” ultimately enhancing its overall impact.
This attention to detail and collaborative spirit is characteristic of Michelle’s work with Cardi B. The manicurist’s ability to translate a fashion concept into a cohesive nail design has solidified her position as a go-to artist for celebrities seeking statement-making looks. The Super Bowl manicure is just the latest example of their successful partnership.
Cardi B’s penchant for striking nail art isn’t limited to the Super Bowl. Just last year, at the , Michelle created a printed green velvet manicure for the rapper, utilizing OPI shades “Suzi The First Lady of Nails” and “Ozitively Elphaba” from the OPI x Wicked Collection. This look, like many others, demonstrates a commitment to thematic consistency between fashion and beauty choices.
Michelle’s artistry extends beyond color and embellishment. She’s adept at employing a range of techniques to achieve unique effects, as evidenced by the printed velvet design for the Met Gala. This versatility, combined with her understanding of Cardi B’s aesthetic, makes her an invaluable collaborator.
Cardi B’s consistent dedication to innovative nail designs has cemented her status as a “mani legend,” as noted by Byrdie. Her looks consistently generate conversation and inspire trends, demonstrating the power of nail art as a form of self-expression and a key component of overall style. From reflective, bejeweled stilettos to perfectly coordinated sets, Cardi B’s nails are always a focal point.
The Super Bowl manicure, with its regal and romantic aesthetic, is a fitting addition to Cardi B’s impressive repertoire. It’s a testament to the power of collaboration between a visionary artist and a style icon, and a reminder that even the smallest details can make a significant statement.
As Stefon Diggs and his team prepare for the remainder of the Super Bowl, Cardi B’s presence – and her nails – have undoubtedly added another layer of glamour to the event. The manicure serves as a subtle yet powerful symbol of her support and her continued influence on the world of fashion and entertainment.
