Mumbai football fans embrace FIFA-themed nail art during World Cup
Football fans across Mumbai are turning to customized, FIFA-themed nail art to express their fandom during the World Cup tournament, driving a significant rise in bookings at local salons. The trend, which features designs ranging from national flags and team colors to tiny footballs and trophy motifs, has emerged as a popular way for Mumbaikars to show their support for their favorite teams.
Anisha Mulchandani, the founder of Mumbai-based salon Studio Nails, recently created multiple custom FIFA-inspired nail sets for actor Nora Fatehi’s FIFA opening dance performance. Mulchandani noted that the sports-inspired nail art trend extends far beyond celebrities. According to Mulchandani, sports-themed designs become increasingly popular during global events like the FIFA World Cup, as fans enjoy incorporating team colors, football motifs, and sporty elements into their manicures to reflect their passions.
Other local beauty businesses are also experiencing an influx of sports-related requests. Mansi Bhanushali and Rajvi Bangari, the founders of Riovi salon, reported that football enthusiasts consistently opt for FIFA-themed manicures while the tournament is underway. Bhanushali added that a number of clients have been booking home appointments specifically to get their nails styled without disrupting their match-day schedules.
Industry professionals view the trend as an evolution of self-expression. Adhikansh H Aroraa, the founder of Bombay Nail Company, stated that football-inspired manicures have become a major talking point among clients. Aroraa noted that the shift demonstrates how nail art has evolved beyond conventional beauty standards, turning into a playful medium for individuals to celebrate major global moments and personal interests.
Among the popular designs requested by Mumbai fans this season are team colors recreated as French tips or ombré nails, and national flags painted as accent nails. Clients are also requesting detailed illustrations of mini footballs, jerseys, goalpost motifs, and player jersey numbers or initials. Metallic nail art inspired by the World Cup trophy and chrome finishes in gold and silver are also highly sought after.
