Nagelati — Thoughtfully Designed, Plant-Based Press-On Nails

The project addresses the challenge of rethinking press-on nails as a more sustainable product system. Conventional press-on nails typically rely on fossil fuel–based materials (such as ABS plastic or acrylic) and are packaged using multiple plastic components, including trays, adhesive covers, and plastic display windows.Additional challenges included reimagining the internal packaging system to avoid plastic trays and accessory compartments, while still ensuring a high-quality user experience, intuitive organisation, and protection of the product during transport.

Nagelati reimagines press-on nails as a lower-impact system through an integrated redesign of product and packaging. Plastic display windows are replaced with a coloured cardboard insert that communicates nail colour and name while maintaining retail visibility. Within a custom cardboard tray organises nails by size, eliminating plastic sleeves and improving usability. Accessories are packaged in paper, further reducing material impact. At product level, plant-based PLA/PBS resin replaces conventional fossil fuel plastics, enabled by a custom stainless-steel mould. Crucially, the nails are designed for multiple uses, extending product life. Together, these strategies balance sustainability, functionality, and retail appeal without compromise.

Nagelati redefines the press-on nail — where sustainability, usability, and retail appeal work seamlessly together.By eliminating plastic packaging and replacing it with paper-based alternatives, the nail kit significantly reduces single-use waste while improving the user experience through intuitive organisation and faster application.At the product level, the introduction of plant-based resin challenges the category’s reliance on fossil fuel–based materials, offering a more responsible alternative without compromising performance or aesthetics.The result is a product that feels elevated, desirable, and conscious — demonstrating that sustainability can enhance, rather than limit, beauty innovation.

Layered reveal experienceEach coloured cardboard insert includes a subtle, personalised note linked to the nail colour — hidden when closed and revealed upon opening, creating a small moment of surprise.Designed for giftingThe reverse side of the insert is intentionally left usable for a personal message, allowing the packaging to double as a thoughtful, ready-to-gift format.Plastic-free retail displayOnce the outer insert is removed, a circular cut-out reveals the nails beneath, enabling clear product visibility without the need for plastic windows during transport or display.Intuitive sizing systemA numbered tray organises nails by size, allowing users to easily identify and remember their fit for faster reapplication.Reusable application systemNails are mounted on adhesive strips that allow them to be repositioned back onto the tray after use, supporting multiple wears and extending product life.