I hate spending money when I don't have to (aka when I could be spending it on clothes), but I do really love getting my nails done. A few months ago I started getting Calgel on my nails, which is a soak-off gel that can be used to create awesome designs (check out this post from my beauty blog to see one of my designs) because it doesn't chip at all. They last about three weeks, but unfortunately they cost $50 or more each time, depending on your design. I still get them when I have a little extra to spend, but in the meantime I'm getting regular manicures to keep my nails looking good.
I've tried many nail salons in the city, and it's somewhat of a struggle to find the perfect balance of clean, quality work and affordable. A friend told me about Annie Ji's on East 25th Street, and I decided I had to try it because they have the best deal ever: Monday through Thursday, you can get a manicure AND pedicure for $15! This place is super clean, and the nail techs are really thorough. They don't speak very much English, but they do an amazing job -- my nails don't chip for days after I get them done here! I recommend trying to get there mid-day if possible. They are open until 8pm, but once people get out of work this place gets really busy and you might not get an appointment.
Annie Ji's Nails Salon
230 East 25th Street (between 2nd and 3rd Ave.)
N, R to 23rd Street
