Bernadette Thompson (born 1969) is an American celebrity manicurist and nail artist[1] known for her innovative designs and collaborations with prominent figures across the music, fashion, and entertainment industries.
[2] Since the mid-1990s, she has worked with a diverse array of celebrities, including Madonna, Mary J. Blige,[3] Kim Kardashian,[4] Jay-Z, Missy Elliott, Sarah Jessica Parker,[5] Alicia Keys, Luther Vandross, Aaliyah, Beyoncé,[6] Lupita Nyong'o, Jennifer Lopez and Lady Gaga.
[10][5] Beyond her celebrity collaborations, Thompson has worked with fashion designers like Marc Jacobs, Calvin Klein, and Louis Vuitton, contributing to editorial campaigns and runway shows.
[3] Her work has influenced both street style and high fashion, playing a role in bringing creative nail art into mainstream acceptance.
[7] Through industry connections, including those facilitated by Sean "Puff Daddy" Combs,[7] she worked with artists such as Missy Elliott, and Beyoncé, establishing herself as a sought-after manicurist in the entertainment sector.
[7][12] Her entry into high fashion expanded her influence beyond music, allowing her to contribute to runway shows, editorial shoots, and campaigns.
[5][9] In 1999, during a fashion shoot for a denim campaign featuring Lil' Kim, Thompson created the "money nails" design.
[8] Seeking to produce a distinctive and bold look, she embedded real $100 bills into acrylic nails for Lil' Kim to wear on the set.
Face2Face Africa described her as "undoubtedly the go-to consultant for many A-list artists and Hollywood stars," noting that "her name has eventually become a household brand in almost every fashion magazine.