From Osaka to New York: The Nail Art Magic of Kako Kitano
The door to Kakolicious doesn’t just open. It welcomes you.
On a quiet stretch of Clinton Street in Manhattan’s Lower East Side, warm light spills through the windows. Inside, Japanese City Pop hums gently in the background. Neat rows of tiny gel pots line the walls, and a soft citrus scent drifts through the air.
At the center of it all is Kako Kitano, a brush in one hand and a soft smile on her face.
“I’m Kako Kitano,” she says with a warm grin. “Originally from Osaka, Japan.”
A simple intro, delivered without fuss. But the story behind it is anything but ordinary.
From Acting Scripts to Gel Pots
Kako didn’t land in New York to do nails. Her first love was the stage.
“I moved to New York in 2001 to pursue acting. I always loved performing, but I also had a deep love for doing nails—even during tours, I’d do my own.”
But life, as it tends to, took an unexpected turn. After an injury sidelined her acting career, Kako found herself returning to the quiet ritual of painting nails — this time not just for herself, but as a serious craft.
Rather than feel defeated, she returned to something that had always been in her hands. Literally.
“After an injury, I shifted focus, got licensed, and fell in love with nail art.”
What began as recovery became a revelation. Over time, her technique sharpened, and her creative instincts started to shape a visual signature that felt entirely her own.
“The ‘Kakolicious style’ grew from my love for clean structure and detailed, hand-drawn art inspired by Japanese techniques and personal creativity.”
From the theater stage to a sunlit nail studio, her creative spark never left. It just changed canvases.
A Studio That Breathes
Now located at 55 Clinton St, New York, NY 10002, Kakolicious is a world away from crowded, high-turnover salons. It feels like an artist’s living room: curated, calm, and completely centered on the client.
From the lighting to the playlists to the careful placement of every tool, Kako has shaped her space to reflect how she works.
“I want every client to feel like they’re getting a one-of-a-kind experience—relaxing, creative, and personal… making each person feel special and seen.”
It’s not just the nails that matter. It’s how the entire appointment feels.
The Foundation That Makes It All Work
Before the art can shine, Kako builds the base. And it’s here where her technique truly starts to stand apart. She specializes in structured Japanese gel, which combines lightweight flexibility with long-lasting strength.
“At Kakolicious, it’s all about the details—Japanese structured gel, hand-painted art, and a high level of care that’s hard to find.”
Every stroke, every layer is placed with care. Not just to make it look right, but to make sure it lasts.
“We don’t rush. We listen.”
It’s a process built as much on patience as polish.
Art That Starts with Listening
Where most salons start with a color chart, Kako begins with a conversation.
“Every set starts with a conversation. I listen to their ideas, inspirations, or even their mood that day…”
From there, she begins to shape the direction, offering gentle guidance while staying in step with what the client wants.
“I guide the design with suggestions while staying true to their vision.”
Even when someone doesn’t quite know what they want, Kako knows how to read between the lines.
“If a client has a vague idea, I ask questions about their vibe, colors they like, or what they’re wearing that week.”
She doesn’t sketch anything out on paper. The concept forms in her head as the conversation flows.
“I sketch mentally as we talk, then build a design organically as I paint—each one becomes their own story.”
That story becomes something only that client could wear.
Nail Art That Respects Nail Health
Even beneath all the detail and polish, Kako’s top priority is something you can’t always see: the health of the natural nail.
“Nail health is the foundation of everything. I use Japanese structured gel and a no-acetone fill-in method that protects the natural nail.”
That means less damage, fewer breakages, and stronger nails underneath the art.
“My goal is to help nails grow stronger while still creating art on top.”
The gel isn’t just a style choice. It’s a protective layer that supports long-term growth.
Staying Inspired Without Getting Stuck
Kako is constantly plugged into what’s new, but never to chase trends blindly. She studies. She experiments. Then she adds her own flavor.
“I’m always researching trends, taking classes, and studying nail artists from Japan and around the world.”
Even the most familiar trends get reworked when they pass through her hands.
“I also love adding my own twist so trends feel fresh and personal—not just copied.”
You won’t find duplicates here. Every set is created with intent and just enough rebellion to feel fresh.
A Brush With Purpose
There’s one tool Kako treasures above all others: a handmade detail brush from Japan. It’s the brush behind most of her signature looks.
“My must-have is a Japanese detail brush—it’s a one-of-a-kind, handmade brush from Japan…”
Its tip is impossibly fine, but never flimsy — just right for her razor-thin lines and delicate detailing.
“I can draw the tiniest lines with full control…”
And she doesn’t take chances.
“I keep backup stock.”
When you find something that works this well, you don’t let it go.
The Reason Clients Keep Coming Back
While her sets are beautiful, what clients often remember most is how Kako makes them feel.
“I never rush appointments. I take time to understand each client’s style and preferences…”
That unhurried care is rare. It’s part of what makes each visit feel special, not just another stop in the day.
“It’s important they feel heard, relaxed, and leave with something they truly love.”
And it’s why people keep coming back. Not just for the nails, but for the energy in the room.
First Time? Just Bring Yourself
If you’re thinking of booking but aren’t sure what to expect, Kako has just one request: show up open.
“Just come with clean nails and an open mind. Don’t be afraid to try something new or different.”
And once you're in the chair:
“Trust me and have fun. I’m here to make your nails look amazing.”
And beneath it all, there’s a philosophy that guides every appointment.
Her Promise to Every Client
No matter who walks through the door, Kako brings the same level of care and intention to every set.
“My promise is that you’ll leave with nails that are not only beautiful, but thoughtfully designed just for you. At Kakolicious, it’s not just about trends—it’s about care, creativity, and connection.”
That philosophy is felt in every brushstroke.
Book Your Appointment at Kakolicious
You’ll find Kako at 55 Clinton St, New York, NY, 10002, in Manhattan’s Lower East Side. DM @kakolicious or book online. Just don’t wait too long. Appointments go fast, and it only takes one visit to understand why.
These aren’t just nails. They’re tiny, wearable works of art that tell a story — yours.