Orly Celebrates 50 Years of the French Manicure

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the French Manicure. Orly—the company founded by Jeff Pink, creator of the French Manicure—is commemorating its enduring influence on beauty, fashion, and culture.

Created in 1976 as a practical solution for Hollywood productions, the French Manicure soon traveled from film sets to international runways, becoming synonymous with timeless elegance. 

Fifty years later, it remains a global beauty signature spanning generations, cultures, and trends.

Jeff Pink, founder of Orly and creator of the French Manicure, commented:

“What began as a simple solution for Hollywood became something far greater than I ever imagined. Seeing it embraced by generations around the world has been one of the greatest privileges of my career.”

To preserve its place in American beauty history, Orly has established and registered the inaugural French Manicure Day, to be observed annually on the Wednesday before New York Fashion Week: September 9, 2026, this year. 

Orly’s original French Manicure Kit is also currently under curatorial review by the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History for potential acquisition into its collections.

Orly Chief Operating Officer Tal Pink, said:

“This anniversary is about preserving beauty history. The French Manicure is part of the broader story of American innovation, fashion and culture. We’re honoring its origins and the artists, nail professionals and consumers who have kept it relevant for fifty years.”

Throughout the anniversary, Orly will celebrate the French Manicure’s legacy through historical storytelling and New York Fashion Week programming.