This Hollywood Actress Is The Reason Why Vietnamese Nail Salons Exist

In the 1970s, a simple compliment on her manicure sparked a chain of events that would forever alter the history and culture of the nail salon industry in the United States. Hollywood actress Tippi Hedren, best known for her roles in Alfred Hitchcock's films, was the one behind this. Her act of compassion towards a group of Vietnamese refugee women not only empowered them but also led to the transformation of an entire industry. Today, more than 50% of nail salons in the US are owned by Vietnamese Americans.

Tippi Hedren's Visit to Hope Village

In the aftermath of the Vietnam War, thousands of Vietnamese refugees found themselves displaced and seeking new beginnings in the United States. Among them were a group of women living in Hope Village, a refugee camp in Northern California near Sacramento. It was here that Tippi Hedren, moved by their plight, decided to take action. During one of her visits, the women admired her long, polished fingernails, a small but significant moment that would change their lives forever, as reported by the BBC.

Recognising the potential for these women to learn a new skill, Hedren flew in her personal manicurist to teach them the art of nail care. This initial group of 20 women, many of whom were wives of high-ranking military officers or had worked in military intelligence, quickly embraced the opportunity. Hedren's vision was clear: she wanted to provide these women with a vocation that would help them rebuild their lives in a new country.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The Female Quotient® (@femalequotient)

Empowerment Through Education

Hedren's efforts didn't stop at bringing in her personal manicurist. She also recruited a local beauty school to assist in training the women. This collaboration ensured that the refugees received comprehensive instruction in nail care, from basic manicures to more advanced techniques. Upon graduation, Hedren helped secure jobs for these women across Southern California, giving them a foothold in a new industry.

A Legacy of Empowerment

The impact of Hedren's initiative was profound. These women, who had lost everything—their homes, families, and country—found a new sense of purpose and hope. Hedren's compassion and determination to help them rise above their circumstances laid the foundation for what would become a thriving industry for Vietnamese Americans.

In the 1970s, manicures and pedicures were considered a luxury, often costing around $50—a price that was out of reach for most American women. However, the entry of Vietnamese American-owned salons into the market changed the game. These salons typically charged 30-50% less than their competitors, making nail care more accessible to a broader audience. Today, a basic "mani-pedi" can cost as little as $20, thanks in large part to the influence of Vietnamese American entrepreneurs.

The Rise of Vietnamese American Nail Technicians

Forty years after the fall of Saigon, Vietnamese Americans have become a dominant force in the nail salon industry. According to NAILS Magazine, 51% of nail technicians in the United States are of Vietnamese descent, with that number rising to approximately 80% in California. Many of these technicians are direct descendants of the original group of women trained by Hedren's manicurist, a testament to the enduring legacy of her initiative.

A Legacy That Continues to Grow

The women who were part of Hedren's original class could never have anticipated the far-reaching impact of their training. What began as a small act of kindness has grown into a multi-billion-dollar industry that has transformed the lives of countless Vietnamese Americans. The ripple effect of Hedren's initiative has not only empowered individuals but has also contributed to the US economy and the pampering of ordinary people.

Looking back on her efforts, Hedren expresses both pride and humility. "There was hope in an idea that maybe I could help these incredibly wonderful women," she says on BBC. "And I had no idea it would reach the gigantic numbers." Her current favourite manicurist is a Vietnamese man, a nod to the industry's transformation. Hedren's legacy is one of compassion, empowerment, and the belief that one person's actions can indeed change the world. 

By recognising the potential in a group of Vietnamese refugee women and providing them with the tools to succeed, Hedren not only transformed their lives but also reshaped an entire culture. Today, the nail salon industry stands as a story of hope, resilience, and the belief that everyone deserves a chance to rise.