On OPI’s Surprising Origin

“I never planned a career in beauty. In the 1980s, my brother-in-law owned a dental-supply company and found that dental prosthetic materials made superior acrylic nails. Together we marketed his product to professional nail salons.”

On OPI’s Big Sale

“OPI was acquired late last year [for a rumored $1 billion] by Coty Inc. This is a huge opportunity, but since OPI was my baby, I feel the way I do about my daughter going off to college next year. It’s bittersweet.”

On the Joys of “Free to Be”

“I grew up in Communist Hungary, where individuality was not embraced. That’s why I cherish my creative job.”

On Her Low-Maintenance Looks

“I have short hair because it’s easy. Beyond that, I’m not the plastic surgery type. My one indulgence is a manicure. This spring I’ll be wearing OPI Guy Meets Gal-veston, a bright coral [$9; opi.com for stores].”