Peter Gillibrand

British sprinter Amy Hunt says glamorous styling, including elaborate Birmingham-themed nails, jewellery and a tiara, helps build the confidence needed for sprinting. Nail artist Jess Young argues that personal styling gives athletes self-expression and a sense of liberation beyond team uniforms, while sports psychologist Hannah East says any performance benefit is indirect, operating through confidence, comfort and emotional state. The article also notes the growing overlap between sport, fashion and commercial branding, while cautioning that athletes should use only approaches that work for them rather than feeling pressured to meet appearance standards.