The uniforms worn in the 2012 games don't leave a lot of room for fashion statements or individuality, so Olympians—from swimmers, to weightlifters, to archers—have been using their nails as mini-canvases to express their patriotism or simply reflect the experience of the Olympics. Besides, there's no better way to show off a medal than by holding it up with a perfectly manicured hand.


Union Jack art is big amongst the home team. Clockwise from left: swimmer Rebecca Adlington, a player on the UK's women's basketball team, gymnast Lynne Hutchison, and tennis player Laura Robson.


Mexican weightlifter Luz Mercedes pairs her own flag with the Union Jack.

US volleyball player Destinee Hooker.


Hungarian swimmer Suzana Jacobos; US tennis star Venus Williams.


Many athletes have been Tweeting and Instagraming their nail art. Clockwise from left: US shooter Amanda Furrer, British tennis player Heather Watson, Aussie slalom kayaker Jess Fox, US sprinter Sanya Richards-Ross, and Australian beach volleyball player Becchara Palmer.


Spanish swimmer Mireia Belmonte García, Danish tennis player Caroline Wozniacki, and French swimmer Margaux Farrell.


Archers: Mexico's Aida Roman, Ukraine's Lidiia Sichenikova, and UK's Amy Oliver.


Winners: US swimmer Missy Franklin, Aussie swimmer Bronte Barratt, and Ruta Meilutyte of Lithuania.


The gold medal for Best Nails at the Olympics goes to Italian swimmer Stefania Pirozzi.