Historically, people have used the word bruja to disparage women for their spirituality and sexuality. But if you’ve spent even a little bit of time online recently, it’s very likely you’ve seen the term used in an empowering way. A female skate crew from the Bronx, for example, proudly call themselves Brujas. The collective – made up of women of color – work to save public spaces in the midst of rampant gentrification. And they’re not the only ones reclaiming the word.
Not that we need another excuse to talk about brujas, but October’s an especially fitting time to celebrate this unapologetic spirit. But with Halloween still a few weeks away, here are eight nail designs that will help you channel your inner bruja in the meantime: