Happy Sunday Readers,
I have had a chance this weekend to finally put together a blog post on something I get asked about regularly. Those of you who follow me on twitter, instagram, or know me personally will know my obsession for my nails. I have a wide collection of nail varnishes and for years I searched for the perfect formula which is reasonably priced, comes in a varied range of colours and dries at a fast pace. Today I will review my favourite budget, and mid range nail varnishes and give you my thoughts on them.
Collection 2000 (now Collection Cosmetics) - Prices range from £1.99
This is one of the brands I have picked up in suspicion of how low the prices are. The range of colours is great, as well as the drying time and finished look. However, they chip very easily- I guess you get what you pay for from this particular brand.
My collection originally started with Rimmel nail varnishes, but I admit I was let down on the 1 minute drying colours, which definitely take longer than a minute. I do however love the I <3 lasting finish range as it chips less easily than other rimmel nail varnishes, however it does take slightly longer to dry and the colour range is limited.
This has to be my favourite budget nail colour, these can last up to a week and come in the largest range of colours and textures I have seen as a high street brand. I love how smooth and even the formula is and I can always find the shade I’m after. These come at the small price of £2.99 per bottle and are usually on 3 for 2 or 3 for £5 in both Boots or Superdrug.
Models Own Pro- £8 (2 for £8 at Boots at the time)
I came across these on offer, and I love the shades, finish and drying time. I do however find them really hard to come by and have had difficulty finding them ever since. I have also tried the models own range but I have to say I was not much of a fan, although they come in a fantastic range of colours. I have no link for this particular product at this time.
OPI-£11 This is the nail range I have been most disappointed in, considering they specialise in nails and are selected for use in salons. I have had my nails done by OPI in a salon before and they have always come out lovely but when buying them myself I have been very disappointed. For £11.50 for a bottle I feel the colours are slightly opaque and watered down, I need 3 coats to make the most of the colour.
Orly-£5
Models Own Pro- £8 (2 for £8 at Boots at the time)
OPI-£11 This is the nail range I have been most disappointed in, considering they specialise in nails and are selected for use in salons. I have had my nails done by OPI in a salon before and they have always come out lovely but when buying them myself I have been very disappointed. For £11.50 for a bottle I feel the colours are slightly opaque and watered down, I need 3 coats to make the most of the colour.
I came across Orly in a salon and I was really attracted to the bright colour and application and decided to buy it to top up my nail colour, I did find however when used myself it chipped very easily which was slightly disappointing.
China Glaze- £4.95- £6
For bright colours this is the go to brand, great range of bright and neon colours, good application however a slightly longer drying time I found. This particular brand is great when looking for summer nail shades.
Essie- £8
On to what I believe is the royal treatment for nails, if you know me you will know I swear by essie. My collection has grown immensely over the past year and until proved otherwise I will continue to buy these as my first option. The finish of these is glossy and very professional, drying time is quick and a great range of colours. What I love about essie is that nails look salon fresh even without the use of a top coat and can last a week if you’re not prone to washing up a lot (unlike me). I cannot praise essie enough, I believe there’s only one or two shades I am not 100% satisfied with however there are always new colours released to update your nails as well as your wardrobe over the seasons. At £8 a bottle although not cheap, definitely worth the amount.
My favourite top coat so far is by Seche Vite, which I came across on Amazon. The formula dries quickly and gives a salon finish shine and it is such a bargain. The only downside is its only available online in the UK.
For this particular review I felt I should add I have never invested in very high end nail colours, such as dior or chanel. The reason for this is I believe in sticking to brands which specialise in particular products, and for nails I have always felt the above brands do this best.
My nails always need to be immaculate as I believe anybody who takes care of their hands and nails (including males) reflect they are looking after the rest of themselves. I also think painting my nails helps me to reflect my mood.
Do you change a part of your look to reflect your mood?
K xx
Please feel free to post any skin care tips, products or comments you may have which could benefit others.
For bright colours this is the go to brand, great range of bright and neon colours, good application however a slightly longer drying time I found. This particular brand is great when looking for summer nail shades.
On to what I believe is the royal treatment for nails, if you know me you will know I swear by essie. My collection has grown immensely over the past year and until proved otherwise I will continue to buy these as my first option. The finish of these is glossy and very professional, drying time is quick and a great range of colours. What I love about essie is that nails look salon fresh even without the use of a top coat and can last a week if you’re not prone to washing up a lot (unlike me). I cannot praise essie enough, I believe there’s only one or two shades I am not 100% satisfied with however there are always new colours released to update your nails as well as your wardrobe over the seasons. At £8 a bottle although not cheap, definitely worth the amount.
Do you change a part of your look to reflect your mood?
Please feel free to post any skin care tips, products or comments you may have which could benefit others.
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