Tried & Tested: Summer nail polish
We've tested summer's hottest new nail varnishes.
A new season warrants a new polish, and with summer round the corner, it's time to get the hottest colours at your fingertips. We've tested some of 2014's latest nail varnishes and given you the low down on which you should be stashing in your suitcase come holiday time.
CK one in Beach Party - 4.5/5
This shade of bright pink nail varnish is my absolute favourite, and so now is this actual polish. It really resisted chipping, even after furiously typing on my keyboard. Two coats are needed, as the first was slightly watery. But after the second application, the colour was vibrant and not too thick. I also love that it has a slightly floral scent too. A definite winner.
OPI in Down to the Core-Al - 3.5/5
Nothing says summer more than a coral shade of nail varnish, even if the rain is pouring down outside. OPI is one of the most popular nail polish brands on the planet so I was excited to try out this vibrant new colour from their neons range. I have fair skin so it stood out beautifully after two coats and was neat and easy to apply. While it lasted great for two days, it began to chip shortly after. A bit disappointing considering I'd added a top coat to be safe, so while I love the effect it gives, I wouldn't rate it highly for long-lasting coverage.
Joan Collins Nail Lacquer in Evelyn - 2/5
If this was based on packaging alone it would get top marks - I loved the '80s vibe of the huge, golden, pointy lid. The colour is a brightish pink and while it is nice and summery, it's nothing I haven't seen many times before. The polish was easy to apply and it dried quickly, but that's where the positive bits end. Within less than 24 hours it had chipped badly enough to warrant removal, and it also lost its shine very quickly.
Essie in Bikini So Teeny - 5/5
I am absolutely in love with this colour. When I first saw it in the bottle I wasn't completely sure, as it appeared to be more of a pastel lavender. But once on, this is a gorgeous pale blue with a very slight hint of shimmer. It's a colour that would look amazing against tanned skin, making it perfect for summer. As always, the Essie brush aided application well and allowed for even coverage. The ultimate test - I wore it to a weekend festival and it only chipped slightly on one nail.
Barry M Gelly Hi-Shine in Damson - 3.5/5
The new shades in Barry M's collection are literally mouth watering, particularly the cool blue Damson I tried. The varnish dries quickly, and left my nails with a bright bold colour perfect for the summer season. I didn't put a top coat on and found it chipped within a day, but only at the tips, which a top coat would protect from. A fun shade with easy application.
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