Perfect your at-home mani with these mood-lifting shades
May 24, 2020
Photo: Harper’s BAZAAR
With nail salons out of reach for the foreseeable future, it seems many of us are mastering the art of the at-home mani – in fact, research by the NPD Group has revealed that sales of nail polish have risen 24 per cent since the UK’s lockdown began.
It’s hardly surprising – after all, a fresh coat of nail polish is one of the fastest ways to feel more put-together, whether you plump for a polished, natural nude or a pop of vivid colour.
This summer, saturated shades of orange offer a fresh alternative to the perennial retro red, while sugared-almond shades of mint and lavender will really pop against a lockdown line-up of neutral basics and elevated tracksuits. For the magpies, molten metallics are firmly back on the agenda, while Chanel’s always anticipated seasonal shade confirms the timeless appeal of a low-key pink.
Here, see the Bazaar team’s verdict on the very best nail polish shades to welcome the warmer months…
Inspired by the hazy warmth of the desert, Chanel’s summer collection is awash with sepia-tinted neutrals. A sure-fire sell-out, the collection’s central varnish, Daydream, is an opaque putty pink. A soft update on the neutral nail.
OPI‘s new collection is inspired by the vivid energy of Mexico City. This orangey peach shade is an instant mood-booster, and the chunky handle means it’s easy to apply, too.
Nails Inc‘s vegan-friendly Nailpure collection is free from the 10 most divisive chemicals often found in traditional formulas. This ultra-bright coral is sure to set off a summery look.
A soft mint is unexpectedly chic, and CND‘s is one of the best. It’ll last for a week without chipping, and the finish is so glossy you’ll barely need a topcoat.
Reflective metallics are a key trend for spring/summer 2020, and Ciaté’s molten gold is perfect for setting off a sunkissed tan (even if it came out of a bottle).
Dior‘s retina-searing summer collection is sure to ignite a summery spirit. A slick of this softly shimmering orange will bring camel-hued separates firmly into the warmer months.
Comprising a miniature UV lamp, prep products and the perfect cherry-red polish, you can recreate that ultra-glossy, long-lasting finish from the comfort of your own sofa.
A truly cult formula, Seche Vite‘s topcoat delivers incredible shine as well as serious staying power to anything you’ve applied beneath. Believe the hype.
