You know that you’re a nail polish junkie when you get excited and overwhelmed by every lacquer down the cosmetics aisle. As eager as I am to try the newest shades that Essie or OPI have to offer, I’m honestly just as curious to discover what budget-friendly brands and colors are on the market. When they’re one-third of the price, what do you have to lose?!
While some prefer a nice neutral like nude or a rotation of reds to carry them through the summer, I’m a huge fan of color. From the pinkest pink to sky blue and mint green, I believe in using a wide palette of colors.
With all three of these lacquers falling just under the $2 mark, there’s nothing holding you back from obtaining the perfect summer mani!
Nail Polish: Essence Colour and Go
Cost: $1.99 at Ulta
Color: Off to Miami! (109)
If you’re on the lookout for a beautiful, juicy shade of coral (with a hint of orange), then Essence’s Off to Miami won’t disappoint. I was pleased with the consistency of this polish; it went on smoothly and provided decent coverage in just one coat (although I applied two coats plus a top coat, it was merely out of habit!). As far as the finish, I was impressed with how glossy and shiny it was. As we head into the summer months with weekend beach getaways in sight, this is the quintessential breezy, tropical color to flaunt.
Also Try: Let’s Get Lost (128), Break Through (132), L.O.L. (138)
Nail Polish: Sinful Colors
Cost: $1.99 at Target
Color: Rise & Shine (940)
As hard as it may be to believe, I’ve never tried a matte nail polish before. In fact, I didn’t even know that this polish was matte upon purchase. That being said, after wearing it for a day or so, the matte effect totally grew on me. It’s subtle, yet still brings plenty of color to the table. (If you don’t like a matte finish, then a clear coat on top will make it shine!) The best thing about Rise & Shine, a stunning shade of teal, is that it can be worn during the day and into the night. From hanging by the oceanside to a more sophisticated evening out on the town, this color works!
Also Try: Blue By You, Dream On, Bikini
Nail Polish: Rimmel London
Cost: $1.50 at Wal-Mart
Color: Sweet Lavender (420)
I’m not going to lie, any nail polish that dries in 60 seconds or less is a huge selling point for me. Whether I’m on the go, in need of a quick nail touch-up or waited too late to do my nails (after midnight, before bedtime – it’s just never a good idea!), a polish that has a speedy drying time is a keeper in my book. Sweet Lavender is a lovely color that is oh-so-pretty and lighthearted, perfect for any summer weddings that you’ll be attending. Though lavender may not bring as much punch as coral, it is subtle enough to work with virtually any outfit you’re wearing (not to mention all of those summer whites!). Specifically, I imagine a navy blue lace top or a casual, royal blue gingham button-down paired with white shorts. It goes on sheer, so two coats are a must for full coverage. The glossiness factor was spot-on and ideally this color could be paired with a sparkly accent nail.
Also Try: Sun Dower, Sunny Days, Too Cool to Tango
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