It was really Christian Louboutin who was the game changer when it came to giving us luxury options in nail paints. Until then, they were an afterthought, an accompaniment to the ‘real’ makeup. Once Louboutin firmly established the importance of nail varnish in beauty, luxury brands all over got onboard. From the pretty bottles at Marc Jacobs to the stylish ones at Tom Ford (not to forget a generous dose of glam via Manish Malhotra), we round-up the best luxe nail paints so your mani-pedis are nothing short of fantastic this season.
OPI Hello Kitty
Trust OPI to team up with the star of the decade, Hello Kitty to reveal a super new collection that’s not only trendy but perfect for party season. Case in point, loads of shimmers and glittery options. Our favourite hues include: Pile On The Sprinkles, Born to Sparkle and Let’s Celebrate. And the fact that each shade is super rich, long-lasting, and chip-resistant is an added plus. Priced at Rs 850.
Ellements & Co
This Indian luxe nail polish label has been on our radar for a while now. From acrylic powders to Just-a-Minute gel kits to accoutrements like nail lamps, this online store and nail bar has everything you need to look luxe in minutes. If you want something deep and dark, go for the JAM Gel, Indian Ink (priced at Rs 1,250); there are also Dainty Lilac and Summer Breeze, which require no base or top coat. The varnishes all dry in 60 seconds, and are non-toxic and odour-free.
Christian Louboutin
The guy who redefined nail polish fever, Louboutin knows how to make you buy that US$30-50 (Rs 2,100 approx) bottle with zero guilt. The packaging as well as the nail hues – 30 cool new shades to work with – are astounding. Our current favourite is Dragonflash, a bright blue in that pretty calligraphy-inspired bottle, and the classic Rouge Louboutin. The varnishes are all enriched with UV protection to keep the shade from fading.
Marc Jacobs
There’s a reason why these beauties are being coveted right now. They come with a patented bonding agent that locks in shine, so say hello to shades that look like they are just painted on. Long-lasting and vibrant, the bottles too know how to stay on the right side of style. We are loving Snap, Mint Creme, Enamoured and Good Friday, priced at US$18 (Rs 1,200 approx).
Chanel Le Vernis
Nail paints from Chanel are our favourite formulation. The label has gone from classic shades to fun ones, including a hue that mimics slime green (Fantastic). At Rs 1,500, they’re worth every penny, and come with an added selection of neutrals, from peach to beige to shiny silver. We’re also in love with Blue Boy, a beautiful grey-blue that’s perfect for every skin tone.
MyGlamm Manish Malhotra Collection
Trust the Indian couturier to bring us the best of makeup and nail paints in his very first collection with MyGlamm. The range is mostly shimmer and shine at this point – from classic ones in gold (Blonde Muse) to artistic ones in burnt orange (Scarlet Finale). And then there is Teal Tale, an exquisite green. Priced at Rs 450, they are quick-drying and absolutely delish.
Tom Ford
There cannot be a luxe nail paint story without Tom Ford and its super exclusive hues. Looking for the perfect fall colour? Pick from Tom Ford’s high-brow shades like Scarlet Chinois and Bordeaux Lust retailing at US$29 (Rs 2,000 approx).
Yves Saint Laurent
What’s awesome about these luxe nail paints is that they not only keep your nails from chipping but can also hydrate them. A winner on all counts. Our favourite picks: The Vert D’Orient, Excite Me Coral, Watch Me Nude and Kinetic Blue at Rs 2,200.
Dior Le Vernis
These long-wearing ultra-shine beauties are just perfect for the party season, and the house of Dior knows just how to keep it fancy with ultimate shades like Junon (a pretty grey), Incognito (the perfect nude) and Mirage (an enticing purple). Plus, this amazing nude in Devilish Cute priced at Rs 2,000.
Kay Beauty Nail Nourish
New and shiny, Kay by Katrina has launched new nail polish shades that are not just trendy but oh-so stunning. Let’s just say, pastels are in and Katrina knew how to make them work for fall – so expect a bunch of nude shades, a few pinks, pastel lilacs and of course, brights that can be perfect for upcoming parties. Our favourite shades are: Angellic, a beautiful opaque lilac. Soft Fern, a baby pink hue and Bittersweet, a sweet neutral shade, both priced at Rs 225.
Latha Sunadh
Deputy Editor
When she's not trying on a new serum, researching on yet another classic fragrance and sharing lip balms with her 5-year old daughter, Latha Sunadh keeps it reined in with a nice song and a good book. Special skills include obsessing over handmade, home-made and handcrafted luxuries.
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