China Glaze – The Hunger Games collection: ‘Colours From The Capitol’ (swatches & review)
I had no idea what ‘The Hunger Games’ meant, let alone that it was about to explode onto everyone’s consciousness, most probably because it’s not a story targeted to my age group – but it should be; as a matter of fact, I bought and read this best-selling book by Suzanne Collins, in preparation for this post – I wanted to be able to make all the proper connections! Just in time for the release of the sure-to-be blockbuster movie, China Glaze is set to launch twelve new shades inspired by the story, with a colour and finish to suit all tastes. All swatches are with Poshé Fast Drying Base Coat and Super-Fast Drying Top Coat, except where indicated.
A brief synopsis: Set in the post-apocalyptic country of Panem (formerly The Rockies), this is a story of human depravity coinciding with immense courage. At Panem’s core is ‘The Capitol’, a city of high technology and obscene wealth, which is surrounded by 12 districts, each specializing in a particular field/industry, however the further the district from The Capitol, the more deplorable the living conditions. As a result of a rebellious uprising, a 13th district was destroyed and as punishment, the rulers of Panem decreed that every year 1 male and 1 female child from each district, aged between 12-18, would be chosen by lottery system (for a total of 24) as “tributes” to participate in the yearly “Hunger Games” at The Capitol – a contest to the death where there can only be one winner, not to mention having this entire morbid event televised for the entire population to see.
This is the story of Katniss Everdeen from District 12, the poorest and harshest district, who through a series of circumstances, finds herself en route to The Capitol for this yearly event, and along this journey, what she comes to learn of herself and manages to teach the entire land.
In order to parallel the story, I have chosen to showcase these twelve “Hunger Games” lacquers in descending order, beginning with Katniss’ District 12, and culminating with District 1 … with a special ‘Katniss inspired mani’ at the very end!
*WARNING: This post is epically long (I needed to show all 12 shades!) and picture heavy, so go grab yourselves something to drink & eat, and sit back to enjoy!
‘Smoke & Ashes’ (representing District 12 – Mining), is a deeply colour saturated black base filled with ultra-fine green and aqua micro shimmer. This easy-flowing medium thick viscosity formula can almost be a one-coater, although I applied two here for full coverage. The shimmer is a little shy and not always that apparent, but seen in sunlight, the effect is undeniably impressive. Self levelling and gorgeously glossy, an added bonus was that there was zero staining.
in sunlight
closeup
indoors
with flash
‘Smoke & Ashes’ layered with one coat of ‘Luxe and Lush’ on top: (may look slightly overdone, but trust me that this is a killer combo)
in sunlight
sunlight/alternate view
closeup
indoors
with flash
‘Agro’ (representing District 11 – Agriculture) is a highly pigmented olive/mossy green shade in a slightly thicker formula, made even more unique with the addition of some ultra-fine glitter dust that it bears. As the finish is highly reflective – rather metallic leaning, it can be prone to some visible brush strokes, so care needs to be given in application … but so worth the extra little effort! Two coats were all that were needed for perfect coverage, giving the final look of a deeply saturated green often seen only in vibrant plantlife.
in sunlight
closeup
indoors
with flash
‘Agro’ layered with one coat of ‘Luxe and Lush’ on top: (the shimmery finish of the base shade really offsets this top coat)
in sunlight
closeup
indoors
with flash
‘Fois Gras’ (representing District 10 – Livestock) is a dusky raisin hued shade in an amazing crème formula. Flowing with incredible ease, this was a breeze to apply – only two coats needed for an ultra-smooth surface, leaving nothing but an intense glossy finish behind. Falling somewhere between known colours and rather chameleon-like as it seems to shift between looking cool or warm/dark or light, this is definitely a lacquer that will compliment every skin tone across the board.
in sunlight
indoors
with flash
‘Fois Gras’ layered with one coat of ‘Luxe and Lush’ on top: (I love the amped-up effect shown here)
in sunlight
sunlight/alternate view
sunlight/alternate view
closeup
indoors
with flash
‘Harvest Moon’ (representing District 9 – Grain) is a “to-die-for” true copper hue. An absolutely spectacular formula, this highly pigmented shade is absolutely filled to the brim with burnished gold flecks throughout, that stay at the surface level and never sink into the base colour, as some fine glitter has a tendency of doing. An almost baroque-looking colour, this wonderful foil gleam is easily accomplished with two coats, leaving behind a stunning cognac-coloured shine. TOTAL LOVE!
in sunlight
closeup
indoors
with flash
‘Harvest Moon’ layered with one coat of ‘Luxe and Lush’ on top: (this combination is so incredibly unique – must be seen to be believed!)
in sunlight
closeup
indoors
with flash
‘Dress Me Up’ (representing District 8 – Textiles) is a mid-range nude hue with antique-rose leanings in its base, in an excellent crème format. Wonderful coverage with even just one coat applied, I opted for two coats here to make it completely opaque. Self-levelling and a high gloss finish left behind – an incredibly easy to wear and versatile shade. Did I mention how ultra creamy it looks?!
in sunlight
indoors
with flash
‘Dress Me Up’ layered with one coat of ‘Luxe and Lush’ on top: (the prismatic flashes of the top coat really compliment this base shade)
in sunlight
closeup
indoors
with flash
‘Mahogany Magic’ (representing District 7 – Lumber) is totally delicious! A stunning, warm leaning mid-tone brown hue in an amazing crème formula, neither too thick nor too thin, this flowed like melted chocolate across the nails, leaving behind a perfectly smooth finish and mirror like shine. Two coats were all that were needed for complete and even coverage. So, so luxurious …
in sunlight
indoors
with flash
‘Mahogany Magic’ layered with one coat of ‘Luxe and Lush’ on top: (this combo makes me think of lush brocade fabric)
in sunlight
closeup
indoors
with flash
‘Fast Track’ (representing District 6 – Transportation) is a semi-sheer warm taupe/pale beige hue chock full of gold ultra-fine shimmer dust – or is it a golden shimmer with hints of colour? Either way, it is understated and sublime, with the glitter bits appearing suspended at the surface level of the lacquer. As I personally prefer the look given off with two coats (as I’ve applied here), you could always add a third for deeper coverage. Wonderfully self-levelling and a shiny formula, this shade manages to look both neutral and edgy at the same time.
in sunlight
closeup
indoors
with flash
‘Fast Track’ layered with one coat of ‘Luxe and Lush’ on top: (an interesting look, but I prefer the look of the base shade without)
in sunlight
closeup
indoors
with flash
‘Electrify’ (representing District 5 – Power) is like capturing fire in a bottle of lacquer, albeit with some slight Christmas-y undertones! This is a clear suspension-like yet still thinly flowing base, loaded with small gold and slightly larger red glitter. I applied three coats here for denser coverage since I opted to wear it solo, but two would be enough if it’s to be layered over another base colour. Needing some wait time between coats and not as glossy at the finish as the rest of this collection, I was pleasantly surprised to find that removal was actually rather painless (I still don’t know how China Glaze manages this feat!).
in sunlight
closeup
indoors
with flash
‘Electrify’ layered with one coat of ‘Luxe and Lush’ on top: (yes, overkill and redundant but I was curious just the same!)
in sunlight
closeup
indoors
with flash
‘Hook and Line’ (representing District 4 – Fishing) is a totally strange & unique pearly taupe/grey hue – and the problem child of this entire collection! A slightly thicker formula, the slightly metallic formula means you need extra care in application in order to avoid patchiness at the cuticle level, as well as keeping visible brush strokes to a minimum. With three thin coats as I applied here, full coverage was definitely reached, and while I adore this pewter colour, bear in mind that it’s not as effortless to apply as some of the others here.
in sunlight
indoors
with flash
‘Hook and Line’ layered with one coat of ‘Luxe and Lush’ on top: (AKA: a hot mess! Unfortunately, this combo did not work for me, but I still had to try)
in sunlight
closeup
indoors
with flash
‘Riveting’ (representing District 3 – Technology) is an eye-searingly beautiful vivid tangerine hue, made even more spectacular with the addition of fine golden glass flecks that appear to float at the surface level of the lacquer. A wonderfully easy flowing formula, I applied three very thin coats for the swatches, which gives a fairly decent opacity, although shorter nails can definitely get away with two coats instead. This vibrant colour is like a citrus burst along your nails! GORGEOUS!!
in sunlight
closeup
indoors
with flash
‘Riveting’ layered with one coat of ‘Luxe and Lush’ on top: (oddly enough, I totally LOVE how these two look together)
in sunlight
closeup
indoors
with flash
‘Stone Cold’ (representing District 2 – Masonry) is a deep slate hue in a killer velvet soft finish. Not fully matte, this can literally be a one-coater and THE most versatile colour of the entire collection. As it dries exceptionally quickly, you need to work fast, loading up your brush with plenty of polish in order to avoid any empty patches, although a second coat (as I applied here) eliminates any issues. A layer of base coat for prep, a layer of lacquer, and you’re out the door in seconds – perfect for those hurried moments! The following swatches all show a secondary photo with a layer of top coat applied, which really intensifies all the nuances that go into this shade.
in sunlight
in sunlight, top coat added
indoors
indoors, top coat added
with flash
with flash, top coat added
The only similar shade and finish in my arsenal, is OPI’s ‘Suzi Skis in the Pyrenees Suede’, and naturally I had to compare it to ‘Stone Cold’. The two are exceptionally close in both colour and format, with the differences being almost negligible and not overtly visible; I noticed that the OPI was slightly more sheer and had a thinner flowing formula with the base tone being a touch more silvery-leaning. The following swatches are all: index & ring fingers – OPI, middle & pinkie fingers – China Glaze.
‘Stone Cold’ – middle & pinkie fingers
with top coat added
‘Stone Cold’ layered with a coat of ‘Luxe and Lush’ on top: (even though it may look busy, the contrasting textures all seem to work)
in sunlight
closeup
indoors
with flash
‘Luxe and Lush’ (representing District 1 – Luxury) is a paradox: beautiful to behold, a trial to apply – very true to what ‘The Capitol’ stands for, indeed. This almost glue-like formula, took some manipulation to get the hang of; instead of applying it like you would regular polish, it works easier if you drop a glob of it near the cuticle line, then literally pat/dab it into place. The irregularly shaped mylar pieces it holds have the look of shards of glass, and give an incredibly reflective crystalline look to the nails. The slightly milky base is at once forgiving in nature (no visible irregularities that need cleaning up), and while care needs to be taken to avoid any overhang at the tip, it’s actually quite easy to place the flecks where you want to. The finish is rather glossy, surprisingly so, but mixing the bottle contents is basically impossible due to its rather thick format. One warning is that this does leave behind a rather rough surface, so do NOT skip the top coat. The following swatches are all with three coats, as thinly as I could apply them.
in sunlight
in sunlight/alternate angle
closeup
backlit
indoors
with flash
As Katniss is being prepared for an interview, she is given a unique “flame” nail look, to remind the populace of her spectacular fiery introduction to the Games where she became known as “the girl on fire”, and in tribute (*double entendre fully intended*) I decided to create my version of this mani. I began with ‘Smoke and Ashes’ as the background/base colour (in honour of Katniss’ District 12), then focusing only on the tips of the nails, I applied a scant amount of ‘Riveting’ – which also happens to be the trait that Katniss embodies throughout this entire story, ending with a few dabs of ‘Electrify’ on top – in homage of her electrifying debut. Top coat sealed everything in and brought out the sparkle of each shade.
with flash
Final thoughts: From the earliest promotional photos, I had a fairly good idea that I would love the shades of this collection, as they all seemed to have a unique factor to them that seemed right up my alley. The ‘Luxe and Lush’ top coat is a strange animal, to be sure, but one that can either totally enhance a base colour (case in point: ‘Mahogany Magic’) or completely obliterate it (the disastrous combo with ‘Hook and Line’). The finishes and textures are varied enough to keep this collection interesting, and I love how such obvious thought and care went into the creation of each colour, keeping it all in sync with the concept of the movie that inspired it all. My favourites here, are undeniably ‘Smoke and Ashes’, ‘Agro’, ‘Harvest Moon’, Stone Cold’, and ‘Riveting’, with ‘Fast Track’, ‘Fois Gras’ and ‘Mahogany Magic’ a close second. This is definitely a much-anticipated collection, and with good reason … not to mention China Glaze’s incredibly affordable price point to sweeten the deal.
“May these colours be ever in your favour”…!
PS: I humbly congratulate you for having made it through to the very end of my epic post!
*Disclaimer: Product samples provided by the company/PR for my unbiased consideration
*Trailer courtesy of Youtube
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Looove this post! I actually ordered the entire collection yesterday on a whim, because I wanted some colors I’d never used before (and I recently read the books). Just today I decided to look at swatches for it, and yours was the first to pop up, and you definitely made me glad for my purchase!
I already know I’m going to love Smoke & Ashes because black is my go-to color. Stone Cold looks absolutely amazing and is the one I’m probably most excited for. I was super iffy about Dress Me Up and Fast Track, but now I see how gorgeous FT is! I’m a bit more sold on DMU, but I think my mom may like it more than I do.
Glad you liked my swatches, Angie! Congrats on ordering the entire collection – they all offer something unique and fabulous, and I’m fairly certain you won’t regret any of them! Stone Cold is awesome – love it! And while Smoke & Ashes isn’t in your face with its glitter, it looks incredible on – better than the photos show, that’s for sure! Dress Me Up can be a touch difficult for some skin tones to carry off, but even if you don’t ultimately care for it, at least you can give it a good home with your mom!
DUDDEEE! This is amazing! I really want to purchase these but I’m unsure about wheather China Glaze sell there products in the UK. Do you know if they do sell in the UK or if there is any website I can purchase them all from without spending a fortune? Thanks:)x
I loved the Girl on Fire nails too!
Wow…thanks, Sharlee! Off the top of my head, I don’t which website would be best suited for you, but I’ll make some inquiries and hopefully get back to you with something!
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I LOVE the mani at the end, I’m going to have to buy those colors you’ve used there! I’m going to have to disagree about “Hook and Line” though, I think the finish is fantastic, visible brush strokes and all.
Thanks, Eva…so glad you liked it! As to ‘Hook and Line’, I absolutely love the colour – so unique & I wouldn’t even mind the visible brush strokes as much either, except it was a bit finicky in application, but if you’re not in a rush & are willing to take some time with it, it is worth it! Have fun creating your “Girls on Fire” mani!
Oh. My. Gosh. This is gorgeous. I love the mani at the end. Just curious, where did you purchase the collection?
Thank you so very much…glad you liked it! I’m so pleased with the way it turned out as well! The collection was actually sent to me for review!
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The nail design you did was really pretty.
I tried recreating it… but it wasn’t as pretty (because I didn’t use the Hunger Games collection… just what I had.)
I’m planning to get some of the colors!
Thank you so much, Anna….I’m so glad you liked my creation! Even though you say your version didn’t come out exactly like mine, just the fact alone that you wished to recreate it, honours me! I’m betting it was a lot nicer than you give yourself credit for – and as it’s nail polish (and not permanent!), you can always try it again – the whole point is to have fun with it!
How on earth can you make, even the ones I wasn’t interested in, into total lemmings for not getting them!? Amazing. Love the whole post. And the tribute nails? LOVELY! I’m going to try my hands at that look but I’m not sure how you got Riveting to look like flames, every time I try to do something like that on my nails it comes off in a big blob.
Thank you so much, Carolina…I really appreciate your warmth! As to the ‘Girl on Fire’ mani I created, the trick is in using tiny amounts of the decorative lacquers; I literally placed just 2 measly dots of colour on the tips, then working quickly and using the smallest, narrowest artist brush I own, I dragged it lightly up in a flame-like pattern. I’ve been asked to prepare a tutorial, but I just cut my nails short so I’m guessing the effect won’t be the same! I’ll think about it!
Thanks for responding so quickly! well that sounds a lot simpler than what I was doing, which was coloring in the tip than trying to drag the brush up with as little polish as I could but obviously the brush is too thick for this. Will give this a try. Again thanks so much for all the work you put into your blog, it’s an act of love and it shows.
My pleasure! What can I say? I’m a total nut for anything beauty-related!
Thank you so much for the swatches and listing the corresponding Districts!! I’ve got Riveting on, topped with Luxe and Lush. Did it after seeing it on here. So gorgeous together, I’m getting so many compliment! Thanks again!!
Wow…you’re so welcome, Nicole! I’m really glad you enjoyed the post & that it inspired you to try the look as well! I’m sure it must look fabulous! (It’s such a crazy unique combination – I’m not surprised at the compliments you must be getting!) Enjoy!
As someone who found out about Hunger Games through China Glaze, then went out and bought the book and read it as the plot was so incredibly interesting, I am so impressed by this review! Thank you for ALL of your efforts! The manicure in honour of Katniss is AMAZING. Can’t wait for the movie!!
Thank you for such kind words, Emily…I really appreciate it! I can’t wait to see the movie too (it better be as good as the book!)
EUGENIA. I am floored. FLOORED by your swatches! The Hunger Games trilogy is one of my favorites on this earth and I have been looking forward to this collection by China Glaze for seems like an eternity. Your swatches go above and beyond anything I could have imagined. And I LOVE your ‘Girl On Fire’ look. And you keep saying that you don’t do nail art, pissshaw! You just did and I adore it!
I’ve got this collection lined up on my swatching table and looking at your glorious photos has motivated me to get them up on the blog asap! *muuaaah!*
Thanks Rie, my friend….telling me you liked my “nail art”, well, that’s quite the compliment!
I really enjoyed the book as well as the nail polish collection, and I’m looking forward to 2 things now: 1) reading the other two books and 2) your post on this collection! Something tells me that your pictures will have me loving these babies all over again!! GET IT UP ON THE BLOG STAT!!!
OMGoodness
What incredible shots!!
I bought my daughter the 4 pack for her b’day Wednesday before premiere… now I hope I have the colors to do all I want…
But could they make these any pricier :0(
Thanks so much and Happy Birthday for your daughter! How wonderful for her that you picked up some of these shades; I’m sure she (and you!) will have a blast creating all kinds of looks with them!
How do you do it?!?! I can look at so many posts of a collection and think I can pass on most of it, then you decide to show off your photos of said collection and all of a sudden I need most of them (if not all of them)! I want to be angry but I am just too much in love with the polishes you show us! lol. Favourites are definitely Agro, Fast Track and Riveting. Can I leave it at just these?… Probably not!
Thanks once again for your lovely photos! Oh and now you’ve made me want to go and read the book too
Lol … thanks so much, Anneke! I’m glad that you found my post interesting enough to have you give these lacquers a second look! Sometimes, all it takes is someone else’s perspective to see what you may have been missing, and I’d hate for you to pass these by only to regret it later! And yes…do go and read the book! I enjoyed it immensely and am already planning on picking up the rest of the series!
Awesome post!
I love the Hunger Games novels as well! I work at a movie theater so I’m really excited to see people come see it and see if I can spy some CG Capitol Colors as well as do my own tribute mani for the midnight premiere that I will no doubt be working 
I love your girl on fire mani & it was very similar to the idea I had so it’s nice to see it executed so well. 
Thanks so much, Katelyn and lucky you that will get to see the very first showing!!! Keep a look out for those Huger Games-inspired manis and feel free to send me pics of your own “girl on fire” look!
That flame mani? I may have passed out a little from the awesomeness. No jokes.
Lol….sure hope you’re ok now, Maggie! Thanks, my friend…so glad you liked
I’m really happy with the way it turned out too!! (nail art is so NOT my forte)
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Now THIS is what I call epic!
I’m afraid that I have no interest in the Hunger Games (books nor movie) and the colours aren’t calling my name, either. (I’ve entered an unsual bright stage) But I appreciated your post just the same because… LOOK AT THIS POST, WOMAN!
And I adore the personal touch at the end with the nail art. Just sublime! You’ve outdone yourself YET AGAIN.
Lol….thanks, Liz! I was like you; I not only had zero interest in The Hunger Games, but I had NO idea what it was! Then, I saw some early promo photos, and I admit that I was instantly drawn to a few of the shades. When I saw them in person, I had high hopes for a few more – and overall, I was not disappointed. But it didn’t feel right for me, still not knowing what this was about so I went and bought the book and with great skepticism, I began to read. And couldn’t put it down, lol! All this to say “don’t judge a book by its nail polish collection”!!!
Even though these don’t float your boat (and by the way, I totally get what you mean about having a bright moment…been feeling that myself!), I’m so happy that you managed to slog through it (!) and that you liked my “flame” mani! Hugs!
Gorgeous tribute mani!! Love, love, love it Eugenia
As always, I’m going through your pictures and realize that the shades I *thought* I wanted, are now left in the dust – now I’m eyeballing Dress Me Up instead of Fast Track! How do you always do this?? LOL
Fantastic post, you certainly took your time and it is well appreciated! Thank you my dear!!
Thanks a million, my friend! So glad you liked!! I think that even though Fast Track is a stunning shade, unless you’re going for a neutral/mannequin hands look, it may not stand out enough. I can totally see you rocking Dress Me Up, though….would so suit your skin tone! I’m really happy you enjoyed the post, Toya!!
OH. EM. GEE. EUGENIA.
Your flame nails at the end are so gorgeous! And you always make me want polishes that I barely glanced at before
Fast Track, Riveting, Harvest Moon, and the matte black…all gorgeous. And that chunky top coat is marvelous! I probably won’t pick any of these up, but they are so lovely to look at.
Thank you, so, so much, Larie! I loved that flame look too – and I’m not even into nail art, lol! As to Harvest Moon, I have been waiting for someone to do a true copper, and this is about as true as it gets! I know that some people have complained about Luxe and Lush being hard to work with, but I’ve seriously never seen anything like it and I believe it can change up any existing polish in one’s collection. Personally, a matte shade like Stone Cold should be part of everyone’s stash; it’s the best thing to reach for if you only have 5 minutes to spare & want to colour your nails! Glad you enjoyed it all!
Fast Track is my favorite of the bunch and it looks amazing on you!!! I love that last mani also. Great swatches as always ;0).
Thanks, MariJo…..you’re such a sweetheart! I can totally see Fast Track complimenting your skin tone!
I bought a few of the Hunger Games colors, along with Luxe and Lush. I have no desire to wear Luxe and Lush with any of the collection’s colors, but I had it over Orly’s Au Champagne last week, and it was amazing looking! I am going to try Smoke and Ashes for next week’s manicure, I had to try out my new China Glaze magnetic polishes first
That sounds like it must have looked amazing! You’ll really enjoy the mysterious qualities that Smoke and Ashes brings to a look – I love that one! Enjoy your new magnetic polishes – feel free to end me pics!
First of all, thanks for the amazing post!! Your pictures are beautiful and perfect as always!!
I was waiting this collection and for me was a disappointment… I find the colors would make a nice fall collection, but in spring? Maybe it’s because they’re not the kind of colors I usually wear.
And I wanted to like the collection so much, since I love the books!
I need to see them in person, I think i’m going to buy Dress me up and Luxe & Lush
And you’re flame nail art it’s absolutely stunning!! I can see Katniss wearing this look in the opening ceremony!
Thank you, Mara my friend! I appreciate the love….and that you enjoyed my Katniss mani! I admit they’re an unusual bunch of shades for a spring collection, but since they’re meant to accompany the movie, it makes more sense to think of the colours with that in mind (I think!) I agree that they definitely need to be seen in person, as sometimes that helps us decide if a colour is really our style or not. As to the books, I’ll be going back to get the other 2….loved the first one!
My favorites are Stone cold and Riveting! They are gorgeous!
you did an amazing post and it was great to read and look at your lovely pictures! Thank you~
And I must say I’m in LOVE with your last mani! It reflects Capnis so well! :p
Thank you so much! I love Stone Cold as well, and Riveting….well, it’s exactly that: riveting!! China Glaze really nailed it with that one, that’s for sure! I’m so happy you enjoyed the post and my “fire” mani!! Hugs!
I tip my hat to you dear Eugenia for this formidable (in every possible meaning) post. These are not the first swatches I see from this collection, but it’s actually the first time the names are explained (I haven’t read the books, I’m right in the middle of GRR Martin’s Song of Ice and Fire and then I have four or five other books waiting that I got for Christmas – including a long overdue masterpiece, Whitman’s Leaves of Grass). It sounds silly, but I like to “understand” collections and it was frustrating not to be able to with that one. That’s the first point. The second point is that in spite of having already seen swatches of this collection, I’m once more amazed at your work, your pictures are incredible and they really give a complete idea of a polish, it’s fantastic.
Now to the colours themselves. I admit that such shades as Electrify and Harvest Moon are impressive and in a perfect world where I could earn a decent living from my skills, I would probably go for them, but if I have to choose the shades I’m naturally drawn to, I go for Foie Gras and Fast Track, with an interrogation for Dress Me Up: this kind of faded pink (à la “Gouda Gouda Two Shoes” from OPI HOlland) always draw my eyes but I usually end up not liking it on me. Stone Cold is beautiful, but as a happy owner of OPI’s Suzi Ski Suede, I really don’t need it.
All this being rhethorical since I’m still toiling through the no-buy desert (if you ever know people looking for a English/German to French translator, you can send them my way, and then I might be able to buy some new pretties!!).
Well, that was a long comment, quite a match for the long post!
Hahaha! Quite a match for the long post, indeed…but so very eloquently put! I’m like you, and when I chance upon a new “themed” collection, I usually need to understand the connection. When I heard/saw the first promos for this one, I was literally sitting there, looking at my screen with my mind a total blank: nothing made sense and that drove me crazy! I’m so glad that you enjoyed my swatches and while it was rather time-consuming putting it all together, I thoroughly enjoyed every minute; if there are people like me out there, then it’s always more helpful when you see more than one angle of a colour so you really know what you’re getting before you buy. As to the translator, first of all, congratulations of being so linguistically talented, and if I hear any whispers, you’ll be the first to know!
The only thing that made me want to own all of them is their connection with the district, but alas, I have to care about my wallet and so I only buy the ones I really likes.
I bought smoke and ashes,riveting, mahogany, electrify, harvest moon.
I must admit I bought harvest moon for the name only (games LOL), it has some resemblance with OPI Take The Stage from Burlesque collection, I just hope they have a slight difference LOL
Well, buying 5 out of 12 isn’t too shabby, that’s for sure! Love your choices and I don’t blame you for falling for Harvest Moon (it’s so gorgeous!). I don’t have the OPI version you mentioned, so unfortunately, I couldn’t say whether they’re close or not…perhaps some online swatches might help!
Hehe made it through your post! Gorgeous swatches, as always E <3 I like Harvest Moon, Fast Track, and Riveting the most of the collection. I wish China Glaze's were easier to get though – I only have 3 in my collection, but I do love them so (Re-fresh Mint, Passion, & Haunting)
Luxe & Lushe is interesting…I'd have to see it in person before I could say I love it though.
Thank you so much! And glad to hear you made it through all the way, lol! I would have thought that you’d have easier access than I do in finding China Glaze lacquers…but perhaps you can email the company and ask where the closest retailer to you might be? Just a thought…! As to Luxe and Lush, if you get the chance, do check this one out personally…it may be a bit finicky, but so incredibly unique in a world where we’ve seen just about every shade and permutation of lacquer!
It reminds me of Diamond Drops by Color Club..it has the same shard-like experience! Yeah you know, I live in NYC so I thought getting ANY polish would be remarkably easy. As it is…its super difficult to even find drugstore brands when they release. There’s like 1 Zoya retailer and no Sally’s Beauty or Ulta or anything like that in sight. LAME! But that’s smart, I’ll have to inquire about nearest retailers. Thanks <3
I’ll do you one better: my blogging buddy Amy over at Gotham Polish (www.gothampolish.blogspot.com) also lives in NYC and has compiled several listings of nail polish retailers in the city…if you can’t find it on her blog, send her an email and she’ll be sure to direct you to the right source! Tell her I said “hi!”
Ahhh, why are you so amazing? I’m going to add her to my Bloglovin right now and go check it out. And pass along your message
Thank you!
Hahaha! You’re welcome!
First of all *gasp* this is thorough and absolutely epic, but it the most perfect sort of way. And the funny thing is just yesterday I was thinking about checking this collection out. I think that may happen tomorrow. I like Dress Me Up, but had heard that this collection was a bit thicker. I have Luxe and Lush but I’ve still not figured out how to use it well.
I love your nail art. Fire and flames, with charcoal beneath. It has a dramatic impact, very lovely my friend.
Thank you, my dear friend…I’m so happy you enjoyed this monster and that you approve of my creation at the end! I can’t say that I found this collection thicker than other China Glaze polishes, although I’ve heard some people may have had bottles from funky batches which may account for any issues. As to Luxe and Lush, it takes some getting used to, but it can also be quite a bit of fun to play around with – you can apply it all over, just a little dab here, near the cuticle line only or closer to the tips….the sky’s the limit!
I got a chance to see some of the color today, and I really like them. I was going to pick a couple up, but there was some sort of gift with purchase and they were out of it. So I thought I would wait till it came in and I can get the gift. As if I really need extra polishes, I am a silly gal…
Hahaha….makeup is all about being silly + loving it! No need for excuses! I like the idea of you waiting for a gift with the purchase, but what if by the time the gift comes in, the shades you want are out? Maybe if the store sets aside the shades you want and keeps them for you, then you can be assured that you won’t lose out! Just a thought…..
I thought about that. It’s sort of a gamble I suppose. They said I could buy it and return it and buy it again. But I figured I would take the chance till Wednesday when they had it in. So just two more days. They didn’t have Foie Gras and I was really interested in that one.
Ah…I see….well, as they say in the movie itself “may the odds be ever in your favour”….!!!
I think I’m all over the place too. I was looking at the bushel of peachy shades coming in and thought I would look at those too. I think my mind is on coral also.
It’s spring around the corner, D…of course your mind is all over the place and on corals! It’s only natural, my friend! Embrace the brights!
Gotta be honest–I’m a bit of a downer on this collection. Of course, for me, that means that I only got 3 and have my eye on 1-2 others, but I feel bad saying it since it was SO hotly anticipated. It’s not that it’s a BAD collection, it just doesn’t reach out and grab me, plus I haven’t read and don’t have any interest in the books (sorry! Please don’t throw things!). That said, I made a China Glaze haul as a birthday present to myself (I got all of the Magnetix and half of the Prismatics, which you simply must get if you can, amazing!), and as a part of that I picked up Smoke and Ashes and Electrify. Then a few days ago I picked up Riveting after seeing a swatch on Fashion Polish and deciding that I simply MUST own it. I’m very pleased with the ones I picked up; Electrify and Riveting are simply striking and Smoke and Ashes is so lovely and mysterious. I also love Fast Track, but I have a cousin in Essence Irreplaceable and so I don’t feel a pressing need to acquire it right now. I also wouldn’t mind Luxe and Lush although I feel like I already have more layering polishes than I know what to do with. Perhaps one day we’ll meet again on the clearance rack!
Julia, thanks for your honesty, and don’t feel bad – I’m glad you were able to find the shades that called out to you and that you’ll get to enjoy them. I have to confess that a collection getting too much hype is not always a good thing; people begin building all these expectations that can never possibly be ALL met, and so when the product finally arrives, we tend to feel somewhat let down. I’m afraid that some of that’s been happening here with this collection, and it makes me sad as there are colours here that are really, really good. ‘Harvest Moon’, for example, has got to be one of the most perfect, if not THE perfect copper foil shade, and yet, it’s been overshadowed for the most part. ‘Mahogany Magic’ is a shade of brown unlike any I’ve come across…and you already know how extensive my collection of lacquers is….oh well, there’s always the clearance bin!!
Quite so…I won’t be surprised at all if in 6 months I look at these polishes again and want half of the ones that are left! But right now, after seeing bottle promos EVERYwhere and hearing so much about it, and with Spring around the corner (it was nearly 70˚ F today!), I suppose I feel a bit burned out. Oh well, with 4 collections in two months and 17+ acquisitions to my stash, China Glaze and I are by no means broken up yet
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Isn’t it always that way? We’ve had unseasonably warm weather here as well – I’m not complaining! You did quite well with your latest acquisitions, didn’t you?! I say go and enjoy all these new beauties — there will always be a new shade/collection around the corner!
Love your swatches, but that mani at the end is KILLER! Wow!
Thanks so much, Genie (love your name, by the way…lol!! Then again, I may be biased!) So glad you liked my take on the “fire nails”!
Loved every bite of this post! It is so thorough! I still have not found a pro-beauty supply in NJ that carries China Glaze, but when I do these will be mine! I’m happy to hear you enjoyed them, since I’ve read some reviews that were sort of ‘ho hum’ about them…I think they look stellar! For some odd reason, “Dress Me Up” is really calling out to me, especially with Luxe & Lush on top! I love, love, love the ‘Girl On Fire’ look you created-pure perfection!
Thanks so much, Maribeth! Why am I not surprised that ‘Dress Me Up’ has your name all over it? You and your nudes….!!! I love it! I’m so glad that YOU liked my ‘Girl On Fire’ mani – don’t want to disappoint the layering queen, lol! Actually, I couldn’t stop looking at my nails after it was done, and you know how NOT a glitter person I am!
Such a perfect way for a non-glitter lover to wear glitter!
Haha! You’re so right….and you never told me how fun it can be!! Thanks, my friend!
Absolutely DIVINE pictures.
Awwwwww *blushing*….so glad you enjoyed!! Thank you!
Thank you for your gorgeous swatches. I am so happy that I made a great choice with ones I got. I ended up buying exactly the same ones that are your favorites. I can’t wait to use all of them.
Thanks, Lissette…and may I say, great minds think alike, lol! Have fun with your new beauties and enjoy!
Wow! Well done! I was ready to stand up and cheer at the end of your post. You did a fabulous job. So far I have “Riveting” and “Luxe and Lush” but after your beautiful photos I am lusting after each and every one.
Thank you so much, Aylene….and I’m thrilled you made it through to the very end, lol!! Love the shades you chose…just perfect for the upcoming warmer weather!
Love what you did with Smoke & Ashes and the Riveting in a drippy (in a good way) looking like a (oh crude – the name of this effect is escaping me – not ombre – but…? help me out here folks). I was not taken with this collection at first in part due to so much hype, the colors were not what I thought I wanted for this coming time of year, not a fan of this genera book/movie so that tie in meant nothing to me. I knew I wanted Riveting because it just looked amazing and I adore orange/reds esp that sparkle. I slowly got a few more and a couple more after that. Now I think the one I don’t have and don’t plan to get is Hook & Line because it just is in my stash in others and I don’t use it ever as is – too much bordering on frost for me. Thanks for discovering that the CG matte is so close to the older OPI Suzie Skis … I can see the differences in the 2 and would not want both since this is not a look that I tend to go for but once in a blue moon as is. I totally agree, Electrify is far too Christmas looking for me – it does look fab over Harvest Moon however as a base. Not a fan of Fois Gras only because it’s been done and done again and I have a ton like it in my stash. I did not think I could wear or would wear the Mahogany Magic, but it’s warming up on me. Probably will wear it come fall or then decide to donate it. I think CG got the right movie tie in for this line for a top seller – and I admire CG for not going with seasonal colors trying to make it sell with what is expected of this time of year. Goes to show as popular as this collection is, that all shades go if you like it – wear it any time of the year (except for maybe total Christmas colors). Over all, I am really jazzed about this collection. Kudos for you reading the book in prep for this review blog.
Woo-hoo…thanks for such a well thought-out reply! You make some great points and I like hearing that I’m not the only one who’s glad that China Glaze didn’t go the traditional route. I’m also glad that my swatches were able to help in some small way, and as to reading the book, let’s just say that I regret not picking up all 3 at the time…will be remedied shortly!
This post is incredible. Well done! I really enjoyed reading it. Plus the swatches are amazing.
I want more than half of the collection, it’s really gorgeous collection.
Thanks so much! I’m glad you liked my swatches and for the record, I’m not surprised that you like so many of this collection; they’re amazing!
AWESOME post Big Sis! Just gorgeous!! I only wanted 4 from this collections, but now thanks to you I want 6!!
Thanks, Lil Sis and should I say “yay” you like even more, or “sorry” for adding to the list? lol!! Glad you liked!
Oops, I meant “suede!” As in, matte.
Lol…I understood, not to worry!
It’s too bad about Hook and Line, the finish is just horrible. It could have been a shimmer or a sued, or even a blue!
I know! I wanted that one so badly to work out better, as I love the colour. Here’s the thing; by itself, it’s not so bad and to the naked eye, any brushstrokes you see here are not that visible, but it’s definitely not in the same category as some of the others, that’s for sure!