Filed In: Nail Polish Comparisons

CHANEL Spring 2013 Le Vernis – Emprise, Fracas & Accessoire

January 21, 2013

CHANEL’s 2013 Printemps Precieux Collection does not disappoint, especially as far as the varnishes are concerned. The three shades shown (only #573 Accessoire is supposed to be permanent) have a fairly broad appeal with colours that should fit all tastes, from neutral fans to vampy lovers, but #571 Fracas steals the show with its flirty hue – I see this becoming my summertime staple!

All swatches are with base and top coat.

CHANEL #569 Emprise, #571 Fracas & #573 Accessoire

#569 Emprise – a muted ballerina slipper pink hue with pearly shimmer – clearly seen in the bottle, but appears less distinctly on the nail (in some angles & lighting, you can see an almost silver/pearly sheen). The medium density formula applies in a self-levelling way with a nice gloss at the finish. Coats applied: 3 (very thin)

CHANEL – #569 Emprise

Going through my collection of CHANEL polishes, revealed #543 Frisson (previously reviewed here) to be the closest to Emprise in base colour, but they are still quite different from each other.

index & pinkie fingers: #543 Frisson – sheerer, pale baby pink with pink, silver & gold finely ground glitter, less apricot in the base
middle & ring fingers: #569 Emprise

CHANEL – Emprise vs. Frisson

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#571 Fracas – a hot salmon pink shade with extremely fine gold, silver, & pink/magenta shimmer, that once more does not translate as clearly on the nail to what’s seen in the bottle, although it does add some overall depth and reflects well in certain lighting. Good density and flow, self-levelling and glossy, there’s a nice saturation of colour to this uniquely vivid hue. Coats applied: 2

CHANEL – #571 Fracas

The only CHANEL shade I own that bears a similar intensity to Fracas, is #537 Riviera (CHANEL Summer 2010 Collection), although the only thing in common between them is that they’re both vivid pink hues.

middle & pinkie fingers: #537 Riviera – sheerer, a hybrid jelly/crème formula with no shimmer, a truer pink with blueish undertones, cooler leaning
index & ring fingers: #571 Fracas

CHANEL – Fracas vs. Riviera

#573 Accessoire – an ultra rich & decadent deep burgundy hue with hints of brown in the base. An absolutely stellar formula, highly colour saturated, self-levelling and finishing with a high gloss, making top coat almost superfluous. LOVE this! Coats applied: 2

CHANEL – #573 Accessoire

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I initially thought that #573 Accessoire was almost identical to CHANEL’s Provocation (previously reviewed here), and while they both share a similar depth, there are differences as well.

index & pinkie fingers: Provocation – grape undertones, cooler leaning, amazing glossy shine, formula even more spectacular (if possible!)
middle & ring fingers: #573 Accessoire

CHANEL – Accessoire vs. Provocation

Final thoughts: With every CHANEL launch, I always assume that the nail lacquers couldn’t possibly top the ones that came before before, and yet I am always pleasantly surprised just the same. Along with a few other pieces that from the collection that came home with me, there was no way I would leave any of these behind, but as my comparisons show, the only shade that is truly unique amongst the three, is #571 Fracas. And with these CHANEL beauties, Spring has truly begun for me!
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I purchased these varnishes from The Bay (Canada) – feel free to me know what you’ll be indulging in with this collection!

Urban Outfitters ‘Silver Holo’ (and comparisons)

December 17, 2012

Nothing gives me a bigger rush, than finding something unique when I least expect it – unless that said item also happens to come at a ridiculously discounted price, as was the case while doing some [more] Christmas shopping at Urban Outfitters this past weekend and how I happened to spot the much talked-about ‘Silver Holo’. I swear that I wasn’t even looking for nail polish, but there it was … one lonely bottle (along with ‘Scorcher’, a sliver with multi-coloured glitter that was also the last of its kind, but that’s for another post). I may, or may not have broken out into a spontaneous happy dance …

Urban Outfitters Silver Holo – (CAD ~~$12.00~~ discounted to $7.00 15 ml/0.5 fl. oz) a vivid and pristine silver prismatic/holographic lacquer in a formula with absolutely perfect density – flowing neither too thick nor thin – able to provide amazing coverage by even the first coat, and displaying a strong linear pattern with the silvery-blue tones dominating. Applying in a self levelling way and leaving behind a glossy finish, I was surprised by how quickly it dried as well. Bonus: one of the best brushes I’ve come across – totally unexpected. Coats applied: 2 – no top coat.

Urban Outfitters – Silver Holo

Naturally, I needed to know how UO ‘Silver Holo’ compared to the other 2 similar polishes in my collection, GOSH ‘#549 Holographic Hero’ previously reviewed here, and Glitter Gal ‘Silver 3D/Holo’ previously reviewed here):

index finger: GOSH ‘Holographic Hero’ – thinner formula, holographic effect more scattered looking at 1st coat, greyer based, the dullest natural finish of the three, initial clouding of shade when top coat applied (clears up quickly, however)
middle & ring fingers: Urban Outfitters ‘Silver Holo’
pinkie: Glitter Gal ‘Silver 3D/Holo’ – the sheerest formula, but the glossiest natural finish of the three, holographic particles seem less dense than the others with the pink/orange tones dominating, unaffected by the addition of top coat

Urban Outfitters – Silver Holo & comparisons, no top coat

Urban Outfitters – Silver Holo & Comparisons with top coat

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Final thoughts: For those of you who know me, you’re aware that I have a rather extensive CHANEL lacquer collection and that I have been collecting them for over 25 years now, but there are 2 shades that slipped through my radar; one is ‘Jade’, and the other is ‘Holographic’. While I’m not that crushed about the former (ok, I am but that’s how it goes sometimes …), I believe I may have fulfilled the longing for the latter with Urban Outfitter’s ‘Silver Holo’. It’s THAT impressive. This varnish is everything I wanted a holographic shade to be – and then some, and considering the price, makes it the deal of 2012 for me. If you have access to an UO store, then this is so worth hunting down … trust me!
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*Disclaimer: some product samples provided by the company/PR for my unbiased consideration
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GOSH – Holographic Hero (swatches, Comparison & review)

December 4, 2012

I never really understood what it was exactly about holographic lacquers that appeared to incite such a frenzied reaction amongst nail polish aficionados – until I held that first prismatic bottle in my hands (seen here). Then, I stared. And stared some more. Bearing an almost 3-dimensional look, these lacquers are the stuff that myths are created out of – with sightings of them equally legendary.

When I learned that GOSH would be reissuing their highly praised version (and equally condemned – but more on that later on), I was thrilled to come across this unicorn while running errands at my local Pharmaprix (Shopper’s Drug Mart for the rest of Canada), which trip also saw me picking up GOSH’s ‘Galaxy’ (previously reviewed here). Cradling this precious bottle as though it were a newborn, I rushed home with my prize … and prayed to the nail varnish Gods that I wouldn’t be let down, pumped up by so much hype. Read on, my beauties …

#549 Holographic Hero (CAD $7.99 8 ml/0.3 fl.oz) – is basically a silver micro-shimmer base with white leanings, overlain by prismatic particles for that linear holographic effect. The formula is unbelievable; a self-levelling very easy flow with a good balance of being thick enough to cover well by the first coat – no streaking or bald patches, and thin enough to spread out easily without turning runny. While 2 coats will give good coverage, it’s at 3 coats where this baby really comes to life. As it winds down to a satin finish, top coat is essential to bring out its brilliance. Coats applied: 3 (thin) over base coat & finished with top coat.
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The base colour is a strong platinum hue with some pale grey undertones and the holographic effect is one that’s known as “linear”, as opposed to the more scattered type seen in other similar lacquers. Starting with a regular base coat, I then applied 3 thin coats of ‘Holographic Hero’, waiting at least 2 minutes between layers to avoid any potential brush strokes and dragging issues. Even through the satin finish, I was stunned to see its prismatic flashes; when I applied the top coat, the nail surface seemed initially clouded over, but that soon cleared up to enhance every facet of this beauty. Removal was effortless, leaving no residue behind.

*I’ve heard that this shade has basically a wear life span of 1-day, but I haven’t put that to the test – YET. Will update when I do.

GOSH ‘Holographic Hero’

The only other similar varnish I own to ‘Holographic Hero’ is Glitter Gal’s ‘Silver’, and here’s how they compared:

index and pinkie fingers – Glitter Gal ‘Silver’:

a much thinner formula that gives decent coverage by the 3rd coat, but would only have the same density of tone if layered over a solid base first
more pronounced silvery undertone
wider linear bands
prismatic particles seem slightly larger & a touch more vivid
colour rings seem reversed
natural glossy finish

middle & ring fingers – GOSH ‘Holographic Hero’

GOSH ‘Holographic Hero’ vs Glitter Gal ‘Silver’

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Final thoughts: Not much to add that isn’t obvious from the photos; all the talk about this polish is well deserved. That being said, the story was that when GOSH originally launched this shade, it was snapped up & sold out in a blink, but then people began complaining of its less than stellar wear – which in turn led to it being pulled from production. At that point, those who missed out on it, then began clamouring for a bottle and it seems that GOSH decided to comply – albeit with a new & improved formula (which I can’t vouch for, sadly, as I don’t have the original). Seen in person, I can guarantee that the effect is even more impressive, as your eyes try to process all the shifting colours: surreal. I also believe that this type of lacquer has a more sophisticated appeal, able to be easily worn by all age groups – unlike glitter varnishes that can appear too “young”, while its ease of application & removal, make it a total winner for me. With a price point that seems ridiculously low, you have no excuse not to pick up ‘Holographic Hero’ … unless it’s already disappeared, that is.
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*Disclaimer: Some product samples provided by the company/PR for my unbiased consideration

Estée Lauder Pure Color Nail Lacquer in Viper (swatches, comparison & review)

November 5, 2012

Viper — the very name bears a certain seductively sinister sex appeal, and while I don’t indulge in many Estée Lauder products, I knew beyond a shadow of a doubt, that this was a shade I had to acquire. Easier said than done, however, as this shade was not only sold out at all US counters I went to this past summer, but upon arriving back home, all sales agents I asked here looked at me like I was speaking gibberish when I inquired. I was even assured by one pseudo-genius that this shade was a US exclusive ONLY and that I would NEVER find it here. Until I walked into Holt’s 2 minutes later … and picked it up. Whatever … the end result is that I did managed to get it, right?

Viper (label)

Viper (CAD $25.00 limited edition) – is sumptuous, luxurious, malevolent, decadent, and totally oozes a brooding sensuality. Yes, a bottle of nail polish can do all that – trust me on this. The first coat applied somewhat sheer(ish), showing a charcoal-esque pine green base, with the second coat bringing forth this beauty’s true colour: a blackened forest/viridian green hue filled with ultra-fine emerald shimmer, although it does tend to look more ebony indoors. The formula is in that jelly/crème hybrid format that I’m really coming to love – the flow of a crème but with the high gloss and elasticity of a jelly, as it applies in a completely self-levelling way and ends with a ridiculously glassy finish. The square-shaped heavy glass bottle might look a little chunky, but actually serves to line up amazingly well for storage purposes, although it’s visually so beautiful that you will definitely want this to be out & admired. Bonus: absolutely no staining upon removal. Coats applied: 3 (thin)

Viper (sunlight)

Viper (shaded light)

Viper (flash)

Even though I have a few deep green shades in my collection that I could have compared ‘Viper’ to, something about its application and deep green tone completely reminded me of another legendary shade: the unicorn-elusive and limited edition ‘Zulu’ from NARS, which I was very happy to have picked up when it was re-released in the fall of 2010. Here’s how ‘Zulu’ compared to ‘Viper’ (both fabulous names, by the way):

required 3 coats to reach the same opacity
a thinner and sheerer formula
first coat shows a much brighter green tone
no shimmer
slight translucency and more jelly-like qualities
exceptionally glossy (a glass like finish) – makes application of top coat almost redundant
non-staining as well

Overall, I’d say the two while bearing an almost identical base tone, are also quite different from each other due to ‘Viper’s’ shimmer, and worth owning both.

Viper vs Zulu (sunlight)

Viper vs Zulu (indirect light)

Viper vs Zulu (flash)

Final thoughts: When attempting to track down cosmetic products, perseverance pays off, as well as having some basic knowledge of the item you’re trying to find. Case in point, not always taking a sales agent’s word on something – very happy I didn’t. With the amount of nail varnish choices one faces today, it might be hard to make a case for one shade over another, so it comes down to personal preferences; I love how sophisticated yet totally “dark” and edgy ‘Viper’ is and its deep green tone helps it stand out from other trendy colours. That, and a formula that’s to die for. And the name … makes me feel so dangerous …

CHANEL – Le Vernis #637 Malice, Holiday 2012 (swatches, comparison & review)

October 29, 2012

Even though I eagerly anticipate every single one of CHANEL’s cosmetic collections from the moment the first promotional images start circulating, there’s something extra special about their holiday releases. New for 2012 is the limited edition nail lacquer in #637 Malice, a shade that literally oozes seductive allure and sophisticated glamour … and the only ornamentation your hands will need this season.

CHANEL #637 Malice

#637 Malice – one word: PERFECTION. This deep burgundy wine hue bears an ultra-fine blood red and magenta hued shimmer at its core that appears as an inner fiery glow along the center of the nails, framed by slightly darkened edges. Superbly flowing and applying in a completely self-levelling manner, the saturation of pigment is so dense that you almost don’t need a second coat, but it does help to add a beautiful richness of colour. The gloss at the finish is quite intense, almost “wet-looking” and really enhances every gorgeous ruby facet. Bonus: completely non-staining upon removal. Coats applied: 2 (along with base and top coat)
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in sunlight

in sunlight/alternate

macro

shaded light

with flash

Searching through my collection of varnishes for a match to ‘Malice’, yielded only one possible contender: Deborah Lippmann’s ‘Dark Fantasy’ (review forthcoming), a limited edition release from spring 2012, and shown on my index & pinkie fingers in the following swatches. How it compared:

much sheerer
base colour several tones lighter
shimmer seems sparser & slightly larger, making it appear more prevalent next to that of ‘Malice’
an almost imperceptible duo chrome shift in some lights
needed 3 coats to achieve the same colour density as ‘Malice’, although 2 coats gives good coverage as well
excellent gloss, but not as brilliant
non-staining upon removal as well

in sunlight

shaded light

with flash

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Final thoughts: If you are a CHANEL collector like me, then you really cannot afford to skip ‘Malice’; to say that I am mesmerized by this shade, would be a gross understatment: I LOVE IT! From this incredibly rich jewel-like tone, the stellar formula, and its super-charged shine, this is THE shade of the season, in my humble opinion. Taking red to a whole new level by the blackened undertones and crushed shimmer this shade holds, has given it a unique cast and definitely sets it apart from the pack – and let’s face it, we all want to stand out every now & then, right?
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I’m already planning on a backup .. or two … that should say it all.