OPI Designer Series Bold and Temptation – New Shades for 2011 (swatches & review)

Following in the footsteps of OPI’s Designer Series lacquers, the latest additions new for Fall 2011 in the lineup, are ‘DS Bold’ and ‘DS Temptation’ – two incredibly shimmery-laden shades, made all the more unique by the addition of diamond dust in the formula. As these are my very first OPI DS polishes, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but the numerous levels of glitter & shimmer were quite lovely to behold, most particularly when seen under full sunlight. The following swatches were all done using Seche Natural Base Coat.

‘DS Bold’ is somewhat of a paradox; appearing rather like cotton-candy pink glitter in the bottle, it surprised me by looking slightly coral hued on the nails – even the bottle photo (above) shows it have a slight tinge of orange in its base. The formula was interesting as well, managing to be both on the thin and thick side (strange, I know) but with an effortless application, leaving behind a smooth and level surface. The bonus was in how easy it was to remove, despite the fact that it’s chock full of glitter!

The following swatches are all with two coats of lacquer, and Revlon’s Quick Dry Top Coat.

Sunlight not only brings out the rosy side of this shade, but glints beautifully off the dainty pink glitter swirling within, appearing so chicly feminine.

This closeup view gives a clear indication of just how dense the glitter is in ‘DS Bold’, yet note how nice and flat is lays upon the nail.

When seen in indirect light, this shade now seems rather cool toned, while its carnation pink hue becomes limned with a silver halo.

Shaded light definitely pulls out any coral within this shade, and serves as a perfect backdrop to showcase its multitude of glitter.

A final view taken with flash not only reflects brilliantly off the glimmering pieces, but highlights the rosy diamond hue of ‘DS Bold’s’ base hue.

‘DS Temptation’ is nothing short of a regal purple stunner! Absolutely filled to the brim with purple and blue large glitter pieces, there was an interesting paradox to this shade as well, with a formula that while slightly thick and rather suspension-like, somehow managed to apply thinly while verging on the sheer side. Two coats gave fairly decent coverage, however I personally preferred the look of three coats, as it serves to truly bring out an almost iridescent effect at the finish. Once more, removal was quite painless and left zero staining behind.

The following swatches are with two coats of lacquer, and no top coat:

When viewed in full sun, the slight sheerness of this shade is clearly evident, while also managing to pull out the periwinkle tones of the base hue.

Seen at closer range, it now appears more densely coloured, helping the individual glitter pieces stand out from the base tone.

Interestingly enough, indirect light not only lends a cooler air to ‘DS Temptation’, but also adds an overall blue aura to this shade.

While shaded light lends warmth and more of a purple cast to this shade, you can still see how slightly translucent it remains with two coats.

A final view taken with flash, shows the beautiful indigo nature of the base shade and lends a fairy-like effect to the glitter.

The following swatches are with three coats of lacquer, and Revlon’s Quick Dry Top Coat.

With three coats applied, full sun serves to deepen this shade’s purple leanings, while a slight sheerness is still somewhat visible along the nail tips.

This closeup view emphasizes how rich the masses of glitter truly appears and how beautifully it is set off by the deep violet base hue.

With indirect light reflecting off the nail’s surface, a cooler tone emerges, with the glitter pieces now taking on a more magenta-like hue.

I love how shaded light lends an incredible depth of tone to ‘DS Temptation’, with the varying glitter casting an almost indigo ombré effect across the nails.

A final view taken with flash, shows of the spectacular brilliance that is ‘DS Temptation’, while still managing to appear cooly sophisticated as well.

Final thoughts: My first foray with OPI Designer Series polishes, has left me quite impressed. The formula on both was excellent, and considering the amounts of glitter involved, the finish was surprisingly smooth. While ‘DS Bold’ has an interesting overall tone, looking so utterly feminine as well as both blingy & demure, it is ‘DS Temptation’ that has completely captivated my eye, with its tapestry-like jewelled purple hue. With shades as intensely glimmering as these, you can safely skip any other adornment and let your nails do the talking!

In case you missed it, you can read all about my exciting Week 1 Birthday Giveaway here !