OPI – Gwen Stefani Collection, Textures

While the first half of this capsule collection consisted of more traditional creamier hues – albeit in a new ultra-glossy formula (previously reviewed here), the three lacquers shown here all offer more of a 3D experience with their varying finishes. Somehow, OPI has managed to perfectly capture the many sides of singer/songwriter/fashion designer/mom Gwen Stefani with these shades, at once unique, glam & just the right amount of edge.

Sophisticated glamour: another side of Gwen Stefani (source)

Love.Angel.Music.Baby. – a champagne gold hue with finely ground matching shimmer, in OPI’s new satin textured finish that feels exactly like buttery suede. Opacity was amazing for a shade this light, giving almost complete coverage by the 1st coat while falling in a totally self-levelling way. On me, this shade appears as more of an amped-up nude — and I’m 100% in love with the unique, almost ‘editorial’ tone it gave off. Note: the finish takes a few minutes to fully develop – but it’s so worth the wait. Coats applied: 2, no top coat (best worn without)

The last 2 swatches were done by first applying two coats of ‘I Sing in Color’ (previously reviewed here) and allowing it to dry completely. Using ‘Love.Angel.Music.Baby.’ to created the gilded tips, wipe off most of the polish against the neck of the bottle, then apply in an upwards motion from the nail tip – applying very little pressure. By turning the brush on its side, you can also feather it slightly higher up along the nail. Finish with top coat to form a protective and seamless finish.

OPI – Love.Angel.Music.Baby.

OPI – Love.Angel.Music.Baby. over I Sing in Color

4 In The Morning – a gunmetal hue with a pewter sheen, in OPI’s new semi-matte satin finish that has a slight overall rubberized look and bears an excellent flow to the formula, falling in a self-levelling way and leaving zero brush strokes behind. Non-staining upon removal, once again top coat would only ruin the unique tone of this lacquer. Sophisticated and futuristic at the same time, this is the perfect alternative to black. Coats applied: 2, no top coat

OPI – 4 In the Morning

In True Stefani Fashion – a clear base filled with holographic glitter in small & medium round shapes, along with larger square pieces to form an original composition. Best used for layering over other shades (especially darker hues for a stark contrast), but it can be also worn alone for a tinsel-like brilliance. Coats applied: 3 (thin), plus top coat

The last 2 swatches were created by first applying two coats of ‘4 In the Morning’ and allow it to dry well (at least 15 minutes). Place a large drop of ‘In True Stefani Fashion’ on a piece of foil and using the larger head of a double-ended dotting too, apply 3 rows of evenly spaced dots along the nail lengthwise. Using the fine head of the dotting tool, finish by placing dots in between using the finer head of the dotting tool – no top coat was used.

OPI- In True Stefani Fashion

OPI – In True Stefani Fashion

OPI – In True Stefani Fashion over 4 In the Morning

In my opinion, every single one of these lacquers is a winner; Love.Angel.Music.Baby. blew me away with its stealth “cool-ness”, like adding a matte top coat over a nude gold shade — but better. 4 In the Morning is the epitome of rocker-chic and even impressed my husband (he actually noticed the finish). Glitter is not usually my thing, but by indulging in a little simple nail art, I was able to turn In True Stefani Fashion into original holographic studs – love it!

I’ll hopefully be showing the last shade of this collection, Push and Shove – a brilliant chrome hue (sold as a set with Lay Down That Base) fairly soon – stay tuned!

The OPI Gwen Stefani Collection will be available in stores early January 2014. Find more information via website/twitter/facebook