Minting it Up

What would a summer be without a new nail polish? It just wouldn’t be complete, right?  Well, fear not. On one of my many Ulta shopping trips (really, I should be banned!) I spotted a shade of nail polish I just had to have. I should preface this by saying that I went into Ulta to pick-up one item (Stila’s smudge stick eyeliner in Lionfish, to be precise, a coppery shade that completes my look), and not in the market for another polish.

But it was love at first sight. Unlike the usual question I find myself pondering when I see a nice color (do I already have this shade?), I instantly knew the answer. Not only did I lack this color, but it didn’t resemble anything I already had in my line-up. Corals and peaches are a favorite summertime trend for me. I probably own about five coral colors that I can only distinguish by the witty OPI name underneath. So buying a pastel polish, in a hue that you wouldn’t naturally find in nature, was a bit outside my comfort zone.

Whim’s Mojito Mint lived up to my expectations, although at first it was looking a little dicey. As you may know from previous posts, I have been a loyal OPI polish wearer for years. I love their colors, the finish, and the durability. When it comes to trying a new brand I am always hesitant, and one that costs $10 for what looks like a minuscule amount of product is usually a deal-breaker. Fortunately, the color, and the fact that it is “Five Free” (does not contain DBP, Toluene, Formaldehyde, Camphor, and Formaldehyde Resin), enticed me enough to give it a try. But the proof is in the polish! How does it go on? And, how does it wear? Well, here is where that dicey comment comes into play. When I first began applying the polish it went on thin and watery. I was afraid that the pretty color wouldn’t come through on my nails. But after a slightly longer drying time between coats, and a second application, which went on smoother than the first, the polish looked as good on my nails as it did in the bottle. And after a week of wear, complete with a trip to New York City and lots of time typing away at the computer, I’m happy to report that the polish has good staying power. No chips to date!

I guess the moral of the story here is: don’t judge a polish after one coat! In all seriousness, I’m happy I splurged a bit and found a beautiful color (and brand!) that I will probably be wearing all summer long. The color is light, refreshing, and screams summer. As best as a nail polish can!