Best Top & Base Coat + Favorite Summer-To-Fall Nail Polish

Favorite Summer to Fall Nail Polish - The Hostess Notes

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Let’s talk nail polish. A lot of my friends go get their nails done at the salon (the latest trend is getting your nails “dipped” – which I’m told is similar to no-chip, but is supposed to lasts longer and doesn’t involve scraping off old nail-polish). Me? I’m more of a pedicure-only gal who does her manicures at home – I like to save the extra $40 and put it towards my clothing addiction. 😁

That said, I like my manicure to look like it’s been done by a professional. Which is why I’ve done my fair share of trials to find the perfect nail polish so my nails look shiny, strong and last for up to a week and a half (yes, it’s possible!).

The secret is finding a good base and top coat. I’ve tried my go-to brands like OPI (which takes forever to dry) and Essie (which makes my nail polish chip in a day), and even the store brands like Sally Hanson (doesn’t create enough bond in my opinion). I landed on the perfect combination last year when I used Orly Bonder for my base coat and Seche Vite for the top coat. One thing to know about the base coat though, is that unlike an OPI or Essie, you cannot wear this nail polish without a color on top because it has a sticky texture.

  • Essie Topless and Barefoot (I’m wearing this one in the photo above!): It’s a beigey-pink shade that looks great on all skin tones.
  • OPI Lisbon Wants Moor: I actually love this color year-round, but it works great for summer because again, it brings out your tan. It’s a very light blush pink that’s very subtle and classy. Perfect for my brides and bridesmaids!
  • Essie Toned Down: Muted gray color with some blue undertones – perfect neutral color for those looking for a darker palette.
  • OPI Suzi Needs A Loch Smith: Red polish is my go-to year round and after a summer filled with OPI Cajun Shrimp (my favorite color for the summer), this color is perfect for fall! It’s a burnt orange hue that is basically a toned down version of the Cajun Shrimp color.

I’ll share my favorite fall colors next month so stay tuned! Check out my last makeup routine post if you missed it. What are your go-to nail polish colors in August/September?

Xo,

Jo

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