With the launch of Chanel's Black Satin nail enamel, polish isn't as simple as choosing Essie Ballet Slippers or a classic red anymore. Chanel Black Satin--a deep black with subtle flecks of silver--would be nothing, however, if the whole dark nail trend hadn't exploded over the past year. Why is this relevant to fashion? Because nail color has become increasingly important as a vehicle of self-expression, just like clothing. It sounds silly, but nails--whether they are long and artificial, or short and well-groomed--are as essential an accessory as a handbag to many people. They reveal (or conceal) characteristics about ourselves that speak volumes to the world. Nails, as it would seem, have become yet another surface upon which to make our mark, to indicate whether we "get" a trend and embrace it, or not.
What was once considered a look for only the truly 'goth' among us, black nail polish has been embraced by all types whether they be diamond-ring-wearing Barneys shoppers, or cheeky purveyors of street fashion. Proof of the explosive popularity of black nail polish? Just try getting your hands on a bottle of Chanel Black Satin nail polish--not possible. What retailed for $18 a bottle at Neiman Marcus or Saks can now only be found on eBay, easily going for $80 plus a bottle (here are some eBay listings for the stuff). Despite this buying frenzy, Jolie in NYC blogs, "While I love most everything Chanel, I’m sorry, folks—no nail polish is worth paying nearly triple for."
Jolie recommends trying Essie Licorice instead, but we also really love Lippmann Collection's "Hit Me With Your Best Shot," (pictured in photo at left) a nail polish developed with 80's rocker Pat Benatar. "Hit Me With Your Best Shot" is less strikingly black like the Chanel polish, but just as pleasing with a very subtle (very) gunmetal finish, with flecks of silver that are not extremely noticeable (similar in that way to the Chanel Black Satin polish). If that does not work for you, try hunting down a bottle of OPI or Rimmel's Black Satin colors (yes, they both have the same name as the $18 Chanel version). One word of caution, however, Rimmel Black Satin is a flat black--it does not have a trace of shimmer like the OPI version, or for that matter, the Chanel or Lippman versions. You can purchase the Lippmann Collection online at www.lippmanncollection.com, or www.beautysak.com.Black nail polish, unlike black clothing, is not universally flattering. So, just like every other trend, we must always evaluate whether or not it will look good on ourselves. Another wearable alternative to black nail polish is OPI's Lincoln Park After Dark. This is an extremely dark color, but has a plum undertone that makes it a bit more palatable. ...And if you decide not to even go there to the dark side (of nail polish, that is) there are plenty of other incredible nail polishes that will say lots about you in just the same way.
