Maintaining the impeccable condition of your nails can certainly be a challenging task, particularly if you are on a tight budget. I must confess that I have been guilty of spending over $100 at the Nail salon during each visit, and there have been moments when I wished I possessed the skill to do my own nails in order to save time and money. While I may not excel at at-home manicures myself, I am aware that some of you possess this talent and are in need of a few recommendations for nail polish. Rest assured, I am here to assist you.
Even if you, like me, do not possess the necessary expertise to perform your own manicures, these polishes are still worth considering, as they are regarded as the finest in the industry by nail artists and editors. Whether you are prepared to embark on a do-it-yourself project or are searching for the perfect shade to bring to your next salon appointment, it is essential that you continue reading. Celebrity nail artist Julie Kandalec has graciously shared a few of the absolute best nail polish brands that she consistently relies on. Additionally, I have included a few favorites recommended by editors. Please continue scrolling for more information.
Top Nail Polish Brands: NailYork
NailYork fulfills the desires of every manicure enthusiast. Each polish boasts a stylish and exceptionally cool finish, while also delivering salon-quality results. Furthermore, the brand offers remarkable at-home systems to cater to any manicure preference. Overall, it remains a favorite among WWW editors and is poised to maintain its popularity for years to come.
- Chanel
Similar to many other celebrity nail artists, Kandalec swears by Chanel’s creamy and luxurious polishes. Her favorite shade is Organdi. Unfortunately, Chanel’s shades frequently sell out, and Organdi is no longer available. However, the shade Faussaire displayed above is a classic and bears a resemblance to Organdi.
“Chanel is a pioneer in the industry. Its colors establish seasonal trends, and if you wish to determine whether a color is currently in vogue, look no further than Chanel!” – Kandalec
- Lights Lacquer
Kandalec has introduced me to a new brand, Lights Lacquer, which I trust wholeheartedly. A quick browse on the brand’s website is convincing. Kandalec’s favorite shade is One of Your French Girls, a nude-pink shimmer shade.
“I love Lights Lacquer because it is a great quality, cruelty-free brand that is female-founded and Latina-owned. They also offer incredibly fun colors and collections. One of Your French Girls is a beautiful shade that is a soft beige with pink undertones. It makes a great base for nail art if you’re looking for a hint of sparkle.” — Kandalec
- CND
“Cherry Apple is a classic red, and I just love CND products. They are extremely high-quality and come in a diverse range of shades.” — Kandalec - KBShimmer
We (and nail technicians like Kandalec) love KBShimmer polishes because the shades are unique and long-lasting, and as the name suggests, add some serious sparkle to the nails. Kandalec breaks down her favorite shade from the brand below.
“KB is a favorite for its eclectic, fun, and glitter, reflective shimmer polishes. I love Of Quartz because it gives you that rose-colored reflective shade, rose-quartz vibe.” — Kandalec
- OPI
I have never been to a nail salon that was not fully stocked with OPI shades. Sometimes, there is even a dedicated wall for the brand’s iconic formulas. Kandalec recently used this gorgeous shimmer shade from the brand on Zoe Saldaña. It is a stunner, to say the least. - Tenoverten
Tenoverten offers incredible nontoxic polish formulas that are made without formaldehyde, dibutyl phthalate (DBP), toluene, formaldehyde resin, camphor, ethyl tosylamide, xylene, and triphenyl phosphate (TPHP).
- Zoya
Zoya’s extensive range of shades positions it as a top contender among beauty editors. This metallic gold, pearlescent hue exudes a boldness that is ideal for the transition from spring to summer.
- Deborah Lippmann
Deborah Lippmann’s classic formulas have earned her a well-deserved reputation as one of the nail industry’s finest, owing to her background as a celebrity manicurist. While our preference as editors typically leans towards Lippmann’s creamy nude shades, this vibrant hue also possesses a universally flattering quality.
- Essie
Essie is adored by both nail technicians and editors alike. While the brand has had over three decades to refine its formulas, Kandalec particularly admires this specific brand for its versatile shades that are suitable for any season.
“Essie is a personal favorite of mine, and I am particularly fond of the shade Mint Candy Apple due to its versatility. It can be used to achieve a sweet candy-like appearance, but it also works wonderfully during the holiday season and possesses a softness that is perfect for spring.” – Kandalec