Updated: Tuesday July 25
Congratulations to Angie B.!
She is the winner of our giveaway! We will be e-mailing you shortly. You will have 72 hours from when you receive the e-mail to reply or we will have to choose another winner.
Thanks everyone for participating! 🙂 We hope that you will still continue to visit and comment on future posts!
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It’s hard to believe that Swatch And Learn will be a year old on July 25th!
The single candle on our e-cake makes us happier than even tracking down that very-hard-to-find nail polish because not only have we loved getting creative through daily blogging, but we’ve also met so many kindred spirits along the way.
Reading your comments and interacting with all of you has been very rewarding. We’ve learned a lot from your contributions, and we’ve worked hard to make Swatch And Learn better. Without all of you, our blog would be nothing. You motivate us to continue!
We’ve stayed up late putting the finishing touches on posts, used the blog as an excuse to justify our makeup splurges, and shared our opinions on products we tested that worked or that didn’t. We’ve photographed our nails, our lips, our eyes, our eyelashes, and even our arms all in the name of reviews, swatches, and tutorials.
To celebrate this milestone and to thank all our readers, we’re holding a huge non-sponsored giveaway featuring products we purchased especially for this occasion.
Start Date: Now
Last Day to Enter: Monday, July 25th, 2011 @ 11:59 pm Eastern
Who Can Enter: Residents of Canada and the United States. (Sorry to our international readers!) If you’re younger than 16, please ask your parents for permission before entering because if you win, you’ll have to tell us your name and address.
Prizes That 1 Lucky Winner Will Receive
- 1 MAC Single Eye Shadow Refill Pan in Carbon (Black) – 1.5 g / 0.05 US oz.
- 1 Joe Fresh Nail Polish in Twilight (Flakie nail polish) – 6 mL / 0.2 US oz.
- 1 Claire’s Nail Polish in Venomous (Multichrome nail polish) – 15 mL / 0.50 fl. oz.
- 1 Bath & Body Works Zombie Squad PocketBac (Marshmallow scent & glow-in-the-dark label) – 29 mL / 1 fl. oz.
- 1 NYX Diamond Sparkle Lipgloss (Your choice of color. Choose from 1 of 6 colors! See below for selection.) – 5 mL / 0.2 oz.
- 5 NYX Dramatic Chromatic Eyeshadow Pigments (Green, Java, Chaotic, Violet & Silver) – 2 g / 0.07 oz. each
- 1 The Body Shop Mango Lip Butter – 10 mL / 0.29 oz.
- 1 Marcelle Wet & Dry Eye Shadow in Amazone (Army green) – 2 g / 0.07 oz.
All items the winner will receive are brand new, unused, undamaged, and never opened.
Click on the above links if you’d like to see our reviews and/or swatches on a particular item.
Winner will receive everything shown here. (But for the lip gloss, you get to choose 1 of 6 shades!)
NYX Dramatic Chromatic Eyeshadow Pigments - (Left-Right & Top-Bottom: Violet, Silver, Green, Chaotic & Java)
Winner chooses 1 color from these NYX Diamond Sparkle Lipglosses (Left-Right: Pink Sparkle, Silver Sparkle, Walnut Sparkle, Paprika Sparkle, Rust Sparkle & Beige Sparkle)
Claire's Nail Polish in Venomous & Joe Fresh Nail Polish in Twilight
Marcelle Wet & Dry Eye Shadow in Amazone & MAC Eye Shadow Refill in Carbon
The Body Shop Mango Lip Butter & Bath & Body Works Zombie Squad Anti-Bacterial Hand Gel
How to Enter
Please leave a comment below (with your e-mail address) telling us something about yourself that’s related to makeup or beauty.
It could be about an eye-shadow color you love to wear, what kind of primer you use before foundation, how often you paint your nails, that you don’t wear much makeup, etc.
Although each person will only be entered once for an equal chance at winning the giveaway, please feel free to reply to fellow readers’ comments – it’s fun to interact with each other!
And while you won’t get extra entries for following us on Twitter (@SwatchAndLearn), tweeting about the giveaway, and/or following us on Google Friend Connect, we would greatly appreciate it if you did. Plus, it would be nice if you take a look around our blog and leave a comment on our other posts. We love hearing what you have to say!
How We’ll Choose the Winner
To give everyone a fair chance, we’ll be using the True Random Number Generator on Random.org to determine the winner.
Once we contact the winner, (s)he will have 72 hours (from the time we e-mail) to reply and send us their name, full mailing address, and color choice for the NYX Diamond Sparkle Lipgloss.
When we receive this, we’ll announce the winner’s name in this post and on Twitter. We’ll also put together the items and send them out ASAP.
If we contact the winner and (s)he fails to reply to our e-mail within 72 hours, we’ll use the True Random Number Generator on Random.org a second time to determine another winner.
Good luck, everyone!
Thanks so much for this giveaway! Happy Blogaversary!
I have, for the longest time, been addicted to lip gloss, even though I don’t wear it very often! I’ll put it on in the morning and, unless I’m at a club or on a date, I’ll never reapply. Strange! My email is thenailaholic@hotmail.com
thenailaholic recently posted: FOTM: First July post 🙂 Mystery Sinful Colors
I know what you mean about being addicted to lip gloss. Hehe, a few years ago, I was obsessed with it and couldn’t leave the drugstore without buying a lip gloss. Now, though, I have the will power to resist. Too bad my addiction just shifted the focus to nail polish instead! 😛
OMG. I do the exact same thing! I love the idea of wearing lip products, but then I forget to reapply during the day. :S
Love your blog! When I get home from work every Friday night I get a drink and paint my nails while catching up on all the new blog posts.:)
So glad to hear that you really enjoy Swatch And Learn! Fiona and I have a lot of fun writing reviews and taking photos for each post. 🙂
What’s your drink of choice?
love your blog!
I’m a lipstick addict but I hate using my favourite colours too often since I don’t want to run out… it’s a problem. haha
email is paintingwithpolish@hotmail.com
Lesley recently posted: lovely lady of the lake.
Thanks so much, Lesley! 🙂
I know what you mean about being worried that you may run out of your favorite colors. I’m not as into lipstick, but with nail polish, I tend to buy back-ups of colors I’m paranoid about not being able to replace if I use them up.
Do you also buy back-ups of stuff you love?
That’s too funny, Lesley! I do that, too, actually… but only for limited-edition colors! 😛
I paint my nails at least once every 2 days… And my mom is just about passing out in frustration whenever I reach for my nail polish remover, LOL.
Wow, you do a lot of painting, Terry!
Before I used to just wait until the polish chipped before removing it and putting on another color. Once a manicure lasted me 2 weeks straight – it was China Glaze Blue Sparrow. These days, I tend to change my polish every few days mainly because I’ve collected so many polishes since 2008 and most of what I have are untried colors.
I paint my nails almost every day! it’s become worse since I started blogging…there is just way too much to try! 🙂 Love you ladies at Swatch and Learn! Happy b day!
Maribeth recently posted: Manicure of The Day: Color Club Ultra Astral Pictures and Review
Wow, I’m seriously impressed, Maribeth! I’m far too lazy to paint my nails every day.
My collection has grown so much since I started blogging, too! Not that I mind. 😛
When I was younger I never wore any kind of make-up,around my 17th birthday I exploded into nail polish and 18 I started loving lip gloss.This year I’ve been experimenting with various pink shades of lipstick and loving it,I have hope to one day pull of atleast one red lipstick.
My email is darknisfalls@yahoo.com
I’m still on the hunt for a good red lipstick – I find it really difficult to find a tone that isn’t too dark, too bright, or too orange.
Do you have a favorite pink lipstick from the ones you’ve tried so far, Christina?
I really like how Milanis Royale and NYC’s Snowcone look on me 🙂
I’ve heard so many great things about NYC’s blushes. Love how they’re super affordable, too. Glad you found colors that work well for you! 🙂
I have a serious problem with buying nail polish. I have trouble stepping into a store and leaving without at least one bottle. My collection went from about 5 in April to almost 200 now in July. That is insanity!!! And I’m totally becoming addicted to blush! I want all the NYX cream blushes. My email is life.nailpolish@yahoo.com
Poetic Realist recently posted: Nfu Oh Giveaway
WOW has your polish collection grown so quickly! I’m the same way, though. When I go to a store, if they have decent polishes that I don’t have, I usually walk away with at least one.
Oh, I’ve never tried the NYX cream blushes before – just the regular powder ones. Heard that the cream ones leave a dewy finish. Which one is your favorite color for the cream blushes?
Oh my from 5 to 200+? That is insane but seriously awesome!
It’s only very recently (two months ago) that I stopped biting my nails. I bit my nails since I had teeth. It was very hard but having braces means no biting at all, it’s 65 € to change one plate and I really prefer spending that money in nail polish. Now I’m really happy to wear nail polish, I want to wear fun colours with glitter.
My e-mail is sertyl00722@hotmail.com
Congratulations on not biting your nails anymore, Louise!
Little-known fact about me: I used to bite my nails a lot in grade school. So I completely know where you’re coming from. It’s difficult to kick the habit!
It was a nervous habit for me, and I also did it when I was bored. I think I was in the 7th grade when I looked down at my hands and was so ashamed by how gross they looked. I wanted them to look nice or at least presentable, and that’s the day I just stopped. It was tough, though. But I’m glad I fought the habit because ever since then, I’ve never had the urge to bite them.
And you’re right – nail polish is a great motivator to keep your nails looking great. 🙂
It was very hard but worth it! I’m glad I achieved this 🙂
I’m glad you did, too. It shows other people that with will power, it can be done!
Great story, Louise. 🙂 Glad you kicked it!
What are some of your favorite glitter nail polishes to wear now?
Thank you 🙂
I love OPI Katy Perry Teenage Dream, Last Friday Night, The One That Got Away; Absolutely Alice and Glam Slam.
I just found your blog and am *loving* it. I’m a nail polish addict who, sadly, can’t afford to feed her addiction as much as she would like, and must live vicariously through pretty pretty pictures. 😉
My lemming now is RBL Scrangie. I’m afraid there are no dupes, and I’d have to hit the lottery to afford a bottle but wow, is it gorgeous!
And d’uh…
my email address is missy.pratt@gmail.com
Sowwy
So pleased to hear that you love Swatch And Learn! 🙂 We have so much fun working on it!
I know exactly what you mean about living vicariously through pretty pictures of nail polish, Missy. I always drool over Deborah Lipmann Across the Universe and some Chanel polishes, but right now my budget is tight, so I satisfy my craving for them by looking at swatches of them. And in the meantime, I like to go through my current nail-polish stash and try out ones that I haven’t tested out before. Sometimes I find gems I never even knew I had. Plus it saves me some money.
RBL Scrangie is definitely gorgeous. You’re right about how there aren’t any dupes for it. But if you’re interested in something in a similar vein (but not totally the same), Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Grape Going! may ease the lemming a bit. And if you layer OPI DS Royal over a purple like OPI Can You Dig It?, you’ll get something similar.
Who knows? Maybe one day you’ll get your hands on it. They’ve decided to re-release it, so as long as it’s not discontinued, there’s a chance. I just hope that if they ever stop producing it that people don’t put it up on eBay for astronomical prices. In my idealistic mind, I’d like everyone to be able to buy it for the same (SANE!) price.
Happiest anniversary!
I’m loving Lioele Beyond the Solution BB Cream! Perfect match for my fair skin (with some blending)!
Thanks, Erin!
I have yet to try BB creams, but I’m thinking about it… Another beauty product for me to get addicted to! Hmmm. 😛
Thanks so much! 🙂
Glad to hear that you’ve found a cream that works well for you! I’ve heard some good things about that cream. Do you find it to be really good at controlling oil?
Hi there! It’s so funny, I recognize y’all from commenting on Nightly Nails, but I didn’t know you had a website until Kelly retweeted your giveaway! Now I’m following you on twitter AND you’re on my blogroll – I’ll be going back through and stalking your posts haha. So, happy first blogiversary! 🙂
I used to run a pretty “big” nail polish blog before I started Nightly Nails, it was called Magic Maid – and before that I did youtube videos about makeup! I still have a few friends who follow me now that I met while being a “guru”, so they do know I’m as interested in makeup as I am nail polish. Most folks don’t know that though! I am so in love with blushes. I used to be more into eye shadow – and I still love it – but I think I have almost as many blushes as I do eye shadow, and it’s funny how a different blush will change the way your face looks, just a little bit.
Also, I’ll take up your comments writing a book, haha! Anyway, thanks for the great giveaway, and I’m so glad I found your blog! 🙂
My email is nicole AT nightlynails.com.
Nicole recently posted: Thank you!
Aww…thanks for following us and adding us to your blogroll! 😀
Yes, I’ve been getting more and more into blushes, too. I agree that if you just change the color, it completely changes the way you look…and I find that blush really can tie together the whole look. Plus it’s easy to apply! Yay for that!
Glad that you found Swatch And Learn, too. 🙂 I’m looking forward to interacting with you again soon. It’s fun to share a love of makeup! 😀
thanks for this awesome giveaway!!!! omg im i love with your blog
omg im i love with your blog
srry for commenting twice. i wrote so much, but it onl showed my first sentence. So here i go. Im a huge nail polish fan. My very first nail polish i got was essie bootleg. its a nudy pink. I fell in love with essise”s color ever since. My current favorite for the summer would be the essie carpi. Its like a hot creamy orange great for the summer , you should really try to gget it. Oh yeah do u by any chance know where to buy the color starry starry night. I think its from essie ? my email is : itzchocolategirl@yahoo.com
That’s okay, Carmen. 🙂
Essie Starry Starry Night is spectacular. It’s too bad that it’s been discontinued and is very hard to find. I’ve been wanting to get my hands on it, too, but I really only see it pop up on eBay sometimes…and I’m never able to justify paying the prices I see. Funny because I found it easier to drop serious money on Clarins 230! I guess I’m still holding out for Essie to re-release Starry Starry Night. Hey, it could happen! Remember NARS Zulu? Sometimes if there’s enough demand, companies listen to their customers. Let’s hope this is the case.
I actually don’t have too many Essie polishes – maybe a dozen or so and they’re all dark, neon, or purple…haha! Strange since Essie tends to make more nudes, pinks, reds, and sheers.
Is your collection mainly Essie or do you collect a lot of other brands, too?
omg i really hope they sell starry starry night agian. wordd they sell it on ebay for like $300 and im like yeah, no way im buying that. Even though i love that color. Really most of my colors for essie brand is in the mor epink , white , red, orange side lol. I borught now since summer is here. In the fall i would buy the darker colors lol.
Well i also collet other brands of nail polish. Opi, sally hansen, sinful colors (good brand, good price),etc 🙂
Oh geez – $300? I haven’t looked in a long time. That’s ridiculous! Last time I saw it a year or so ago, I saw it listed for $80, and that was already too rich for my blood. I wonder if anyone bought it for $300…Could never justify that unless I was a multimillionaire. Even then, I’d probably just use my wealth to open up my own nail-polish shop!
haha 🙂 $300 is too much for a nail polish. I always did have a dream of opening a nail salon. My friends think i do really cute nail art. One day, i should make a youtube account for that. And also help people out telling them the best nail polishs and the wrost 🙂
You totally should start a YouTube account for it, Carmen! I’d love to see the nail art that you do. 🙂
And I’ve become very good at justifying spending $ on makeup, but even I can’t justify spending $300 on a polish! :S
If you did that, Carmen, I’d definitely check out your videos!
You had me at nail polish! Hehehe! 😀
Congratulations Mary and Fiona!!!! Happy anniversary!!
Oh, do I really need to tell you guys anything about me and make-up/nail polish? I think your wallets can speak for themselves. LOL!! Besides…we still have to do our crazy shopping spree!!!
Kee recently posted: Black and White tips!
Thanks for your support, Kee! 🙂
You’re a reader who has seen many of our ups and downs – that is, our polish and beauty splurges! 😛
I’m excited and nervous about a potential crazy shopping spree with you. Hehe, we enable each other to no end!
Hey, do you think you’ll be going to IMATS in the fall?
Awww. Thanks, Kee!
Seriously, I was just thinking about our shopping spree… Soon?!
Happy Anniversary! Well deserved. I’ve only recently stumbled across your website in the past few weeks when my love of nail polish has quickly turned into an obsession. I love all your advice and pics as it’s helped me to expand my collection. You’ve influenced my recent decision to purchase the Bundle Monster pack of nail stamps. I’ve thought of nothing else since clicking the purchase button. My favorite nail technique that I’ve recently learned is the water marbling. I did my first one this weekend and I’m in love. Thanks so much for the great giveaway chance!
Thanks, Linda!
It really encourages Mary and me hearing that readers like you find our advice and pic useful. 🙂
What kind of colors did you use for your first water marbling attempt?
Nail polishes are like potato chips – bet you can’t just have one!
I’m so happy to hear that you’ve decided to try out the Bundle Monster image plates. You’re going to love them, Linda. They have so many unique and creative designs! And they’re such a great value, so it’s easy on your wallet.
Water marbling looks so interesting to me. I’ve seen a lot of YouTube videos on it and love the results. Going to try it out soon. Hope it turns out well!
great giveaway! i usually don’t wear makeup but ive been more interested in it (and im 24, how ridiculous is that?) i usually only used to wear eyeliner and mascara and chap stick, and now im trying to ease into wearing lipgloss in addition w/ that and some bronzer. i dont want to wear all makeup all at once because i dont want to shock people or have them ask “oh why are you wearing makeup today?” im basically trying to find the best way to ease into it! on the other hand, i do my nails constantly!!
We had so much fun picking out the items for this giveaway! 😀
Actually, I don’t think it’s ridiculous at all, Michaela. 🙂 It’s all about what you feel comfortable wearing or not wearing. Makeup should be fun and not something that defines us. I don’t think anyone is ‘too old’ to dabble into makeup. It’s about self-expression! 😀
Nail polish, I wore very early on, but I actually only started wearing eyeliner when I was in the 10th grade…No other makeup. It was only when I went to university that I started wearing eyeliner and mascara. Then after graduating, I gradually started experimenting with mineral foundation and stopped wearing mascara.
Some people I know cake on tons of makeup. They look great, but that’s a LOT of work to do every morning…hehe…and I’m pretty groggy most mornings, so I like to keep my routine as simple as possible. I respect people who can wear a full face of makeup and look flawless in the morning, but it’s just not for me and my lifestyle. Right now I’ve narrowed down my routine to just mineral foundation, eyeliner, and eye shadow for most days. The only thing that’s a must for me is nail polish. And lately I’ve been playing with blush.
OMG you know I love your blog. Although someitmes I feel like I am too old to try some fo the new trends, I love how you take some of the scary out of the new colours!!
M recently posted: 6 of one, half-dozen of the other!!!
It’s so great to hear that, M! 😀
I think the thing about trends is that, sure, they don’t always work for everybody. We only pick the ones we think suit us. You should wear what you feel you’re most comfortable wearing. If it doesn’t feel right, chances are that it’s not. It’s impossible to follow every trend anyway.
And even some colors like neon-pink lipstick (MAC Candy Yum Yum) surprised me. I thought nobody could pull off such a dramatic color unless you were an anime character. However, there are some women who pull it off wonderfully because they’re confident, they feel good wearing it, and they like the color.
Trends come and go, but confidence is always in. If you feel confident, you can wear whatever you like and even start your own trend! 🙂
I can’t live without blush and lipgloss.
jdavisfam04@gmail.com
Do you have specific brands for those that are your favorites, Melissa?
I’m starting to wear makeup at the advanced age of 37! Last year I have discovered fyrinnae.com whose eye shadows don’t turn my eyes all itchy. I’m now working on getting nail polish to stay on for more than 6 hours. 🙂
I think it’s great that you’re experimenting with makeup. It’s fun at any age! 😀
Ohhh, I’ve seen swatches of Fyrinnae shadows – they look so pretty and pigmented.
Did you ever discover what was causing your eyes to get itchy?
My eyes used to get red, swollen, and disgustingly dry whenever I wore eye shadow, so obviously I just stopped trying any. But then several years ago, I pinpointed my allergy to the ingredient, bismuth oxychloride. Hesitantly, I tested out shadows without that ingredient, and I was pleasantly surprised to find out that I didn’t get any weird reaction. Hehehe…that was the day the world of shadows opened up to me. It was also the day when my wallet got lighter because then I started buying eye shadow like no tomorrow! 😛
Have you tried using different base coats and top coats to make your manicures last longer? I’ve found that those matter more than the actual polish itself. Right now I’m having good lucky with these base coats: OPI Natural Nail Base Coat, Nail Tek Foundation II Base Coat, and Orly Bonder Rubberized Base Coat. Although for the latter, don’t wear it with yellows because it doesn’t protect against staining! As for top coats, I mainly use Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat, although in the past I used Nubar Diamont Top Coat up until they changed their formula for the worse. When they changed it back, I had so much Seche Vite left that I didn’t bother buying more Nubar Diamont.
There’s never a right or wrong age to start wearing makeup, I say! 🙂
GFC: nermeen mohamed
email: nermeen1899@hotmail.com
a fact about me : im really addicted to konad nail art although i never used it 😀
Hey there, nermy!
Konad nail art is definitely really addictive because it’s simple to use and you can create so many elaborate designs that look like you spent way longer on your nails. Since I’ve discovered Konad, Bundle Monster, and just nail stamping in general, I’ve been hooked! (In fact, tomorrow I have another blog post on a Konadicure I did!)
Do you plan to try Konad out sometime? It’s really good value and it’s very versatile considering how many designs you can create and customize. 🙂 (Enabler here! :P)
By the way…thanks for following us on Google Friend Connect! 🙂
Hi nermy!
I’m sure if you used it, you’d be even MORE addicted to it. :P:P
Hey! This is the first time I’ve ever commented on your blog, but I read it all the time! Its so helpful! And yeah I change my nails all the time! My favorites right now are opi Last Friday Night and the china glaze crackles 🙂 and thanks foe the contest too 🙂
Hi Emmalee!
Thanks for your support and comment. 🙂 Mary and I are glad that you find our blog helpful. It’s very encouraging to hear that.
Good luck! :):)
Thanks for commenting, Emmalee! We love hearing what our readers have to say. It’s fun to bounce ideas off each other.
Nice – I love OPI Last Friday Night. It was the one I was most excited about in the Katy Perry Collection when it first came out. As for the China Glaze crackles, did you get the new metallic ones?
Nope not yet unfortunately 🙁 I can’t wait to get them though! The silver crackle by opi is amazing, so I’m hoping they’ll be just as good!
I actually haven’t got them yet, either. I’m waiting for them to show up on Trans Design or another etailer so it’s easier on my wallet. I’m sure they’ll be amazing – China Glaze makes a lot of fantastic polishes!
Happy Anniversary! Congratulations on one year! I love your blog and read it almost everyday. I am 26 years old and really started getting into nail polish last summer while I was studying for a big test. I’m a little late to the game, but my love for polish is quickly turning into an addiction that everyone knows about and teases me. Even the clerks at my local CVS know me and expect me to come in whenever tere is a sale!
Thanks so much! So flattered that you read Swatch And Learn almost daily, Laura! 😀
I know exactly what you mean by a love for polish quickly turning into an addiction! Hehe…there are so many incredible colors out there. Somehow even when you think that you have all the ones you could possibly want, a company comes out with a twist or a new finish. Sucks us back in….hehehe. 😛 Haha, that’s cute how the CVS staff recognize you!
Hi Laura!
There’s no such thing as being late to the nail-polish game! 🙂
It’s funny CVS knows you… I think the Bath & Body Works staff recognizes me as well. No shame in that! 😛
Happy 1st year anniversary! I found your blog recently and have fallen in love. (: I personally am a total blush girl. I also love nail polish (who doesn’t!?) and give myself a mani at least once a week. I always try to make them different and fun and according to the season. Nail polish is my addiction!
Email: liliaortiz100@aol.com
Thanks so much, Lilia! 😀 Hope you come back soon and often. We update daily! And since I’m a total nail-polish addict, most of my posts are about nail polish and nail art…hehe! You’ve come to the right place….Be careful! You’ve been warned…hehe! 😛
Do you prefer powder blushes or cream blushes? Any good recommendations for a subtle peachy blush?
Hi Lilia – what a lovely name!
I’m totally a blush girl, too. I wasn’t until last year, and now I can’t go a day without it! Same goes with nail polish… it all started with this blog! Hahah. 🙂
I have my own beauty column. I love to keep lots of colors in my make up arsenal depending on the season and my mood
Angie B. recently posted: @Eyeko has something "rolled up their sleeves" at 10,000 Facebook likes
Hi Angie!
Oh man. I would love to see your arsenal. You must have lots of fun putting on makeup!
I used to love putting make up on. It was fun and made me feel good. I wouldn’t step out of the house without full make up. Then with each kids i put less and less on. some days i’d go out without any on or just a quick slick of lip gloss. Well I had bought some new make up because I found a new brand with colors I’d never tried before. Well I’m back in full force. I’m writing my beauty column and friends are running out to buy the polishes and makeup i have on
Angie B. recently posted: Check out my beauty column and you can win my beauty giveaway ends 8/20
It’s fun having so many colors at your fingertips, isn’t it? 😀 Allows us to get creative!
I too have a nail blog and do my nails almost every other day lol! I absolutely love love nail polish and I like your Konad swatches 🙂
Hi Marisa!
Just checked out your blog, and I’m loving all your nail-art designs! Good job!
Mary has more expertise on Konad than I do for now – I haven’t really gotten into it yet. I’m scared to… because that’ll be yet another thing to be addicted to! 😛
Don’t be scared, Fiona. It’s JUST one more addiction! 😛 DO IT! DO IT! *Peer pressure from a Konad gang member*
LOL! Co-dependent relationships aren’t healthy! 😛
Healthy shmealthy! Do it! You know you want to! And if you don’t do it for yourself, do it for the polish!
Wow, almost every other day! That’s impressive!
Thanks! 😀 I’m glad you like my Konad swatches. It’s so much fun. Ever since I discovered nail stamping, I now look at an ordinary polish and wonder, “What would it look like with a Konad design on it?” Hahaha! 😛
I’m known as “the nail polish girl” at school. So that might explain how addicted I am. And I’m a nailblogger. Next year in college they want to teach us how to blog, so the teachers asked me to teach them first because they don’t know yet and I do hahaha.
you nailed it! recently posted: The Naughty Intern
I’m familiar with your blog – I check it out every so often! 🙂 Hehe…the name of the nail polish you’re wearing in today’s post made me laugh. You’re right – it’s so much more fun wearing a polish with a name instead of a number.
Wow! Congrats on the teaching gig! 😛
I seem to be obsessive compulsive with my nail polish, if it so much as chips on the first day I need to either fix it somehow or strip and re-polish it…so into my brights and pastels now X
Happy Blogaversary
dp0444(at)bris(dot)ac(dot)uk
I’m the same way, Dora! Chips drive me absolutely bonkers. However, most of the time polish chips, I just repaint using a new color isn’t of trying to fix it.
Do you have any current favorite brights and pastels?
I think my current faves are a periwinkle blue by (shockingly) H&M, fuzzy peach by Models Own, a nice cyan by Barry M, pale yellow by 17, a leafy green by Beauty UK, a soft peachy pink and Sold out forever by Catrice and a soft smoky brown by ELF lol to name a few x
Wow, that’s a lot of favorites! 🙂 How’s the quality of H&M polishes, by the way? Never tried them, but I’ve seen swatches of them online. They look great…but I’m wondering what you thought of the formula. Are they good and consistent?
Some are better than others, they can be a smidge gloopy but the ah-mazing colours make up for it and nothing a dropsicule of thinner can’t fix. I like them quite a bit x
Good to know! I’ll have to check them out now for sure!
I used to be like that, too, Dora. And then I got lazy and just let the polish chip away until I can do a new mani. 😛
Happy Blogiversary! 😀 I’ve just recently stumbled upon your blog while looking for Canadian ones [it’s been downright frustrating reading US-based blogs and finding out the products they feature won’t even come north of the border or their online shops don’t ship int’l :(] and I love love love how you guys cater to lower price points too so I don’t have to splurge so much. XD My recent beauty obsession is nail polish and I do my nails at least 2-3 times a week. Currently having fun with the Del Sols my wonderful hubby got me for my birthday. Yay for more sunny weather! 😀
Oh, and my email is ascaeriel@gmail.com
Glad you found us, Carmela! 🙂 We’re proud to be Canadian! And we love bringing our readers reviews and swatches on all different types of products from various price points. We know that it’s not always about the price, but about how effectively a product works. 🙂
I understand your frustration about not being able to buy items you want that aren’t available in Canada. The only way I get some products that don’t ship to Canada is because I know someone who lives in the States and is nice enough to help me out. Sometimes that bugs me that it’s a hassle to get these products, but on a positive note, I think that if I lived in the States, I’d probably be broke because everything I want would be just a click away! Haha!
Oh, I’ve seen the Del Sols but haven’t tried them yet. Which ones do you have that have the most dramatic color change? I’m thinking about getting some.
Sorry about the late reply! I didn’t see this till..well, now. @_@
I have Spike (a frosty green that turns purple in the sun), Pretty in Pink (a pearl shade with a pink-almost fuchsia-flash that turns pink in the sun), Surfer Girl (frosty pink that turns yellow orange in the sun) and Electrick! (frosty blue that turns green in the sun).
Spike and Pretty in Pink have the craziest color changes and it’s soooo fun to watch it change! Gotta love how Pretty in Pink is very work appropriate too, no one’s the wiser. 😉
Electrick! isn’t that much of a change since the undertones are too similar but it’s a gorgeous blue even without the sun that I don’t mind as much.
Surfer Girl’s strange in that it makes my nails look frostily stained in the sun. Not really a good thing.
My hubby chose the colors so no glitters (he’s not fond of blingy nails :P) but I think Ruby Slippers would be a great pick too. And Island Fever. I’d have picked that over Surfer Girl.
Can’t wait to see what you think of them. Looking forward to a post about Del Sols soon! 😀
That’s okay. Better late than never, right? 😉
Oooohhh…Spike sounds incredible – my 2 favorite colors! Electrick sounds awesome, too, even if the color change is subtle.
Wow, kudos to your husband! He has excellent taste! Maybe one of these days, he’ll let you paint his nails with Pretty in Pink? Haha! 😛
Thanks, Carmela!
Oh, Canada. Go, Canada! I get frustrated with products that don’t come to Canada, too. Or if they do, it’s like months outdated. At least it saves me from spending too much $$, right? 😀 Silver lining!
All too true! Altho the price difference bugs me too, esp when the exchange rate has been hitting par more often lately anyway. Not that it would be enough reason to move down south. I’d visit but not live there, thankyouverymuch. Yay, Canada! XD
Love your blog. I don’t usually wear enough make-up when going out. At home I don’t wear any. Would love to be entered in the drawing.
Hi Tracy! Thanks for visiting. 🙂
I think it’s good that you let your natural beauty shine through. When you do wear makeup though, what do you prefer?
Thanks so much, Tracy! 🙂
When I’m at home, I don’t bother wearing makeup, either, unless I’m testing out something or just playing around with it to come up with a new look.
I’m a newbie to the wonderful world of nail polish and I’m in love! I could seriously spend HOURS looking at all of the different colors in drugstores and online. I’m borderline obsessed. I recently found your blog and I’m so glad I did. I can’t wait to read more of your posts!
Hi Kate!
Glad you found us. 🙂
We’re both obsessed with nail polishes, too, and makeup and skincare products and hair care products and… food. Hahah. We have addictive personalities. Oh, I shouldn’t speak for Mary. I should say I have an addictive personality. 😛
Hehe, I know what you mean. Oh wait…I already HAVE spent hours looking at different colors. 😛
I’m so happy to hear that you recently found our blog! Please do stick around – Fiona and I update it daily, so there’s always something new to see!
I am addicted to everything make/beauty!! I love to try new stuff all the time!! The one thing that has stayed constant for years now is Bare Minerals foundation!! Love love love it!! It is so light on my face!
Right now I am testint out OPI Shatter in the white… Hope it works out well!!
My email is littlef022002@yahoo.com
This is such a fun blog!! Thanks!!
Hi Lisa!
Me, too! Sometimes I think it’s more the thrill of trying new stuff that gets me. I’ve only tried Bare Minerals Mineral Veil, but not the foundation. I’m always up for trying a new make-up product! Does it have SPF?
Thanks! Mary and I work hard on it and are glad you find it fun!
I have a small sample of the Bare Minerals foundation that I got during a Canadian Sephora promotion. I need to test it out already – had it for months! Thanks for reminding me.
What did you decide to layer OPI White Shatter over?
I absolutely love neutral/brown eye shadows. That’s why All That Glitters by MAC is one of my favs!
Hi Kimberly!
I like how neutral yet stand-out All That Glitters is. I actually didn’t love neutrals before because I thought they were kind of blah, but now I have a real appreciation for them. They really do complement every color!
Oh yes! I’ve heard so many awesome things about that shade. I’m so sad, though, because I’m allergic to bismuth oxychloride…and I believe most (if not, all) MAC shadows contain that ingredient. Well, I can admire it on the internet at least. So beautiful!
And I think neutral/brown eye shadows are so underrated! They look great and enhance natural beauty without being too loud. That reminds me – I need to bust out some of my neutrals more often!
Happy Anniversary 😀 how exciting to be doing something you love and growing!! One thing about me I LOVE to wear bright bold eyeshadows but rarely do in public in fear of rude comments/ stares. I have learned so much since blogging though so I am more comfortable now.
My Email is luckeepinkstar@gmail.com
Amber recently posted: Neutrogena Oil Free Acne Wash
Thanks, Amber!
It is exciting! We love that our hard work got us to the 1-year mark. It’s very satisfying. 🙂
I’m glad you’re more comfortable with bold colors. I think makeup is a way to express yourself, and if you want to wear bright shadows, then don’t like rudeness put a halt on your expression. 🙂
Thanks so much, Amber! 😀
Yes, this blog has been a wonderful journey. It feels so good to be able to express yourself and share thoughts in a community that understands your makeup/beauty obsessions…haha!
Aww…I think you should wear what you love. Maybe you won’t wear it every single day, but try wearing it out at least once. Who cares what the rude people think? They don’t have to like it. It’s your face, not theirs.
I LOVE nail polish. If it didn’t take so much work, I think I’d wear a different color everyday!
Hello there, fellow nail-polish lover! 🙂 You’ve come to the right place. I’m trying to do more nail-art posts, too, in addition to regular swatches.
I don’t know how some people polish their nails daily – I’m so impressed because that’s a lot of work!
Me too! Not only because it’s “so much work,” but because the remover stinks! LOL.
Congrats on your blogaversary! I am a longtime make-up wearer but only recently a make-up addict. I’m all about the dramatic eye look any time of the day. I have only recently started getting into bolder lipsticks and glosses. My hair is -just- the right length around the face to get stuck to my lips so it is a constant love hate relationship!
Thanks so much, Holly! 🙂
I’m a sucker for dramatic eyes, too. They’re my favorite feature to play up!
What are some of the bolder lipsticks that you have and love? I’m curious! Are they vampy burgundies or bright purples?
Thanks, Holly!
I’ve only recently started getting into bold lipsticks, too. I want to wear a blood-red color, but not completely comfortable with it yet. 😛 Soon!
Happy 1 year blogiversay to you! =) Thank you so much for this giveaway as well =D I’ve taken a recent *obsession* with nail polish lately after one of my good girlfriends gave me a pair of mood changing polishes from Claire’s. I didn’t think I would even like it but then I slowly started discovering more and more about polish and now I am absolutely hooked! I can’t wait for new collections to come out and I find out about more and more polishes I like every day. It’s a fantastic artsy sort of release for me and I couldn’t be happier! =D (My wallet really can’t say the same though, hahah) Again, thank you and congrats!!!
Ohhh…mood polishes! Lucky you! I totally want to try some of those. I’ve heard that the ones from Claire’s are especially lovely because they change colors based on temperatures and don’t rely on the sun.
Hehe…all it takes is one color to get you hooked on nail polish. Seriously, drugstore polishes are like gateway drugs to more expensive polishes! At least it was that way for me! 😛
Hi Jamie! Thanks!
It only really takes that one nail polish until the addiction starts! 😛 And yes, my wallet and I are in disagreement all the time. Hahah.
Just found your website!! Thanks for the giveaway 🙂 I would love to win.
I just recently started doing my own nails to save money and now I am totally addicted. I have to get something better to store all of my polishes and equipment. I change my color pretty much every 3-4 days.
Happy Blogaversary!!
Hey there, Barb! 🙂 Thanks for the well wishes!
When I first started collecting nail polish, I used clear plastic shoe boxes to store them. They’re just a few dollars each, and they stack up nicely to save space. But now I have over 400 bottles, so I finally bought a red Helmer from IKEA. I love it – keeps all my polishes in one place, and I organize them by color. 🙂
Do you think you’ll get a Helmer eventually?
Hi Barb!
I like getting my nails done professionally, but I looove doing them myself! It costs so much less, and everything’s done to your specific preference! What’s your favorite color to wear?
Thanks!
I AM OBSESSED WITH MAKEUP!! This year my collection ballooned from being held in one small Sterilite storage box to 3 storage boxes. Same goes for my nailpolish collection…I went from owning about 20 polishes to now owning at least 50 polishes! Although I have to admit, I enjoy trying new nailpolishes more than I enjoy trying new make up because the wrong kind of make up can make me break out like CRAZY!
: ) Thanks for doing the giveaway!!!
I’M SO HAPPY THAT YOU’RE OBSESSED WITH MAKEUP…and nail polish! 😛
I’m just like you – I prefer to try out new polishes. I think it’s also because with polish, you can wear any color (even crazy colors) and pull it off. But it’s harder to pull off crazy colors on your face.
Hi Kiran!
We’re in the same boat. I’ve always loved nail polishes, but I had a small collection of colors I rotate. But now it’s ballooned to OMG proportions.
Here’s to being obsessed! 😛
YAY for being obsessed with makeup and nailpolish!!!
Yessssssssssssss. Let us all embrace the obsession! 😛
I luv Nail Polish, I change my polish 2-3 times a week. I’ve been try to wear each color that I have at least once. I love watching make-up videos on youtube. I own make- up, but I rarely wear it. Funny thing is I would love to learn because I bellydance, so I would love to do my own make-up instead of having someone else do it! LOL
Hi Nicola!
I, too, an trying to wear each color I own at least once. But it’s kind of hard to do when I keep buying new ones as I see them! Hahah.
You bellydance? That’s awesome – I’ve actually wanted to try, but I have no rhythm at all! And I think all it takes is practice if you want to wow people with your own makeup. 🙂
Ooohh…bellydancing! That sounds like fun! How long have you been doing that?
I’m also trying to wear each nail polish I own at least once…but that’s gonna take me a long time because my collection is ridiculous…hehe….And also because sometimes I wear the same shade more than once because I fall in love with it. But then I feel guilty about doing so because of all my untried polishes.
I have to say, I wasn’t really into makeup for the longest time. Now I’m starting to branch out and experiment with different looks and I’m really loving it. I would love the chance to win these goodies and expand my growing obsession with makeup and nail polish!
Thanks for hosting the giveaway and happy blog-iversary!!
Hi Zoey!
Thanks for the blog-iversary wishes. :P:P
I think makeup is more than about enhancing your natural beauty. It’s a way to let the world know your own style, mood and personality. That’s why I love hearing that you’re experimenting with different looks to express yourself! Keep it going! 🙂
I’m happy to hear that you’re experimenting with new looks, Zoey! 🙂 What kinds of new looks have you tried so far?
I work at a spa that has Deborah Lipmann nail colors…and I can never decide which color to paint my nails, so I end up changing almost daily. In addition to the vast collection at my work, I’ve obtained quite a collection myself, mostly butter london polishes. Love love love nail polish, which is how I found your page, searching for a picture of Orly Space Cadet to show off my favorite new color to my FB friends. Love your blog!
Ooohh, lucky you! I would love to work at a place like that…although I would get distracted a LOT! 😛
The one Deborah Lipmann polish I’m lemming is Across the Universe! Sooooo incredibly gorgeous and sparkly! 🙂
Thanks! I’m glad that you found Swatch And Learn through my pictures of Orly Space Cadet. I loved wearing that colour, and it was fun taking photos of it, too! Such an awesome colour by Orly – loved that entire Cosmic FX Collection! 🙂
Hi Susan!
:O Lucky you get to change your nails almost daily… and to have such a vast selection at your disposal!
Which is your favorite Butter London color?
I am in love with makeup and have been for a long time. I would love to be able to win these products it would make me super happy!!!!
Hey Katie! 🙂 If you were stranded on a desert, what are the 3 items of makeup you’d bring?
Hi Katie!
Makeup is indeed addictive! 😛 What is your favorite brand?
Good luck on the draw!
My first experience with makeup when I was a teenager (40years ago) was a lipstick called “Buzz Buzz Pink” I don’t remember who made it. Does anyone remember this ?
amt(at)telus(dot)net
Hmm…Buzz Buzz Pink lipstick? Forty years ago I wasn’t into makeup…only because I wasn’t born yet! 😛 Sorry, that name doesn’t ring any bells for me, but if I come across it online later, I’ll remember to get back to you.
Do you remember Timotei shampoos and conditioners from the 90s (I think it was the 90s)? They made this one that had honey in it, I think, and it smelled good enough to eat. The stores in Canada stopped selling them, and I was so bummed out.
Hi Anne-Marie!
Did some prowling online, but couldn’t find it. But I did come across someone else on a message board who remembers Buzz Buzz Pink. She mentioned she got it from a department store. Did you get yours from one, too?
Hi Ladies, happy anniversary and thanks for all the great and informative posts! it’s made a number of my m/u decisions easier.
On that note, I’m one of those unfortunate people who have sever eczema on my face, so that limits me to mascara, lip products, and nail polish. I’ve made this up by excelling in nail polish so much that I’ve been cut off! (but not really, hah!) My family seems to enjoy trolling my purchases so much that they go straight into my overflowing drawer.
Anyways! I seem to always make the same colour family purchases unless I’m on the hunt for something specific… but even then, the dark colours always call to me lol. What about you guys? Do you do it too?
ayame 86 [at] gmail (do t) com
Thank you so much, Steph! So happy to hear that you appreciate the hard work that we’ve put into each post. It’s truly a labor of love.
Oh, I’m so sorry to hear about your severe eczema. I can only imagine how frustrating it can be. But I’m glad that you still manage to get your fun in with nail polish! Good choice…hehe…(says the resident nail-polish fanatic!). 😉
Hmm…I don’t always make the same color family purchases. I wear pretty much any and every color out there (for nail polish), so I’m open to the rainbow – dark, light, neon, and everything in between. When it comes to eye shadow, I tend to buy more greens, blues, and purples, but I still get a lot of other hues like browns, golds, and even oranges, pinks, and yellows.
What are your favorite dark nail polishes to wear?
Hmmm my fav nail polish? That’s really hard to narrow down lol… A couple that I reach for over and over include china glaze little drummer boy and Sugar Plums, and Man Glaze’s Fuggen Ugly. Oddly enough, right now, I’m enjoying a mermaid-like mani with SH Xtreme wear’s Marine Scene and a holo hex topper.
I have to say, this may all change once i get my hands on Orly’s Comsmic Fx line!! I’ve been lemming those for quite s while..
Great choices! 🙂
Ohhh…yeahhh…You’re going to go ga-ga over the Orly Cosmic FX Collection. I have them and they are stunning. I haven’t anticipated a collection for a long time as much as that one. Spade Cadet, It’s Not Rocket Science, and Halley’s Commet were the stars from that for me! I wore It’s Not Rocket Science several times, which is saying something. I love that kind of green!
Hi Steph!
Sometimes I wish someone would cut me off. Wait. What am I saying. No, I don’t!
I love, love dark colors, too – I think they appeal to my dark side. 😛 But I’ve been trying to venture out of my comfort zone and be a little bit more daring.
Which is your favorite brand/nail polish color?
I don’t really have a fave brand, it’s mostly as long as they work… But I must admit I love the China Glaze/Orly/Zoya/Nubar etc. that I do have.
Have you noticed if the expensive brands are any better than midrange? There’s all the wonderful stories of Deborah Lipmann polishes, but there’s other stories of inconstancies with other brands, and there are usually easier to find dupes. Like everyone else, I hate shelling out cash for stuff that sucks – it’s about as disappointing as melty cotton candy..
Yes, I don’t have a fave brand, either. As long as the application is good and, of course, the color is gorgeous!
Sometimes shelling out more money for better consistency, quicker drying time and smoother application is necessary. 🙁 But I find that a lot mid-range brands work really well too, like China Glaze and Nubar. Because of that, I don’t think I can justify spending a lot of $$ just for a higher-end brand consistently… unless their color is totally unique.
And your comment about melty cotton candy made me smile. I hate that, too, since it takes away the fun in eating cotton candy!
I paint my nails everyday and have way too much nail polish. But I dont wear any make up only a bit of lip gloss here and there. I love EOS lip balm. Its yummy.
Hi AnaMaria!
What’s your favorite nail polish to wear?
I like buying lip glosses, but I always forget to wear ’em. 🙁
Zoya!!! 😀
Wow, kudos for painting your nails daily! That’s a lot of work, so I commend you on your effort!
I’ve always wanted to try the EOS lip balm. Heard so many wonderful things about it, plus I like the shape of it and the fun colors it comes in.
Happy Blogaversary! I’m 35 and just started painting my nails on a regular basis last November. Since then, I’ve accumulated over 60 polishes and am a serious addict. I am constantly searching for new blogs and swatches. Unfortunately, I seem to find myself lemming over HTF polishes that I will never own. That doesn’t stop me from looking and drooling, though. I was searching Sally Hansen’s Hidden Treasure when I came across your blog. 🙂
Thanks, Donna!
Lemming over HTF polishes… That’s always the case of a nail-polish addict, isn’t it?
Have you worn every color in your nail-polish collection, or do you have many untrieds?
Thanks for the well wishes, Donna!
From one nail-polish addict to another…you’re in good manicured hands! 😛 Hehehe!
Glad that you found us through my post on Sally Hansen’s Hidden Treasure! That one’s a beauty, and I was so happy to receive it as a surprise gift from a friend. What hard-to-find nail polishes are you lemming now? I have soooo many!
I’m 46 and recently rekindled my love for nail polish. I’ve went from 60 older polishes to almost 650 in a short period of time. I love make up too, but I don’t wear it everyday like I use to.
Hi Jeanie!
Wow! That’s quite a gain in nail polishes. I must say: CONGRATS! 😛 How long did it take for your collection to grow?
WOW – 60 to 650? That is quite a jump! I’m impressed. And whoa, all those older polishes you have much be super hard-to-find. Treasure those babies – they’re priceless!
Hello! First off, thanks so much for doing this great giveaway! (= Congrats on 1 year of blogging!!!
I am a navy wife of 2 1/2 years and I just recently (since Easter) started getting hooked on nail polishes because of my older sister. I have since been painting my nails around 3 times a week! We take pictures to show each other, but neither of us blog. I don’t wear much makeup but I am obsessed with moisturizing. Right now my favorite face moisturizer is Alba’s Green Tea. The most recent polish color I have added to my collection will be Emerald Sparkle when it gets here! I snagged that beauty from Nailstash’s Blogsale!
email: lacquerlover11@gmail.com
You’re very welcome, Christina! Holding this giveaway is fun for us, too. And it’s exciting to interact with everyone who’s been following our blog. Reading comments from readers puts a smile on my face. 😀
If you take pictures of your nails, you should totally blog and share your beautiful colors with the rest of the world! 🙂
Alba has a lot of great products that smell delicious. I used to have this pineapple cream (I think it was pineapple) and it was so good, sometimes when I put it on, I wanted to eat it. But, don’t worry, I didn’t…
China Glaze Emerald Sparkle is a wonderful choice! When Scrangie first swatched it on her blog when it was first released, I knew I had to have it. Since then, I also bought one back-up bottle of it just in case. It’s weird, though, how there are 2 versions of it going around. I’m glad that the 2 bottles I have are of the first (better) version. The second’s still nice, but the first is breathtaking!
Hi Christina!
You’re welcome, and thank you! 😛
It’s too bad you don’t blog because I’d love to see your swatches. Seeing other people’s nail colors is always so fun!
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YAY! Thanks, Marta, for letting your visitors know about our giveaway! 🙂 I really appreciate it.
Happy Blog Anniversary! The giveaway looks awesome.
I’ve been really addicted to nail polish for about a year now. I guess you could call me obsessed. I really can’t go into a store that has nail polish without browsing. Almost every time I feel compelled to buy something. I have about 88 bottles or so in my collection and it keeps growing. I just can’t stop! I change my nail color about every week because I like to get my use out of it as much as I can. I really can’t choose a favorite color either, I have so many that I love. But I have a huge love for blue nail polish, mainly the dark ones with shimmer/glitter that remind me of starry nights. What I love most about nail polish is that it allows you to express what mood you’re in and it gives you the chance to be creative with all the designs you can do. As of right now I’m wearing Sally Hansen Green With Envy with OPI Glow Up Already! burlesque glitter layered on top. I love the combination!
Congratulations on your one year mark! Love the blog, keep up the great work.
My Email: starrynight9790@yahoo.com
Hehe, I’m the same way, Melissa! 🙂 If there’s nail polish, I must take a look…even if I was already there earlier on in the week. For some reason, I always think that there could be a hidden gem that I missed earlier or that there’s new stuff.
Nice color combination! And OPI Glow Up Already! is pretty – one of my former co-workers surprised me with it. For a nail addict, nail polish (especially a color you don’t already have) is the best gift ever! 😀
Thanks for the well wishes! 🙂
Happy one year anniversary!
I’ll admit that I have a bit of a nail polish addiction, but I’m not interested in “recovery”. 🙂 At last count I had just over 150 bottles and I know I’ve added several since then. The Joe Fresh polish that you have as part of your giveaway is on my list sought-afters and I scared the dog with the squee sound I made when I saw it.
Recovery is so…boring anyway! 😛 150+ bottles is a good number. Nice collection, Cindy!
When I found the Joe Fresh flakie polish, I couldn’t believe it. And what’s even better was that there was more than one left. I knew that I had to snatch it up to give away on the blog!
Hehe, I had a similar squeal-scaring incident over polish except I made the sound as I was opening up the packaging on the way back to my home. I startled at least one person because it was loud and unexpected.
Best of luck in this giveaway! 🙂
Happy Blogaversary!
I feel fortunate in my career choice, because as an actor I get to play with makeup a ton! I don’t get to wear my funky colors very often, though, so on my days off I go CRAZY. 🙂 Especially in the summertime when bold colors are everywhere.
That’s cool that you’re an actor! What are some of the roles that you enjoy playing the most?
And what kind of makeup remover do you use? I ask because I’m under the impression that actors wear heavier makeup on the job than, say, the average woman…so I’m curious what remover gets it all off at the end of the day.
I’m a huge neutrals girl! Love any colors that are neutral! I’ve recently been addicted to nail polish and have been buying alot!! I’m still trying to wear all the colors in my collection at least once before I go out and get some more, lol.
I’m starting to get into neutrals more lately. They really put the focus on your features instead of your makeup.
What would you say are your top 3 polishes in your collection?
Hi Lisa!
~Trying~ to wear all the colors in your collection at least once before going out and getting some more. 😛 I TRY, too, but fail miserably. I have so many that I haven’t tried. 😛
What a fun set of cosmetics to giveaway! My fav thing to do is paint my nails. I love everything from subdued neutrals to shocking neons and vampy dark polishes. I also love lipglosses! Shimmery and shiney 🙂
Hi Jeanie!
That’s a full range of colors there! And I’m glad you like all sorts of colors – it really gives you the options to change the shades according to your moods. 🙂
I’m with ya! I love to wear any color on my nails. Don’t have many pinks, though…I’m still looking for the perfect one.
Good luck in the giveaway, Jeanie! 🙂
I recently got into nail polish, and it’s had this amazingly awesome effect on me: I feel more pretty, more feminine. For a girl who used to climb trees, wear torn band shirts, and have my hands covered in paint or mud or grease, I really feel like polish has given me the outlet to girlie-ness Tharp ever had before.
Happy blogiversary, and good luck to all the other entrants!
Glad to hear that nail polish makes you feel pretty, but you’re beautiful even without it. 🙂
I think it’s so cool that you used to climb trees. When I was little, I tried maybe 2 times after being inspired by my older brother who always seemed to be able to climb any and every tree…hehe. I was TERRIBLE at it. Oh well…
Aw, thank you!
When I was young, we had this huge birch tree in our yard. I used to climb to the very top and watch the world go by; it was my favorite thing ever.
That sounds wonderfully relaxing! Where I live, I get to watch the beautiful sunrise. So breathtaking!
Hi Brandi!
So glad that nail polish gives you more confident. I think no matter your personality, gender or mood, there’s always a nail polish to suit you! 🙂
What kind of colors do you like?
Hi!
I absolutely agree, it seems like no matter what the world throws at me I can find a colour to suit or improve my mood. Currently I’m looking for the perfect cerulean blue, but favorites so far are anything bright and fun and flakies! I can’t seem to get enough of my Nubar 2010; I feel like I want to put it on everything.
Hahaha. Nail polish is like the mood picker-upper. 😛
I can’t LIVE without my Urban Decay eyeshadow primers! I have oily lids, and this is the one product that will not, I repeat, WILL NOT cause creases in my shadows! Works like magic. If I were a celebrity, this is the one product I would endorse the heck out of.
At $19, it’s worth every penny.
On another note, Sally Hansen Salon Effects nail decals is my favorite nail product ever. I’ve gotten so many compliments on mine (currently wearing Wild Child).
I’m with you on that, Soledad! After I discovered the Urban Decay Primer Potions, I couldn’t imagine how I wore eye shadow without it! Really makes the shadows vibrant and prevents the dreaded creasing.
Not sure if you’re tried the NYX eye primer, but it works really well and it’s even cheaper than Urban Decay…although the NYX one doesn’t come in the shimmery versions like Greed or Sin.
How long did your manicure last with the Salon Effects? I haven’t tried those yet, but they look interesting.
Hahha. Hi Soledad!
I like the regular Urban Decay primer, but not Eden as it’s too thick for my liking. If you had your own commercial for it, how would it go? 😛
very cool giveaway..im really nail polish obsessed…i love trying new products and new designs..im in love with crackle nail polish now ..-
It seems like every brand is putting out a line of crackle polishes, doesn’t it? What brand and color(s) are you trying now, Lorraine?
Thanks, Lorraine! 🙂
Which brand’s crackle polish do you like the most?
id have to say opi..i want to try sally hansen but i cant seem to get my hands on it
That’s a pity that you can’t get your hands on SH! :S
Happy Anniversary!
Great giveaway, the items are to die for!
I’ve gotten into a nail addiction lately that’s even got me doing my own acrylic nails.
Informative blogs like this make beauty secrets accessible to everyone and isn’t the best part about learning a new trick sharing it with your friends?
Glad you’re digging the giveaway prizes, Christine! We chose them very carefully – they’re all things that we would like ourselves. 🙂 And our readers are the best, so they deserve to win a huge prize!
Yes, I totally agree with you. Knowledge is useless unless you can share it with others. And it’s been a fun journey so far interacting with you and our other readers. It has become a fun online community. 🙂
Hi Christine!
Good luck in the draw!
I love how everyone’s addicted to nail polish! Hahaha. Makes me feel a little less crazy. And yes, that’s the best part. So if you have any secrets about any of the products we’ve reviewed, please let us know. 🙂
I’ve just started painting my nails. Please tell me how to post an image. My latest creation is to use the Jamberry peel and stick polish, then paint a diagonal with crackle. One thing really cool is that if you made a goof, you can remove the crackle and repaint. The nail polish remover does not affect the Jamberry press on nails. How cool is that?
That is pretty cool, Debbie! 🙂 I would love to see what it looks like.
Did you mean that you want to post an image here in the comments to share your manicure with everyone? If you have uploaded it onto a blog, you can cut and paste the link here. If it’s not up on a blog, there are free online services like Lockerz and Twitpic. Hope that helps!
Hi Debbie!
Wow. That does sound cool. I gotta check that out someday. Thanks for letting me know!
I absolutely love nail polish, especially the OPI brand. I paint my nails every week or so and I started this because I noticed that when my nails are painted I could see chips on the edges and they would just generally distract me at school (I know that sounds so ridiculous, but classes get dead boring). So I got some great nail strengthener and ever since then I’ve always painted my nails 🙂 I’d love to win other kinds of beauty supplies because honestly I feel like I don’t know how to use makeup unless it’s straightforward like mascara. But I’m going to learn! ^_^
Yay! Another nail-polish lover! *e-high five*
Oh, I know how boring classes can be. When I was in university, some professors could literally rattle on and on about the diameter of sand and gravel – literally! (We had an exam question on it, even. At the time I memorized it, but now if you ask me, I have no idea. Need to store more useful things in this mushy brain of mine.)
To stay awake during some classes, I used to pop Altoids because the mint was so strong that I couldn’t drift off.
Hi Anita!
Hahahah. I understand. Anything to keep your mind occupied in class, right? 😛
Practice makes perfect. Even if you think you don’t know how to use certain makeup products, all it takes is some courage to try and creativity. You can create so many looks!
Hello!
I have just started obsessing with nail polish! I used to do ballet so I couldn’t ever wear polish, but now I’m a university student and I put on a new polish 1-2 times a week! I just discovered holos and I think I’m in love =)
Thanks for the awesome giveaway!
Yes, holographic polishes are some of the best! 🙂 Companies should definitely make more. Do you have a favorite holo so far?
Hi Kimberly!
Welcome to the obsession. 🙂 Holos are aweeeeeeeesome. Have you tried the Milani 3D Holographic Collection? I love them!
I’m a budding polish collector, with currently only over 100 polishes.
I’m so addicted, than even though I have surgery coming in the next couple of weeks, all I’m worried about at this point is what color to paint my nails for a weekend in the hospital.
🙂 Hi Mary!
Love that you have so many polishes. Do you have a favorite?
I hope your surgery goes well. I’m glad the thought of nail polish is keeping your mind off the worry. 🙂 Please come back and let us know that you are alright. 🙂
A hundred polishes is a great collection! 🙂
I hope that your surgery goes well and that you recuperate quickly. 🙂 All the best! And have you decided which color you plan to wear?
I love finding new layering combos for polish that make them really shine. Right now I used a hot pink opi base coat to brighten up/opaque-afy Deborah Lippmann’s candy shop!
That’s great, Aurora! I think a lot of people don’t try layering combinations enough. There are so many polishes that are lackluster when worn alone, but when you layer them, they take on a whole other personality and really shine!
Ohhh…I love how cute Candy Shop looks. I can just imagine how pretty it is with a hot pink base!
Over the past six months or so, I’ve rediscovered my love of nail polish. I’ve really been enjoying getting inspiration from other nail blogs, as well as coming up with my own creative manicures. It cheers me up to look down and see colorful or flashy nails, especially with the past year being a pretty rough one.
Congrats on your one year! May you have many, many more 🙂
Christine recently posted: I’m disappointed I couldn’t get a better photo of…
Welcome back to the nail-polish addiction…err…I mean family! 😛
Sorry to hear that the past year was rough for you. Hopefully things will get better. It’s good that polish cheers you up – I’ve always thought it was therapeutic.
If you like to see really ‘flashy’ nails, you’ll want to come back tomorrow because I have something really fun scheduled. 🙂
Good luck in the giveaway, Christine! 🙂
Thanks, Christine!
So glad that you fell in love with nail polish again. A great manicure really can perk you up no matter you worries. 🙂
Hmmm, something about me. Well, I’m currently obsessed with nail polish and change polish every three-ish days. I have a ton of makeup and love buying more, but I almost never wear it. I know logically it only takes like 5 minutes to put some on in the morning, but I’m always so tired or in a rush or my son is following me around…
Wow, that was like therapy or something 🙂
I know what you mean about being in a rush in the morning, Vicki. It seems like there’s just not enough time to get ready!
How old is your son? 🙂 Hehe, that’s cute how he follows you around.
Hi Vicki!
I totally understand the not having enough time to put makeup on in the morning thing. Sometimes you can’t spare those 5 minutes!
I love taking out my creativity on my nails, and recently broke up with a boyfriend who only let me take TWO polishes with me on a two week vacation! Well there was more to it than that, but that was the LAST STRAW!
Sorry to hear about the recent break-up with your boyfriend, Angie. I hope you’ll find something who makes you happy!
Hehe, I like how the last straw was about the nail-polish limitation! 😛
Sorry to hear about the break-up. I hope you’re happier now!
Good luck with the draw!
Hi , Congrats on the 1 year . i just broke up with my bf , and on October 29 , it would of been our 2 year aniversary . I’m kinda glad that we broke up tho because now i can wear make up and nail polish . Now that we have broken up , i still dont wear make up because i barley have time because i just had a baby 🙂 . i love wearing mac , and chikaboom .
Wait…when you were with your then-boyfriend, he wouldn’t let you wear makeup and nail polish? That’s weird and controlling! 🙁 Sorry to hear that, but it’s good that you’re positive about moving on with your life.
And congratulations on your little bundle of joy! A girl or a boy? 🙂
I’ve always used makeup – but just the bare necessities. Lately, I’ve been experimenting with different makeup, and now I’ve become hooked! My biggest guilty pleasure is buying too many mascaras and lip glosses. It’s become an addiction! Beauty products mean so much to me – they’re fun and make you feel AND look better about yourself. Amazing blog and great giveaway! xoxo
Glad you like our blog. 🙂 Good luck in the giveaway!
Oh yes…I used to have a lip-gloss addiction. I couldn’t leave the store without picking up a new one – had a huge stash! But then somewhere along the way, I redirected it to nail polish…and it doesn’t look like that addiction’s ending anytime soon. 😛 Hehe
i love makeup! espessially eyeshadows and lipsticks. its so fun to try new colors and styles. im obsessed with nail polish as well. im really into outragous colors that stand out. 😀
I love how more and more people are getting into nail polish! 😀 Also, kudos for liking bold colors. A lot of people play it safe, but it really is fun to wear loud hues.
Do you have any polishes in particular that you’re really loving?
Hi Alicia!
Makeup rules! 🙂 And nail polish! I’m starting to get into outrageous colors, too. Which color is your fave so far?
I do my nails about 3 times a week. Too much, I know.. my poor nail plates are drying out from all the acetone. I also have a deep love for bright eyeshadows… which I can’t wear while I’m at the office. The pretty colours in the polishes are what keep me going during the work week.
Hi Erika!
Three times a week is just peeeeeeeeeerfect! 😛 I do my nails about that many times a week, too… if I’m not too lazy. 🙂
Good luck with the contest!
That’s more often than I paint my nails, but, I know some people who paint their nails daily. If you’re concerned with your nails drying out, maybe you should look into some cuticle cream and cuticle oil. You can rub them into your cuticles, of course, but also on your natural nails to hydrate them.
It’s too bad that you can’t wear bright eye shadow to work. More excuses to wear them on the weekend then! 😛
Im not really a make up artist i do know how to use it…i think… but im into nails and nail art and design. i paint my nails maybe twice a week and create designs for fun i live on youtube just to see what new trends in nails are out
Glad to see another happy nail addict! 😛
What are some nail-art designs you’ve tried?
I don’t think anyone has to be a makeup artist to have fun with makeup! 🙂
What are some of your favorite nail designs?
I’ve been addicted to nail polish and doing my nails since I was a little girl…this summer I’ve been trying to do different things every other day or so….adding some sparkles, changing one nail color…adding flowers/designs…etc. Its a great way to unwind after work in front of the TV I’ve noticed! It seems like I’m always finding myself in the nail polish aisle of every store I’m ….I have a feeling some of you are the same way too! Its sooo addicting, especially these days, when we have so many colors to choose from (believe me, it didn’t used to be this way at ALL!) Looking forward to reading more from your blog!
Hi Ayla!
I agree: painting your nails is very therapeutic, especially after a stressful day. 🙂
I definitely do find myself in the polish aisle everywhere I go. :S It’s so tempting to get all the colors you want, isn’t it?!
Same here – I paint my nails while watching TV. It’s very relaxing!
Isn’t it amazing how just when you think you have all the colors you could possibly want, then something new comes out? 🙂
Hope to read more comments from you in the future. I love interacting with visitors! 😀
GFC: Arianne Cruz
Email: cruz042@csusm.edu
About me: I use BH Cosmetics Foundation Primer and it is amazing 😀 I also love their 24/7 eyeliner. And for concealer, I won a Rimmel Match Perfection in a giveaway and it’s been amazing, really nice coverage. And my fave mascara is L’Oreal Telescopic and for lips, I like to go natural (not nude)
Hi Arianne! Love your name. 🙂
It’s great when you fall in love with winnings from a giveaway, isn’t it? I hope you enjoy the things in this giveaway if you end up winning! Good luck!
I’ve heard good things about the BH Cosmetics Foundation Primer, but never tried it. Good to know that you’re getting good use out of it. 🙂
What’s your favorite natural lipstick or gloss to wear?
hi, I am a makeup Artist. I do not wear a lot of makeup daily, as it is summer time. But I do use my MUFE foundation and Smashbox Primer for special occasions. I love wearing Covergirl’s Lashblast waterproof mascara daily.
Hi Pearl!
What’s your favorite trick/method to use as a makeup artist when applying eyeshadow? I’d love to hear from a professional so I can apply mine better!
Yes, CoverGirl’s Lastblast mascara is awesome! And this is coming from someone who doesn’t even wear mascara daily. Also the price is just right!
Hi, love the blog. Don’t wear much makeup, but I do love polishing my nails! Just got into it last year, after finally getting coordinated enough to polish with my non-dominant hand! Congratulations on your 1-year!
🙂
Glad you love it, Kim! It’s been a lot of fun so far! 🙂
Great to hear that you’ve been practicing at polishing your nails and getting better. What are some of your favorite polishes to wear? Have you tried any nail art?
My favorites are probably China Glaze and Zoya. Haven’t tried any nail art yet. My skills are pretty limited in that area! 🙂
Nice choices – I like both of those brands because they’re not afraid to experiment with unconventional colors!
Do you think you’ll try doing some nail art? All it takes is a few tries…and even if it’s not perfect, I think there’s something really special about doing a unique design. It’s so rewarding every time you look down at your nails. 🙂
I wouldn’t mind trying nail art some time…it looks like fun! 🙂
You should totally try nail art, Kim! 🙂 It is a LOT of fun, and it’s cool knowing that you’re wearing a unique design that not a lot of others will be wearing.
Is there a specific design that you’d be most interested in trying?
I like some that I have seen done with tape…sounds like it might be easy enough for a start! 🙂
Try it! Try itttt! 😀
Hi Kim!
Thanks! Do you have have a favorite nail-polish brand so far? I still am not very coordinated to paint my right hand, but that’s OK. It’s still fun! 😛
I’d have to say my favorites are China Glaze and Zoya…so many pretty colors!
I have just purchased the Dinar Airbrushing System & am practicing using it on myself for foundation… But, I think because I am a beginner at it I could use some helpful tips & advice.
GFC = Mistaken29
I’ve always been intrigued by airbrushing systems, but never tried it. I just know that you should exfoliate prior to airbrushing for more even coverage.
If any Swatch And Learn readers have experience, could you please let Karina know any tips and tricks?
Congrats!
My favorite primer is Laura Geller’s Ethereal spackle! Absolutely love it! it give a great lumizing look and its so light. Great for summer
I follow u via google friend connect and on twitter.
GFC – Amy Bromberg
Twitter: @Abbeautycall
thanks for the chance to win
Ethereal spackle! Hehe, what a name! 😛 I love the ‘dewy’ look…so pretty, especially for summer. Do you use any highlighting powders or creams?
Good luck in the giveaway, Amy! 🙂
And thanks for following us!
Hi Amy! Thanks!
So it’s a double-duty primer that brightens the complexion? Sounds like a gem!
Thanks for the follow. 🙂
Hey, I’m Jessica. My favourite nail polish color is Cute as a Button by Essie, and I own no MAC, L’Oreal, Rimmel , MUFE, Benefit, China Glaze, YSL, MUA, Max Factor, Revlon, Napoleon Perdis, Australis, Shiseido, Orly, QVS, Natio, Lush, Boobi Brown, Jane Iredale, DB(Designer Brands), Chanel, and Burt’s Bees. I probably don’t own a lot of anything else either. Haha.
Jessica recently posted: Starter for Streetwise: How to: water marble nails!
Hi Jessica!
Cute as a Button really is cute as a button. It looks perfect for spring, summer… winter and fall. 😛
It’s funny you chose to list out all the brands that you don’t own. Hahaha. It literally made me laugh!
Good luck!
Wow, that’s a long list of brands! In time, you’ll probably acquire some of those. 😉
I took a look at your blog and read your first post. Good instructions. Now I can’t wait to see photos of your water-marble nails! 🙂
Happy Blogaversary!
I don’t wear makeup much, but when I do my favorite product is Too Faced Magic Wand Foundation in Caribbean Cocoa. It is the first foundation I’ve found that’s really matched my skin tone and it goes on flawlessly. Also, that new Falsies mascara by Maybelline is unbelievably good, like seriously! I’ve recently become consumed with my obsession for nail polish! Oddly though, I only paint my nails about once a week.
Email Address: lyragins@yahoo.com
Congrats again and thanks for this giveaway!
Thanks, Lailaa!
I love Too Faced, but I’ve never tried their foundation. Lucky for me, a drugstore brand (Maybelline Dream Smooth Mousse) works great for me. And OMG, I really adore their Falsies mascara, too!
Welcome to the nail-polish club (a.k.a. Swatch And Learn)! 😛 Once a week is plenty if you don’t have time. What’s your favorite color?
It seems like a lot of people are obsessed about nail polish lately! 😀 You’re in good company, Laila!
I’ve always loved nail polish, but I only started seriously collecting back in 2008. Along the way, I’ve convinced many friends to paint their nails more often. Some of them, I’ve even turned into fellow addicts! Hahaha! There’s just something uplifting about nail polish – it’s inexpensive, but it still makes you feel great when you’re wearing it.
What’s the most recent new brand that you’ve tried for nail polish?
I don’t wear makeup that often, but I do paint my nails a lot. Right now I’ve been really into the black and sliver shatter polish by OPI. 🙂
Welcome!
I haven’t really gotten into the shatter look yet. Still doesn’t really appeal to me, but I like seeing it on other people because it’s different.
Good luck!
I have both of those shatter polishes by OPI and love them. They’re a great way to refresh a manicure that you’re getting tired of, and it’s really cool how you get a random pattern on each nail.
Do you think you’ll be getting any of the other OPI Shatter colors? I still haven’t tried all of them out.
I first started to use makeup when I was a freshman. I love doing smokey eye looks. My favorite makeup would probably be mascara and eyeliner. I wear it everyday!
my email is mylifeascarrie@gmail.com
🙂
Carrie
Carrie recently posted: Shopping Wishlist: ASOS
Smokey eye looks are my favorite, Carrie! They look mysterious and really bring out your eyes.
Can you recommend a good mascara for me that thickens lashes, but that doesn’t leave them feeling stiff?
Hi Carrie!
What kind of colors do you usually use for your smokey eye? I love using blues! My fave makeup is my eyeliner, too. 😛
I am a nail polish junkie! I just discovered your blog and I LOVE it. Congratulations on your anniversary!
Good luck in the giveaway, Erin! 🙂
Glad that you found Swatch And Learn. Hope you’ll come back often since we update daily and that you’ll leave us a comment or two. I love reading and replying to them. 🙂
Thanks, Erin!
So happy that you love the blog. 😛 If you have any suggestions for us, we’d love to hear them because we’re always looking to improve.
I used to paint my nails about once a week, but since I started my blog, I paint them almost daily… sometimes more than once a day if I’m not happy with the 1st mani :S
GFC: Anutka
email: angalek@gmail.com
blogged: http://giveawayland.blogspot.com/2011/07/giveaways-ending-july-22nd-july-25th.html
Congrats on your blog anniversary!!!
Anutka recently posted: Borghese Berry Confezione…
I know what you mean, Anutka! Since blogging, I’ve started to paint my nails more often. Not daily yet, but maybe sometime soon! 😛
Thanks, and good luck in the giveaway! 🙂
Oh man. The blog has “made” me do so many things, like buy things I don’t really need, venture outside my comfort zone and experiment more. I love it! 🙂
Im not a heavy makeup person. But I love sparkly bright eyeshadows, they make a big impact without making my face feel cakey with makeup!
There’s a lot to be said for the subtly of makeup. When a person cakes it on, it detracts from their natural beauty, in my opinion. But if you wear some, it enhances your best features.
Sparkly bright shadows are pretty and fun especially for summer. Do you have a favourite shade and brand that you tend to always reach for or do you like trying new things?
Hi Ashley!
I love sparkly shadows, too! I can’t seem to stop buying them. What shadow color is your favorite?
Hi…I just stumbled on your website while doing a Google search on the Alicia Silverstone 5 piece brush set. Nice, UNBIASED review, with pros and cons equally balanced. You put it in perspective when you said the user should decide what set to get depending on her needs. I was sorely tempted to pick up this set, but since I use minerals and very little make up (Getting Older…sheeeeeeeeeesh….LOL…..I’m re-thinking this particular set.
LOVE how you reply to every individual question. Takes a lot of time, effort and CARING!!! Here’s wishing you and Fiona not just a HAPPY 1ST….but ZILLIONS!!! I’m bookmarking this site and will visit often. Take care you two and HAPPY HAPPY HAPPY 1ST!!!
Glad you appreciated my honest review on that Alicia Silverstone brush set. 🙂 Even when PR companies send free products sometimes for me to try out, I really feel strongly about providing my honest opinion whether it makes the product look good, bad, or just average. Swatch And Learn will always be about integrity and honesty. No amount of money or freebies can change this blogger’s morals.
Trish, I’m also really happy that you’ve noticed how Fiona and I reply to every individual question. I do it because I LOVE interacting with readers, learning new things from others, and growing not only as a blogger, but as part of a larger online community in general. This is a great place to share your ideas in a fun and safe way! Plus, it also helps me justify my beauty purchases and nail-polish addiction sometimes… hehehehe…
Thank you so much for your well wishes! Hehehe…wow, ZILLIONS is a lot! 😛
I look forward to reading more comments from you! 🙂 It always makes me really happy to hear that visitors like Swatch And Learn enough to bookmark it and return again. 🙂
Hi Trish!
Welcome! And thanks for the birthday wishes. 🙂 Your comment made me smile!
Good luck!
Hi 🙂
I just stumbled across your blog, and I have to say I am very VERY glad I did!
I have to admit that I’m a nail polish addict. I always loved makeup and nail polish but in the past year alone I think I bought almot 100 polishes! I just can’t seem to stop myself! It’s so pretty and fun!
P.S- I noticed you respond to almost every comment! That is impressive!
*High-five to another nail-polish addict* Hehe, maybe I shouldn’t encourage, but I just can’t help it! I love knowing that I’m “not alone”…hehe. 😛
Wow, 100 polishes in one year is impressive! What are some of your all-time favourites? For me, Clarins 230 is easily in my Top 10 list.
Oh, I reply to every single comment anyone leaves on my posts. Sometimes it may take me more than a day, but I always reply to every comment on my posts eventually. 🙂 Usually I don’t comment on Fiona’s posts unless I have something to add. It’s fun to see what other people think, whether it’s along the same wavelength or very different. We can always learn from others.
Hi Koral!
Love that you are addicted to nail polish! I can totally understand how you ‘can’t seem to stop’ buying them. I have the same issue!
Mary and I try to respond to almost every comment because we want to have a personal interaction with our readers. We want to know what you really think! 🙂 So feel free to offer suggestions and feedback. We welcome them!
Good luck in the draw!
I am such a makeup and nail polish addict! I am always buying makeup and polishes much to my husbands dismay. I change my nail polish every few days since I have so many. I decided to start a blog and I am just getting started! I love your blog!
Becky recently posted: Introduction
Nice – congratulations on starting your blog. It’s going to be a fun and creative outlet for you! 🙂
Hmm…maybe if you paint your husband’s nails sometime, he might just change his mind and get addicted to it, too! 😛 Haha
Hi Becky!
Hahha. I’m a makeup and nail polish addict who’s always buying too much, also. I’m so happy to hear you’ve started your own blog – It’s a great way to express yourself and get creative. And I love checking out what other beauty addicts are doing!
I have recently become obsessed with nail polish! in one months time I went from having 3 to 115! Painting my nails and trying to come up with new designs helps to relax the stress of the day away and I love it 🙂
Amber Fullerton recently posted: BIG nail mail haul!!
Whoa – 3 to 115 bottles in ONE MONTH? I think you deserve some sort of medal! That is incredible growth!
I feel the same way as you, Amber. Nail polish relaxes me and is my creative avenue of choice. 🙂
Good luck in the giveaway!
Hi Amber!
Another addict with a nail-polish obsession – LOVE IT! That’s an awesome gain – from 3 to 115 in just one month! Do you have fun staring at your new collection? I know I would!
I agree: I love unwinding with a bottle… of nail polish, that is!
I love to paint my nails. I try to change it up twice a week. I love lip glosses too I want more, but my focus is on the polishes, haha
Thank you so much for this! Happy Blogaversary 🙂
MissMidnightBlue@gmail.com
Do you have a particular base and top coat combination that always works well for you? And have you tried drying drops?
Well, hello there!
What’s your favorite nail polish to wear?
I’m into lip glosses, too, but I just never remember to reapply. LOL. Nail polish is great because you only need to apply once. 😛
Hello! 🙂
Congratulations on your blogaversary
Thanks! 🙂 Good luck in the giveaway!
Hi Moon!
Thanks for the birthday wishes. 🙂
Happy (almost) One year Anniversary! It has to be so exciting for you guys. My cousin and I have been thinking about starting a blog, but haven’t gotten it going yet. Thanks so much for the giveaway. People should be giving you prizes instead. ; )
I am currently on a nail polish restriction from my fiancé. I change my nail polish close to every 2 days! It’s terrible. I always want to try new things but of course can never decide on what it is I want to do. I also love Maybeline’s ExpertWear eyeshadow. I have 4 or 5 sets I like to play around with.
Email: Krystena09@yahoo.com
Thanks, Kryste! Hmm. I never thought about others giving us prizes for our 1-year. I guess it’s like receiving birthday presents, isn’t it? And I love b-day presents! Ahahh. Anyway, Mary and I just want to share some of our favorite products with our readers. We really appreciate everyone’s support for the last year (and hoping many years to come) and just want to give our thanks in way of makeup and nail polish!
I think you should totally start your blog with your cousin! It’s a lot of fun and definitely fuels your imagination and creativity. It’s great to have a partner in crime because you can bounce ideas off each other and share the work. 🙂 The only downside to having a blog is that I find I buy more – I use the blog to justify my spending! 😛
A nail-polish restriction, huh? Sad face. But at least buying nail polish is cheaper than, say, buying designer shoes? I think that’s a wonderful argument. 😛
Thanks so much! 🙂 I’m really excited, too!
You and your cousin should start a blog. Not only is it a lot of fun, but it also helps you ‘justify’ beauty purchases…hehehe!
Which of the Maybelline ExpertWear eye shadows is your favourite?
HAPPY BLOGAVERSARY! I had always been scared of trying brighter and colorful makeup looks. This blog has been so helpful in helping me expand my tastes in makeup and try different colors and brands. For summer I love the acid greens and bright oranges (thought i’m still scared of trying that) that i am seeing. By the way, while scrolling down i glanced at many comments about nail polish. I love putting a huge gallop of nail polish on so that when it chips i can peel it away. It is not so the ease of removing without polish remover, but the fun of it that makes me do it, kind of like peeling glue from skin 😀
-Nusra
Thank you! 🙂
So glad that Swatch And Learn has encouraged you to try new things! I also like trying beauty products that are out of my comfort zone – that’s how I’ve discovered some wonderful items!
Thanks!!!!!!!!
So happy that you’re trying bright colors and different shades. Makeup is all about having fun, I think!
Yeah, it seems like everyone loves nail polish – and who could blame them?! Love that you like to peel away nail polish. It’s a fun fact to know! 🙂
HI happy anniversary !
I have recently become addicted to nail polish again, I went for a few years with just clear but all the nice sephora opi and drugstore colors have tempted me , and now I really want to try konad plates too .
You should definitely try the Konad (or Bundle Monster) image plates! They take nail polish to the next level, in my opinion, and they make it easy to create unique nail art!
Hi Amanda!
I’m not a huge fan of Sephora by OPI polishes, but they do have some nice colors! Happy to hear that you fell off the nail-polish wagon. 😛
Congrats on your year anniversary! I love makeup. I have since I was young, but I had no one else around to help me learn, so I was never very skilled at it. And as I got older, married, had a son… I kinda strayed away from makeup and my favorite: nail polish. I have recently renewed my interest in makeup and polish, and am trying to improve on my lacking skills. I have found a new love for beauty blogs and have been soaking up everything I can! 🙂
Thanks, Michelle! 🙂
I grew up in a similar situation. My mom hardly wore any makeup, so I learned about most makeup by myself through reading magazines and just experimenting with makeup at sleepover parties…hehe! So now I have no one to blame for my obsession except myself. 😛
Hope you keep coming back to Swatch And Learn. 🙂 We update it daily, so there’s always something new to see. And I’d love to read more comments from you.
Hi Michelle!
When I was growing up, no one taught me how to wear makeup, either. My mom wasn’t against it, but she hardly wears any other than lipstick. So I didn’t get into it until I was in my teens. But I think the fun part is experimenting and learning – and I really am having a blast. So I hope you are, too! 🙂
Thanks so much for the giveaway!
A beauty related fact: I am currently sporting a HUGE burn on my forehead from a curling iron. Ugggggh.
fashuneesta[at]aol[dot]com
OUCH! That sounds like it’s really painful and in an awkward spot.
Once my friend burned me accidentally with a hot glue gun. I still have a circular scar on my right wrist because of it.
Awwwwwww! I hope it heals soon, without a scar. 🙂 Good luck!