Polished.

After my last trip to Milk & Honey Spa in Austin, I became a loyal fan of Sparitual nail polish. I purchased a deep red-ish shade and have been wearing it non-stop. I have never gotten so many compliments on a nail color, so I felt obligated to share! 

It is called "Kiss the Cook", from their "Earthy Low Note" Collection. 

Get it at Milk & Honey or at www.sparitual.com. 

This color is amazing, it lasts so long & doesn't chip easily.

I never try anything too wild on my nails. I usually want either nude, pale pink, deep purple, a dark red or a soft gray. These are my go-to colors, and they work with pretty much everything in my wardrobe. 

Innatendu is the best nude out there. I have tried hundreds, and this is really the best. Glossy & chic. When I'm in the mood for something a little more fun & feminine, I always do Ballerina, which is the perfect super-soft pink. I'm not a huge fan of bubblegum shades & this is a sort of sophisticated version of OPI Bubblebath. 

I'm almost starting to get sick of this shade, but I can't stop using it because it is just so versatile. 

I like Vendetta for my toes. I've had it as a manicure but it was a little bit of a hassle (ie. I didn't feel comfortable wearing the coral blouse I had planned on wearing because all together it would be way too much!). This is an amazing pedicure color, & Lo Bosworth is a fan!

And lastly, I wanted to share my thoughts on the long lasting gel manicure. 

I've tried it, of course, and it is amazing. 

Mine stayed on for weeks, and it looked pretty flawless. Here is my only complaint-- the gel that they use on top of your natural nail does not allow your nail to breathe, and once the gel is removed (and say you are ready to get a regular manicure again...) you will find that your nails are brittle and not quite as healthy. Bottom line, if you want natural and healthy nails, avoid it. IF you are in a crunch and need your nails to be perfecto, go for it. Also ideal if you are taking a long vacation & can't be bothered with a mani.

Nothing is worse than dry hands!! I picked up the Clarins Hand and Nail Treatment in Paris this winter, when my paws were super dry. I fell in love with it, and now I always keep a tube of it in my purse. 

Get it at www.clarins.com.

Also, since I rely on this pretty simple polish wardrobe, I use Essie Matte from time to time. It creates a matte finish when applied over any color, which I love. Get it at www.essie.com

And lastly, this is the best top coat out there. I suggest investing in your favorite shades & top coat, and toting them with you to the nail place. Especially if you drop into a not so fancy nail place, which I frequently do! 

www.seche.com

And don't forget your post pedi sandals!! 

Get 'em at www.havianas.com