Cancer Awareness Manicure

At the beginning of July, 120+ Nail Polish Lovers/Bloggers were brought together on Instagram by Chloe of @tippedoffnails

It was a honour to be invited to take part in the #cancerawarenesscollab which would be featured on Instagram on 2 July. Chloe also participated in The Race For Life on the same date, to raise funds for Cancer Research UK. She herself was diagnosed with Hodgkin Lyphoma in 2016 and thankfully beat it. An incredibly Brave young lady. 

There are various colours of ribbons representing different types of cancers. 

I eventually chose a Lavender colour scheme to represent all cancers. I've lost a loved one to this terrible illness which is one of the hardest things I've ever dealt with.

Yet on a positive note more people are surviving their fight, like Chloe. 

It's important to support Cancer Reserch UK to help others & their families, if you're able to make a donation, no matter how small, please do so. Most of us have family/friends who are or have been affected by this, help find a cure. 

For my design I used OPI Purple Palazzo Pants & Alpine Snow, 2 coats of each covered to full opacity. I placed 5 crystals on my middle finger, sealing with top coat. The Ribbons are stamped using plate BP26 from Born Pretty and Big Bling Stamper from Big Jelly Stamper. I love this stamper, it picks up much better than any other I've tried to date.

This Manicure lasted well over a week…

To see all of the other lovely designs created for this Cancer Awareness Collaboration and the Beautiful Collage featuring everyone's work, search #cancerawarenesscollab on Instagram. 

Be sure to check out Chloe's Instagram @tippedoffnails and her blog it's full of reviews, swatches & beautiful nail art x

Thanks for reading,

Jenny x

Instagram @paintedbypinky
Twitter @paintedbypinky 

#cancerawareness #nailart #nails #notd #nailblog #nailsofinstagram

Summer Pretties from Leighton Denny

Hi Lovelies, 

After a long break due to health issues, I'm happy to be back. 

I'm sharing today, two gorgeous polishes from Leighton Denny

If you follow me on Instagram you may have already seen photos of these swatches.

First up is Skies in Bloom, a cute pastel blue polish. 

These photos were taken after 4 days of wear.

Next is Mines a Rosé, I’d describe as pale coral/pastel peach. 

The brush isn't as wide as I'm used to, I found it to be fairly easy, using the 3 stroke method. 

The Formula of these cream polishes is lovely to use, they are highly pigmented giving my desired opacity in just 2 coats. Very shiny without top coat, however I always use topcoat to prevent chipping and lengthen longevity. 

I used Leighton Denny Crystal Top Coat to complete these manicures. They lasted between 10-12 days which I'm delighted with. Both polishes are perfect summer colours I will wear often.

Base coat - OPI Envy Original

I have a few more untried shades and glitters of this brand to share in the coming months. 
Thanks for reading,
Jenny x

*Products used are my own

Sparkle Like A Unicorn - Nails Inc

🦄 Unicorn Lovers 🦄 

Let me transport you to a land where the sky is shimmering with iridescent fairy dust. Unicorns are flying elegantly above the clouds and every believer will find their pot of treasure at the end of the Rainbow!

That treasure comes in the form of a Limited Edition Treat from Nails Inc - Sparkle Like a Unicorn Duo of Nail Polishes. 

As soon as I received an email informing me these had been released early online only, I knew I had to have them! 

Look how gorgeous the packaging is, the purple box goes so well with the beautiful holographic features of the Unicorns. 

I'll start with Rainbow Wishes - A charming duochrome polish which takes on many soft alluring looks depending on the light. I started with just 2 light coats which resulted in a coverage that was almost opaque. 

The look is quite a pale purple/pink/blue colour shift which is so pretty.

I added an additional coat later in the day, this made a quite a marked difference. In natural light the coverage is opaque with a much darker colour. The shift between shades and shine really are spectacular. 

Onto Dream Dust - This Rose Gold duochrome polish has shades from a dusky rose, flipping through to the shiniest 3D textured/flaky gold, with a slight purple offering in some light positions.

I applied just 1 coat for a fully opaque coverage.

This polish is very beautiful indeed, a firm favourite.

The cost of this set is £15 for 2 x 14ml bottles. This is a great price as most of Nails Inc Polishes are around £14 each when newly released.

These have sold out on the Nails Inc website, however if you're quick, Debenhams (direct link) have them in stock at the same price!

I hope you love this set as much as me...

Jenny

x

*Products used are my own

#notd #nails #unicornnails #nailblogger #duochromenails #rosegoldnails #nailblog

Ciaté London - Mani Marker in Beauty Queen

Happy April, 

One of my favourite months of the year, with nature bursting into new life and beauty all around us. The weather has treated us quite well this week. I visited a local nursery over the weekend and bought some pretty pots and Oriental Lily Bulbs, I adore Lilies, my favourite flowers.  

I'm a bit behind with todays review. My friend Susan who blogs at Sparkling Magpie, sent me a gift a couple of months ago. She thought I might like to share my opinion of Ciaté London's Mani Marker with my readers. Absolutely - Thanks Susan x

You should check out her website, she writes about Jewellery, lots of lovely sparkly pieces at sparklingmagpie.blogspot.co.uk

The colour I received is called Beauty Queen, it's a bright fushia pink, perfect!

Ciate says:-

Use on bare nails only for even application

Step 1: Shake well and push the nib down for 45-60 seconds to release product

Step 2: Apply one coat of colour only onto bare nails, making sure to keep the same pressure from cuticle to tip

Step 3: Once dry apply glossy topcoat

I followed the above steps, it did take closer to 2 minutes for the polish to fill the nib. 

I found it difficult to get close enough to the sides of the Nails with the first few attempts, but as I got the hang of positioning the tip it became easier. 

Applying the same amount of pressure to get the Polish even all over was rather hit and miss, I ended up with some slight streaking. The manicure looked rather flat until I applied top coat, which gave it a nice shine. 

Due to the thinness of the formula, the ridges and imperfections in my nails were very noticeable. 
It started to peel after the end of the 2nd day which disappointed me. It would have lasted longer with a base coat I've no doubt. 
The colour is much pinker (same as that on box) than shown in the photo below, it came out looking more red than pink for some reason (my fault)!

RESULT - For a quick mani, it does exactly what it says on the box. Great if you can't wear bright colours to work and you're going straight out with your girls. You can apply anywhere, the quick drying formula means you're good to go in a few minutes. Very handy to have in your bag for unexpected emergencies when you need to glam up quickly. 

So there you have my take on the Mani Marker!

Have you used this product yet? What did you think?

Catch you soon,

Jenny x

*Products used are my own


#nails #notd #nailblog #nailpolish #nailpolishreview #manicure

Happy Floral Manicure

Hi again,
We've had some lovely sunny days this week, I spotted the first daisy of the year sitting pretty in my lawn. That and the smell of fresh cut grass inspired me to paint a bright cheerful mani. Such a shame it's tipping down with rain today!
This type of nail art is really simple, you just need a dotting tool and your choice of at least 3 colours of polish.

I used
Astor Cosmetics Quick N GO! in number 326 for the base (green)
Rimmel London UK Lasting Finish in Cute as a Kitten Heel (yellow)
Nail Art in I Live in an Igloo (white)

Firstly I painted 2 coats of the green base coat to all but my ring fingers, for these I used the yellow polish.
When dry I began the flowers... drip a small amount of white onto my nail mat (you can use foil), the flowers are made up of 5 dots joined together. You can practice on a piece of paper first. I did have to regularly renew the white as it dries fairly quick and becomes gloopy.
When the white dots are dry, I applied the same technique with using the yellow, placing a single dot in the centre of the flowers.
Next the ring fingers - I used the dotting tool and placed random green and white dots half way up the nail.
Wait for the dots to dry completely before applying top coat to prevent smudging.

I really love the look of this design, it's come out just as I imagined. The colours work well together.
I hadn't used Astor Nail Polish until now. The formula has great coverage, the brush is lovely and wide, making it a dream to apply the polish. It goes on smoothly in just one or two strokes, I will be buying more for sure!

Base Coat - OPI Nail Envy Original
Top Coat - Seche Vite

I hope you've enjoyed this quick blog, see you all soon lovelies...

Jenny x

*Items used are my own


#nailart #floralnailart #dottynails #pantone2017 #nails #nailsoftheday

Sponge Marble Manicure

Hi Ladies,

Today I'm trying out a Sponge Marble Manicure.
I've picked a lovely mix of Pink, Grey & White Polishes. Let's get started...

Preparation, break a small piece from a make up sponge. You'll also need a piece of foil or manicure mat and a tweezers to grip the sponge.
I applied 1 coat of the pink shade I decided on as a base. It covered really well, for this type of manicure it didn't require any further coats.
Next step, I dripped some grey polish onto my mani mat and pressed the sponge into the polish. I dabbed the sponge a few times before applying to nail to ensure the transfer wasn't to thick.
Then gently pressed the sponge over my nails to make a marble pattern I was satisfied with.
I repeated the previous step with the white polish, this time sponging a much smaller amount of colour onto the nails.
Dry for a few minutes, top coat and you're done! Simples...

I used
Base Coat - OPI Nail Envy
Models Own - Pastel Pink (Sticky Fingers)
Itsy Nails - City Girl (Grey)
Nail Art - I Live in an Igloo (White)
Top Coat - Seche Vite

I love the pink and grey together, although this mani would look great with all pastel shades. It's super easy to create and I love the effect.
What do you think? Will you be trying this, let me know how it goes.

Much love,
Jenny x

*Products used are my own

#Nails #notd #nailart #nailblogger #naillover #nailpromote #manicure

Blobbicure - Nail Art

Hi Lovelies,
I'm attempting a Blobbicure today...
I came across this form of nail art on Instagram. There's lots of great pics and video tutorials on there from some very talented ladies.

My choice of polishes are:-
Barry M Gelly in Black Forest for the base
Models Own Holochrome in Polychromatic (blue)
Models Own Holochrome in Nacreous (purple)

I applied a base coat of OPI Nail Envy and 1 thin coat of Black Forest.
The next step must be done one nail at a time.
Apply a coat that's slightly thicker than usual, then immediately drop your chosen colours in blobs using the tip if your brush in whatever pattern you like. This can be planned beforehand or at random.
You will see the drops spread and level in with the base colour. If you are too slow with this stage the base begins to set, preventing the colours from spreading.
It took around 30 minutes before the polish was touch dry enough to apply a top coat. I used Seche Vite.

OK - The result is not as I wanted!
I realised that I was too slow dropping the colours on my 1st pinky nail, the polish started to dry and I ended up with dots!
Then I dropped a bit too much on other nails. Now that I've recognised these mistakes, hopefully my next attempt at a Blobbicure it will be improved.
I love the colour mix, and look forward to trying the Holochromes in a mani.

Have you tried this type of nail art?
I'd love to see your pics, you can email me at paintedbypinky@gmail.com
or tag me on Twitter or Instagram @paintedbypinky
Follow my blog on Bloglovin - Paintedbypinky!

Until next time,
Jenny x

*Products used are my own

Pretty Pinky - Hello Kitty 40th Birthday Collection

Hi All,
Today I've opted for another of OPI's Collections - Hello Kitty!
This is a Limited Edition Set that was brought out to celebrate Hello Kitty's 40th Birthday in 2016.
It contains 6 full size 15ml polishes, in a delightful box that upon opening I found cutouts that can be arranged to form cute scenes for display purposes. If only I had more shelf space to put it on show!
It's the perfect feel good collection for any girl, of any age group... if you love Hello Kitty or painting your nails, you will LOVE this!

Colours included are:-
Kitty White
Let's be Friends
Look at My Bow
Say Hello Kitty
5 Apples Tall
Never Have Too Mani Friends

I've raved about OPI being one of my favourite brands, its definitely up there in the Top 3!
Why I love OPI - The formula, coverage, longevity and easy to use brush. Then of course there's the stunning shades with their quirky names and the lovely collections and limited editions the company continuously excite their fans with.

I've used a few of the shades from this set, I did a previous post on the lightest shade Kitty White back in December. You can view that here

Today's pick is Let's Be Friends, a subtle pink creme shade. This formula was lovely to apply, just as I would expect from OPI. It took 3 coats to get a full gel like coverage. I left 10 minutes drying time between coats.
On my ring fingers I used Starry-Eyed for Dear Daniel, a candy pink sparkly glitter. Just 2 thin coats gave a lovely even opaque look. Very quick drying time, 2-3 minutes!
I'm more than pleased with the high shine, Pretty Pinky look...

Although it's difficult to get hold of this collection, you can buy the individual polishes. I've found the best prices at nailpolishdirect.co.uk this link takes you direct to the Hello Kitty section.

Base Coat - Nail Envy Original
Top Coat   - Seche Vite

So girls, will you be adding any of these cute colours to your polish stash?
I'd love to read your comments.
I'm also new to Bloglovin, it would be great if some of you lovelies would give me a follow here!
Hugs,
Jenny x

*Products used are my own

Fifty Shades of Grey Collection - OPI

Hi Girls,
The release of Fifty Shades Darker Movie is a little over a week away on February 10th (UK).
I'm looking forward to seeing the hot scenes with Mr Desirable Jamie Dornan as Christian Grey!

OPI launched the Fifty Shades of Grey Collection in 2015 to tie in with the original film.
I bought the set of minis and thought the timing was perfect to dig deep into my nail polish stash and bring them back out.
There's something to suit everyone in this collection, rich crèmes in varying shades of grey and a luscious red, silver metallic shimmer and a multi silver/grey glitter.

The colours from left to right:-
My Silk Tie
Dark Side of the Mood
Romantically Involved
Embrace the Gray
Shine for Me
Cement the Deal

I'm wearing Embrace the Gray (light) and Dark Side of the Mood (Dark) on my middle finger.
I found the formula easy to apply, I used 3 coats of the lighter colour and 2 coats of the dark.
Drying time was quick.
The Polishes look a little darker on the nails than they do in the bottle.

I've checked online, you can still purchase this set from various sellers, however it is slightly pricier than it originally was. Alternatively the full size bottles are available individually, the best price I could find is Nail Polish Direct for £7.95 each

Base Coat - OPI Nail Envy
Top Coat   - Seche Vite

Thanks for reading, any comments I'd love to hear.
Have a Fab February,
Jenny x

*Products used are my own

Nails Inc - Clarence Avenue Multivitamin

Hi Ladies, for today's manicure I'm using one of my favourite brands, Nails Inc.
I was introduced to Nails Inc after accidentally coming across a Today's Special Value on QVC UK.
I had never spent so much on nail polish before, only ever picking up the odd bottle every 6 months or so from a supermarket or chemist. How things have changed!

I could tell the difference immediately, My nails had the smoothest, glossiest finish I had ever seen. Nails Inc looked great and lasted! I was hooked, this was the start of my love for Nail Polish.

I have chose Clarence Avenue - Multivitamin.
This is the first time I've used this Deep Purple Shade.

The silver top on the bottle lifts off to reveal a smaller round cap, easy to work with. The brush is wide, with a rounded end, it delivers the perfect shape around the cuticles, less mess, quicker cleanup.
The formula paints on perfectly, not too thick or thin, you can almost get away with one coat! I used 2 coats because I wanted a darker look with full opacity.
This manicure lasted around 7 days without signs of wear.
I'm happy with that!

The formula of multivitamins is enriched with a complex of Vitamin B5, C and E,  it has the ability to stimulate advanced keratin production, hydrate and nourish, which promotes healthy nails. It also features Nails inc’s patented Regenerating Complex (a two-fold Aldehyde, Zinc and Calcium blend), that aids harder, stronger nails.

Base Coat - Nails Inc Nailkale
Top Coat - Seche Vite

Have you tried any of Nails Inc Superfood Polishes or Treatments?
What did you think? I look forward to hearing your experiences.

Jenny x

*Products used are my own

Gingerbread - Barry M Limited Edition

Hello lovely ladies, it's been a while since my last post, mainly due to illness. I had so many plans for New Years Day and My Christmas Presents, but just couldn't get the motivation between pills & sleep. Now 2017 is in full swing and I have some major catching up to do.

My first Mani of the year is Gingerbread a Limited Edition by Barry M exclusively for Superdrug.
This came as a duo with Icicle, a Holographic Glitter that would work well on its own or as a Top Coat. They are presented in the sweetest of boxes, a small pink house... You couldn't fail to love it!
Here comes the bad news, it was a free gift when spending over £7 on Barry M products. Unfortunately this offer has now finished, however if you really love the look of this set keep a look out on eBay!

Gingerbread is a Warm Copper Shimmer Polish, I found to be a thin formula, easy to apply and quick drying. I used 2 coats but if you desire an increased opaque look you could easily build up extra coats without it looking too thick.
This polish has excellent longevity, I removed after 10 days, there was no wear or chips, it looked as good as the day it was first applied.
I can't wait to try out some more similar textures of Barry M. Top Banana! Ha do they still say that...

Base Coat - OPI Nail Envy Original
Top Coat - Leighton Denny Crystal Finish

So that's one down, next coming real soon...
My Nail Painting Mojo is BACK!!!

Sending Love & Wishes of Good Health for 2017
Jenny x

*Products used are my own


#nails #notd #nailblogger #nailpolish #naillover