Fashion
Nail polish serves as inexpensive perk for women
October 5, 2012
New fashion trends can be frustrating, especially for a college student with limited resources. Why should we need separate wardrobes for every season? My inability to purchase all new clothes every season has me researching new ways to wear this season’s hottest trends in an affordable way.
I believe the easiest and most inexpensive way to stay trendy is nail polish. Nail polishes range in price from $0.99 to $30 and are sold in a never-ending array of colors. The Internet is a giant database of nail art designs and tutorials that can make any polish you own seem new again.
In my first column, I said that oxblood and emerald are the colors of the season. The nail polish company Essie has released a new fall color called “Skirting the Issue” that retails for around $8 and is a perfect way to wear oxblood.
Sally Hansen sells an emerald polish called “Emerald City” that retails for $2.50. These are just two examples of how trends can be worn on nails.
Courtney Stout, a junior majoring in art, is well versed in the world of nail art. At last count, she had over 160 bottles of nail polish. After she had knee surgery, she needed a hobby to keep her occupied while recovering, so she started practicing nail art.
Now, two years later, she is known for intricate yet classy designs, such as a blue-green fish scale pattern and a style known as “caviar nails,” which uses tiny black beads pressed onto the nail to look like fish eggs.
Perhaps her magnum opus is her set of “Doctor Who”- inspired nails. “Doctor Who” is a British television show that enjoys a cult following.
Stout is always looking for interesting polishes. “I try to be frugal and wait until [nail polish] goes on sale, but sometimes I just can’t help myself,” said Stout about buying new bottles.
Stout finds inspiration from opposite ends of the style spectrum. One end is classic, clean lines and colors. The other end is over-the-top, almost tacky designs. In fact, she was originally inspired to start practicing nail art because of Katy Perry’s three-dimensional sushi nails.
You certainly don’t need to become a nail guru like Stout to have trendy nails. One easy design for fall is a tan and black French manicure. Whatever your personal style is, you will be able to find a nail polish color to complement your wardrobe.
Amanda White is a junior majoring in journalism. She appreciates good books, good style, and good conversation.