What’s On Your Nails? is a series focusing on my fellow beauty bloggers and industry insiders, their favorite nail polish and other hot nail topics. Fanatics, I’m so excited to have multi-talented Heather Park as this week’s WOYN subject.  She’s seriously one of the coolest ladies I’ve ever met.  Without gushing too much, she’s beautiful, has an amazing singing voice, a fun, edgy sense of style and is probably one of the biggest Twitter fanatics I know.  She is responsible for saving me from being a wandering fool backstage at my first fashion show, introducing me to the world of CalGel and connecting me with some of my favorite nail world people like Jin Soon. On top of all that, she’s a total nail fanatic posting her latest CalGel designs on Twitter and her blog SeoulDiva.  Being the proponent of natural nails that I am, it was Heather’s constant raves and CalGel posts that got me to dive head first into the world of Soak-off Gel nails. Check out some of Heather’s favorite designs and learn about the inspiration behind them, after the jump!

Introduce yourself to the ALU readers. Tell us a little about yourself.
By day, I work as a publicist for M•A•C Cosmetics. By night, I’m a singer (www.hearthepark.com). But I realized I needed another outlet for my obsession with food, my severe Asian pride, and to let my inner beauty junkie run free…so I also have a blog: www.seouldiva.com

What made you try CalGel and why do you prefer it over polish? Do you see yourself ever going back?
I’ve always kept SUPER short nails – I used to play classical piano for 11 years, so it’s ingrained in my brain to have them painfully short. But every now & then, I get the mood to get crazy tips. I was doing some research on UV gel manis in NYC when I started reading about how great Sakura was with Calgel…so I had to investigate!

Now that I’ve gotten Calgels regularly for 1 year, I don’t think I could ever go back. They are definitely an expensive habit, but I can NEVER go back to normal nails. To get your nails done and have them last for 3-4 weeks without chipping or breaking, through all the typing & texting we do…it’s just WONDERFUL.

Of all your CalGel nail designs which one is your favorite? Why?
Because I have to wear all-black for work, I tend to go for the more Black & White nail designs. But I have to say that my favorite was one that was inspired by Sophy Robson’s rainbow design (below). It was a double-French rainbow that went across all 5 fingers, and it was INGENIUS! The shape of the double French also made your fingers look long & lean!

What design are you wearing now and what was the inspiration?
My current design is a little extreme. I had a music video shoot this past weekend, so I used it as a reason to get CRAZY blinged out nails. Katy Perry’s VMA nails were the inspiration for the ring finger.

Then I was flipping through an issue of Nail Up Magazine (a popular Japanese nail art publication) and saw these:

So I got the inspiration for the rest of the hand.

I’ve also noticed that I’ve been going more and more towards a pointier nail shape. I used to be a squoval kinda gal, but now I’m oval all the way.

You have quite a party happening on your fingernails, how do you coordinate your toes?
If there’s a party on my nails, it’s just a boring Saturday night watching TV on my toes. But I lean towards silvers or dark blues & purples. I never really match.

In spite of your love for CalGel how many bottles of nail polish do you own? What’s your favorite polish color?
I own a LOT of polish. I would say the most recent polish obsession has to be the M•A•C Style Black Nail Lacquer shades…especially Seriously Hip!

Do you have a favorite nail treatment you think my readers should know about? Why is it so fab?
My secret weapon top coat: Revlon Quick Dry Top Coat. We all know you’re supposed to re-apply to prolong the life of your mani/pedi, and I’ve tried SEVERAL. This is my all-time FAVE for touchups. It has a nice, thin viscosity, dries SO quickly and it gives the most beautiful shine. LOVE.

What do you think is the big nail trend for the season?
I think Nail Art is THE big trend. With all the attention celebs are getting for stepping up their nail game, I think it’s only natural that it trickles down to us commoners.   People are experimenting more and becoming fearless and playful with what they do. It’s becoming as fashionable as makeup! I also think we’ll see a variety of nail shapes.

What nail trend do you wish would go away?
I’m with you on the anti-French tips sentiment. Not to say that I don’t think it’s pretty, if done correctly…but I’m talking the long, square, super-white French tips. I think it’s a little tired. Change is good – survival of the fashion fittest!

What is the biggest nail faux pas that women make?
I guess it’s not so much a faux pas, but more of a “should do”. I’m amazed at the difference MOISTURIZING makes! I’ve noticed if I do a good job applying hand cream or salve to my hands, with special attention to my cuticles, that my manicures last so much longer!

My thanks to Heather for sharing her nail love with all of us. Be sure to check out SeoulDiva on the regular for her latest CalGel looks, foodie reviews and more.

OK so who has tried CalGel or some version of soak-off gels? Have you found a salon near you that does nail art with it like Sakura?

What’s On Your Nails? is a series focusing on my fellow beauty bloggers and industry insiders, their favorite nail polish and other hot nail topics.

Hey Fanatics, I’m back and it’s time to kick off the week with another installment of WOYN?  This week I want you to meet Marina from Makeup Loves Me.  I met Marina at my very first NY Fashion Week as we stood in a torturous, long line for a show only to be rebuffed at the last minute because they invited everyone and their mother.  Regardless, we had a blast gabbing throughout the wait and I always look forward to running into her when I’m in the city.

The last time I saw Marina not only did I not recognize my own polish on her nails (I’m so oblivious!) but she had on the most gorgeous eyelash extensions I have ever seen.  I was jealous on the spot.  To find out that they only cost her $7 from some hole of a salon in one of the boroughs made me even more green. $7??? I can’t even!  It’s Marina’s ability to discover the beauty world’s diamonds in the rough that makes Makeup Loves Me a unique and fun read.

Learn more about Marina, find out what green polish she’s loving and check out her fave CalGel manicure after the jump!

Introduce yourself to the ALU readers. Tell us a little about you and your blog.
Hi ALU readers! I’m Marina and I write MakeupLovesMe.com, a site dedicated to makeup trends and reviews of the latest products, and sometimes I’m funny.

What is your favorite nail polish? Why?
I have two favorite polishes right now – essie’s Mint Candy Apple and Barielle’s Falling Star from the All Lacquered Up collection! Both colors are totally unique, while still being on point with the fall trends. Plus, I can’t where either without getting a ton of compliments, and who doesn’t like compliments?

What is on your tips and toes right now?
Tips – essie’s Mint Candy Apple, of course! Toes – Lippmann Collection’s Funky Chunky – which is a sheer, sequined black.

Do you consider nail polish a beauty necessity or accessory? Why?
Nail polish is a total necessity, especially right now. All of the hottest makeup trends revolve around nails. If you’re not making a statement with your nails, you’re not making a statement, end of story.

How many bottles of nail polish do you own?
I just got rid of 20 bottles of nail polish, and I still probably have about 75? And I love every single one. I can’t cut the collection back any further.

How often do you change your nail polish?
I change my finger nails twice a week and my toes every other week. In the summer I change the toes up weekly.

Do you have a favorite nail treatment you think my readers should know about? Why is it so fab?
I think everyone needs to know about Calgel nails. My calgel manicure (pictured above) literally lasted 3 full weeks without a chip and the nail art they do at Sakura unreal. My nails were covered in glitter of all color and sizes – plus rhinestones!

What do you think is the big nail trend for fall?
There are so many nail trends right now. Minty green nails, matte nails, super glittery nails and nail art are all big – and I want them all!

What nail trend do you wish would go away?
Neon nails – sorry, ladies! essie’s perky purple is still acceptable – but you shouldn’t be rocking day-glo tips now that the summer has ended.

What is the biggest nail faux pas that women make?
Having your tips and toes be the same color. It’s like getting a purse with matching shoes – get creative.

Thanks a million Marina for sharing with us and for giving Falling Star a shout out!  Fanatics make sure you stop by Makeup Loves Me to follow Marina’s beauty adventures in the city.

What’s On Your Nails? is a series focusing on my fellow beauty bloggers and industry insiders, their favorite nail polish and other hot nail topics. Fanatics, I’d like you to meet Monique Hankins the beautiful brains behind Beauty Girl Musings. I met Monique over a year ago in LA and was immediately taken aback by her bright, sparking smile and ridiculously glossy mane. She’s seriously stunning. But more than that, she’s one of the sweetest people you’ll ever meet, stylish and looks way too young to be married with two children. If she wasn’t so charming, you’d hate her. Between BGM and her Beauty Editor position at Style Bakery Beauty she’s one busy bee and extremely beauty savvy which includes a healthy polish obsession. Learn more about this glam-mom blogger and see which OPI shade is tops on her list, after the jump!

Introduce yourself to the ALU readers. Tell us a little about you and your blog.
Hi everyone, I’m Monique! I’m married (almost 11 years!) and have two kids (6 and 9). I started Beauty Girl Musings a few days before my 28th birthday in 2008 simply because I needed a creative outlet. I’m a licensed esthetician and love the whole realm of skincare and beauty. I didn’t actually intend for BGM to turn into a “beauty blog”, but found myself writing about a lot of beauty-related products!

Being a wife and mom is a full-time job, and my life isn’t what most people would call “glamorous”, LOL! I get glammed up everyday anyway– even if the only place I’m going for the day is around the house to clean it. It may sound a bit selfish, but pampering and taking care of myself has always been a priority and it keeps me feeling good. I love sharing that with my audience of readers. We all have stressful lives and take care of others, so we need to spend time on ourselves, too. In addition to beauty, I also like to incorporate style and health-related posts because those are passions of mine as well.

About a year after starting BGM, I became the Contributing Beauty Editor at StyleBakeryBeauty.com, and now a year later, I’m the Beauty Editor.

Why is OPI’s Pompeii Purple your favorite?
It’s an amazing pink– I love pink!– with a fabulous purple iridescence, making it the perfect mix of pink and purple– two colors I love to wear. BTW, I just discovered that one of OPI’s Dell computers is available in the same shade!

What is on your tips and toes right now?
Right now I’m wearing RBL’s Mismas! It’s such a fab purple that everyone should own. My toes are decked out in China Glaze Fly (from the Kicks collection).

Do you consider nail polish a beauty necessity or accessory? Why?
I would have to say mostly it’s a necessity– without it, hands and nails look so sad. No one should be without it! It can also an accessory because it can be changed to compliment or contrast (but not match– I’m not a fan of being “matchy-matchy”) whatever you plan to wear during the week (or that day!).

How many bottles of nail polish do you own?
A little over 70. I actually only really got the nail polish bug earlier this year– now it just won’t quit! Plus since I’m licensed, I can shop at beauty supply stores and buy my polishes at a discount!

How often do you change your nail polish?
I change the color on my tips it at least once a week, twice when I can. Once a month I treat myself to a manicure in a salon. I always have my toes done every two weeks (I’m not a fan of painting my own toes, strange as that may sound).

Do you have a favorite nail treatment you think my readers should know about? Why is it so fab?
I LOVE Orly Glosser top coat– it dries fast, prevents chips and leaves nails looking super glossy.

What do you think will be the big nail trend for fall?
I think this season the rules have changed. We don’t have to be in a box of only deep tones. Rich hues of everything from neutrals to jewel tones are fabulous and sophisticated. And like Sarah (StyleIt) pointed out– nail art is definitely a huge trend now!

What nail trend do you wish would go away?
UGH– Acrylic French tips. I am so over them, although I will admit I wore them– ten years ago, LOL!

What is the biggest nail faux pas that women make?
Not taking care of their nails at all. It’s not hard to file your nails and brush on a sheer pink polish (I really like Milani’s Creme Brulee) once a week. I think women sometimes don’t think it will make a difference, but it does, not to mention is the best way to play with color.

Thanks a million Monique for sharing your gorg pics and polish ponderings with us. I’m extremely flattered to get a shout out for Mismas on BGM. Fanatics, make sure you visit Beauty Girl Musings for the latest beauty news and reviews.

Fanatics, I’ve never tried Orly Glosser but knowing that Monique is a fan I must try it. What are your thoughts on her top coat of choice?

What’s On Your Nails? is a series focusing on my fellow beauty bloggers and industry insiders, their favorite nail polish and other hot nail topics. Sarah Conley from StyleItOnline.com is one of my oldest and dearest blog friends. She is literally the first person to befriend me in a world where it’s easy to get lost in isolation. She showed me the ropes and what it means to be part of the blogging community. If it wasn’t for her advice-filled chats/phone calls leading up to my first NY Fashion Week experience, I probably wouldn’t have had the guts to step on the plane. When it comes to the fashion world most of us are just bystanders but Sarah lives and breathes it. Seeing her, giddy like a kid the night before Christmas, spot one of her fave models stomping the catwalk or gushing over the latest MAC launch, her passion is infectious. With the recent revamp of her On The Plus Side series, documenting her daily outfits in all her plus-sized glory, she has amazed me once again. Learn more about Sarah and see what layering combo is on her nails, after the jump!

Introduce yourself to the ALU readers. Tell us a little about you and your blog. Hi dearies – I’m Sarah! During the day, I help fashion & beauty brands find their place in social media and by night I write StyleITOnline.com.What is your favorite nail polish? My favorite polish is always changing. Right now I love MAC’s Cool Reserve and D&G’s Stromboli (mostly because I loved the way Pat McGrath said Stromboli to me!) ! What is on your tips and toes right now? On my nails is a coat of MAC’s Seriously Hip & D&G’s Stromboli. My toes are too embarrassing to discuss.

Do you consider nail polish a beauty necessity or accessory? Why?
An absolutely necessity. I grew up with a beauty-crazed mother and one of her biggest must haves was painted nails. She can spot a chip or a bubble a mile away.

How many bottles of nail polish do you own?
Way too many to count! When I left Arkansas a couple of years ago, I left my collection with my mother (who I knew would appreciate it) and started from scratch. Now I have two drawers full and I just keep adding! The brand doesn’t matter – I’m an equal opportunity polisher.

How often do you change your nail polish?
Once a week. I can’t repeat similar colors back to back and I can’t go without color on my nails.

Do you have a favorite nail treatment you think my readers should know about? Why is it so fab?
I really love using Barielle’s Nail Rebuilding Protein and I am also currently loving Lisa Hoffman’s Hand & Foot Butter. The packaging is fab!

What do you think is the big nail trend for fall?
Nail art! A plain coat of polish just isn’t cutting it anymore!

What nail trend do you wish would go away?
Whoever decided that chipped polish is appropriate and means we’re “busy women” should get a reality check & a manicure pronto.

What is the biggest nail faux pas that women make?
Not stepping out of their comfort zone to try color. C’mon – what’s the worst that can happen?

My thanks to Sarah for finally sharing her thoughts on all things polish (just teasing hon!). Fanatics make sure you visit StyleItOnline.com for your daily dose of fashion and beauty.

So now that we know what’s on Sarah’s nails, what’s on yours?

image credit:

Kimberley Williamson for StyleIt

What’s On Your Nails? is a series focusing on my fellow beauty bloggers and industry insiders, their favorite nail polish and other hot nail topics. Fanatics, I have a treat for you today. Dina from eye4style is sharing her latest nail polish find with us. It’s funny, I virtually met Dina what seems like forever and a day ago. She quoted me in an article about French manicures back when only a few of you knew I existed. Since then, I’ve had the pleasure of meeting Dina at random NYC events and she’s a big ball of fabulous. With a biting wit and a flare for fashion that includes her love of fun footwear (a “party on the feet” as she calls it), Dina is a blast to be around. Remember when I told you about her CalGel gradation from NYFW? The girl obviously has an “eye for style”! Though it’s her charm and humor that make eye4style one of my must-reads so if it’s not on your blog reader, hop to it! See the polish Dina discovered on her recent trip to London after the jump!

Introduce yourself to the ALU readers. Tell us a little about you and your blog. Hi All Lacquered Up readers! I’m Dina – by day, I work in social media and by night, I’m the beauty and fashion-obsessed blogger at eye4style (which is my own site) and Makeup Minute (which I write for b5 Media.)What is your favorite nail polish? It is SO hard to pick a favorite. There are a few polishes that I just love. One is Rainy Day by MAC – it’s the most amazing metallic pewter and it flashes purple and blue in the sun. I also love a bright berry polish for Summer, like essie Raspberry. And of course, my life would not be complete without the perfect red and the perfect nude – I like a Jessica polish for the latter and for the former, I have a wardrobe of at least 30 reds for when the mood strikes. Bad answer, I know:)

What is on your tips and toes right now?
On my tips, I’m wearing Miss Sporty #60 – it’s a shimmering light purple that I just picked up in London. I’d never heard of this brand before but I was tempted by a few of their cool colors when I hit Superdrug today.

On my toes, I’m wearing Zoya’s Yasmeen, which is just a stunning dark shimmery purple, I’m going to try it for a mani next. As you can see, I am having a purple moment.

Do you consider nail polish a beauty necessity or accessory? Why?
Honestly, I’d have to say both. I’m one of those women who just does not feel polished (haha!) without a manicure. So, for me, it’s a necessity. But at the same time, I’ve become more and more open to having fun with color, so it’s an accessory too.

How many bottles of nail polish do you own?
Oh boy, this is usually embarrassing…but I have a feeling I’m in the company of friends here…easily 150. Maybe more. Honestly, I’m not sure if I want to know.

How often do you change your nail polish?
One of the only things that’s inexpensive in New York City is a manicure! So, I have a salon manicure once a week, it’s my Sunday ritual. I rarely change my polish myself – when I do, I wind up obsessing about the imperfections. Instead, I bring my fave polishes to the salon.

Do you have a favorite nail treatment you think my readers should know about? Why is it so fab?
Nailtiques Formula 2. I doubt that’s a revelation for anyone but it’s AMAZING stuff. One of the few beauty products that really delivers as promised. If you have weak or peeling nails, you need a bottle – as a bonus, it makes a great topcoat. Manis last forever with no chips!

What do you think will be the big nail trend for fall?
I really think that nail art is making a big comeback – from “crazy” colors to Konad to Minx to Calgel – I see more girls going beyond the traditional pale pink or red manicure. I love it! It’s such a fun little way to express yourself.

What nail trend do you wish would go away?
Don’t hate me. Black nailpolish. Yes, it’s neutral. Yes, it’s vampy. But honestly, I don’t think it looks great against most skin tones and it’s a little too goth girl for me.

What is the biggest nail faux pas that women make?
Oh, this one is easy – the French Pedicure. Why? WHY? A French manicure is designed to make nails look longer and healthier. Who wants their toenails to look LONGER? I will never understand it (and perhaps it’s better that way…)

OK seriously, how many of us need to admonish the French pedi before it finally goes away?? Thanks Dina for joining in the crusade and for sharing your passion for polish with all of us. Fanatics be sure to visit eye4style and Makeup Minute on the regular!

Have any of you come across Miss Sporty polish in your travels or swaps? Know of a US resource?

What’s On Your Nails? is a series focusing on my fellow beauty bloggers and industry insiders, their favorite nail polish and other hot nail topics. Fanatics, let’s welcome back WOYN? After a little summer break, the series is back and what better way to kick it off than with “The Arm” herself, Karla from The Next Best Thing to Going Shopping Yourself. If you’re not familiar with Karla’s blog (and you should be) it’s seriously one of the best makeup swatch sites on the web. Karla spends her time testing every new makeup collection to hit the counters and photographs the products on her now-famous arm. She even shows nail polishes on “the arm” using the ingenious technique of polishing on tape (click to see). For WOYN? Karla broke form by showing us her actual nails, which are totally swatch-worthy. Check out her blingtastic manicure and learn more about her after the jump!

Introduce yourself to the ALU readers. Tell us a little about you and your blog.
My hope is that TNBTTGSY really is the next best thing to going to the makeup counter yourself. I swatch all of something — the latest seasonal collection from Chanel, or permanent MAC lipsticks — on my arm, then take a picture in full sunlight. I also take notes on everything about it, and ask the (very tolerant and supportive) sales
staff a million questions: does it have any special ingredients? Is it limited edition? How much is it? Is it scented? Sparkly? Sticky? Sheer?

What’s your favorite polish?
My “favorite” changes with the season, but at the moment, I’d have to say China Glaze’s Sexagon. I adore holographic polishes (they’re even blingier than glitters, but so much easier to remove), and nobody does them better than China Glaze. The formula is so smooth and perfect — it’s like magic disco balls on my fingers. When I wear it, I’m constantly admiring my nails. I do feel bad recommending a polish that’s no longer easy to find.

What is on your tips and toes right now?
At the moment, it’s Sally Hansen’s Real Royal (it’s one of her Maximum Growth Plus shades). It’s a dark, darkly sparkly brown — so sexy! On my toes are China Glaze Ruby Pumps (which makes me feel like Dorothy).

Do you consider nail polish a beauty necessity or accessory? Why?
On toes, definitely a necessity. My feet just aren’t cute without a splash of color on my toes. I prefer to have painted fingernails; a good manicure protects my nails from incidental damage and/or impulsive trimming — but I’m not ashamed to go out without it.

How many bottles of nail polish do you own?
Um. 50. But I’d like to mention that before I started reading polish blogs, that answer was 4. Part of the dramatic increase is attributable to my not knowing there were brands other than OPI (and OPI has gotten steep!). But now that I’ve found you, Zoya, Barielle, China Glaze, and Sally Hansen, I want to shout your names from the rooftops. A great formula is everything.

How often do you change your nail polish?
Since discovering Zoya’s Anchor and Armor base coats and top coats, I can go 5 days on fingers (miracle! This has made such a difference in my desire to paint my nails). I’m lazy, so I’ll keep my toenail polish for 3 weeks at a time.

Do you have a favorite nail treatment you think my readers should know about? Why is it so fab?
If they don’t already own a buffing block (and what ALU reader doesn’t own a buffing block?), it’s a lifesaver. I hadn’t realized there was such a quick-and-easy solution for toenail ridges, or modest post-polish staining — or stopping a peeling nail in its tracks.

What do you think will be the big nail trend for fall?
I’m personally loving dark fingernails. Not only does it make me feel like a badass, but it makes my sometimes-too-short nails look intentional and chic. And there are so many choices! Black, brown, purple, blue, green — I think there are great options for every skintone.

What nail trend do you wish would go away?
I know everybody’s mad about matte — and I’ve seen some very cool textural nail art done with it. But matteness looks sad on my nails (I crave the shiny). I only want it to go away so polish companies can devote their full attention to my favorite shades.

What is the biggest nail faux pas that women make?
Nothing much bothers me, except when women in professional environments have incredibly (more than 50%) chipped polish. You can’t think that people don’t notice your nails: it’s part of your whole presentation.

Thanks a million for sharing your polish love with us Karla! Fanatics make sure you stop by The Next Best Thing to Going Shopping Yourself to check out the newest product launches.

What’s On Your Nails? is a series focusing on my fellow beauty bloggers and industry insiders, their favorite nail polish and other hot nail topics. Another week, another WOYN? and this week we’ve got Carla from Product Girl who is FINALLY sharing her NOTD with us (j/k Carla). Kids, this girl is a true “product girl” as her knowledge astounds me. Her love of makeup is deep and real and she can recall color names, collections, etc. like no one I’ve met. This girl has it down! Since we chat regularly on IM I get to hear about her beauty hauls which makes me want to run to the mall and spend, spend, spend. That’s the last thing the boyfriend wants to hear. I can’t justify $45 for La Mer lip balm but hearing her rave about it is extremely enabling. For that reason alone I’m avoiding the La Mer counter. Read on to learn more about “Product Girl”, see her favorite red and learn which Sally Beauty find is her go-to top coat.

Introduce yourself to the ALU readers. Tell us a little about you and your blog.
I started Product Girl in September of 2005. I had a personal blog for years and I found myself talking about my beauty purchases more and more. Eventually I decided that those posts needed their own home because I really enjoyed talking about beauty products and that’s how Product Girl was born.

What is your favorite nail polish?
I am absolutely in love with Chanel’s Lotus Rouge nail polish. I’m a sucker for a red, especially blue reds and this red definitely has quite a bit of it. Unfortunately, I don’t wear it as much as I would like to simply because I only have 1 bottle but you actually suggested some shades that help me make do. Plus reds make me feel good, they make me feel a little glamourous.

What is on your tips and toes right now?
Right now I have Essie’s Geranium on my tips and my toes are bare. Geranium is an almost perfect duplicate of NARS Hunger, Hunger has a little more orange to it but you wouldn’t pick up on that unless you compare them side by side.

Do you consider nail polish a beauty necessity or accessory? Why?
To me, it’s an accessory… for now. I’m a reformed nail biter and for years I didn’t really give much thought to what was on my nails. I also got the short end of the stick when it comes to nails. Everyone else in my family has these gorgeous broad, long nails and I have short, stubby, weak ones. I’m starting to work on them though and I definitely have started building a collection of polishes.

How many bottles of nail polish do you own?
I don’t have an exact count on how many bottles I own, mainly because I have products scattered all over the place but I know I have at least 40 of them right now. For the most part, they are different hues of red, mauves, nudes and browns. I’m starting to expand into grays and some more adventurous colors.

How often do you change your nail polish?
Sadly, not as often as I should. It took me about a month to do my nails this time. It’s one of those things that gets put on the to-do list but somehow never gets done until it’s the wrong time. Like this time, I decided to do my nails right between loads of laundry.

Do you have a favorite nail treatment you think my readers should know about? Why is it so fab?
Right now I’m loving INM’s Out the Door top coat. As I mentioned, I often decide to do my nails at the wrong time, like right before bed, and I’m very impatient when it comes to drying time so a speed dry top coat is a must for me. I tried using Seche Vite and didn’t like its consistency so then I started using Poshe. That works like a charm for me but I saw Out the Door in a beauty supply store and picked it up on an impulse. This works even faster than Poshe.

What do you think will be the big nail trend for summer?
It always seems to go back to bright, vivid colors which is great but it seems like I’m seeing more pinks and oranges around this time it seems. I’m not really good at predicting trends though, I just know what I like and what works for me.

What nail trend do you wish would go away?
I do not understand why a person would get a French pedicure, that just seems ridiculous. Just because it looks nice on your fingertips, doesn’t mean it belongs on your toes. Seems like a lose lose situation; either your nails are too long and have the white tip (which then can be uncomfortable) or your nails are too short for the white tip and that just doesn’t look cute either… to me anyhow.

What is the biggest nail faux pas that women make?
Walking around with horribly chipped nail polish, so badly chipped that there’s barely any color left. This is something I’m guilty of doing myself from time to time but at a certain point, your nails are just begging for the nail polish remover.

My thanks to Carla for letting me bully her into showing off her nails. Fanatics make sure you visit Product Girl and see if Carla can enable your next beauty purchase.

What’s On Your Nails? is a series focusing on my fellow beauty bloggers and industry insiders, their favorite nail polish and other hot nail topics. In this week’s WOYN? we’re talking to Kia from Yummy411. Kia is one of the first beauty bloggers I met online. We connected through the Specktra message boards and our love of polish and MAC. I finally got to meet Kia last summer at the Total Beauty summit and she’s not only a beauty but a super cool chick to hang with. And even though I knew she had stunning eyes from seeing them on her blog, in person… they’re traffic stopping. If you aren’t already a regular reader of Yummy411, you should definitely check it out. I love that Kia includes a mix of drugstore, department store and pro beauty products with her own beauty adventures. Learn more about Kia, find out what nail look she calls a “summertime tragedy” and more, after the jump!

Introduce yourself to the ALU readers. Tell us a little about you and your blog.
I’m a makeup enthusiast. I love the transformational properties of makeup and because of all of this I’m now a beauty blogger (almost 3 years strong!) and a freelance makeup artist! A native Washingtonian (Washington, DC) I work full time in the government sector and a mom of one darling boy!

Why is OPI’s Mod About You your favorite?
It has its own classic edgy-ness to it being an opaque, pastel color, but chic and subtle enough for the work place.

What is on your tips and toes right now?
On my nails, I have on MAC’s Mercenary (pictured) that was released with this Summer’s Style Warrior collection. I wanted to try the bronzed babe theme on my nails.

Do you consider nail polish a beauty necessity or accessory? Why?
An accessory. I think decorating your nails is another fun way to show off your personality and express yourself! Not necessary, but it totally compliments your style.

How many bottles of nail polish do you own?
I own 50+ bottles of polish.

How often do you change your nail polish?
I change my polish every 2 weeks only because I go to the salon to get them done. However, buying 6-10 polishes at a time, it’s hard to wait that long anymore!

Do you have a favorite nail treatment you think my readers should know about? Why is it so fab?
Nail blog famous Seche Vite top coat and Gena Healthy Hoof Nail Protein Treatment Cream. The cream keeps the cuticles and heels soft!

What do you think will be the big nail trend for summer?
I think the summer nail trend will continue to be bright fun colors.

What nail trend do you wish would go away?
Only for the summer, I want to get rid of black polish. I sometimes think to myself, “That was sooo last fall!” LOL

What is the biggest nail faux pas that women make?
Summertime tragedy: acrylic on the big toes, ugh!

My thanks to Kia for participating in WOYN? and fanatics make sure you visit Yummy411 often!

What’s On Your Nails? is a series focusing on my fellow beauty bloggers and industry insiders, their favorite nail polish and other hot nail topics. For this week’s WOYN, I’d like to introduce you to a YouTuber/Blogger that gives me a serious case of eyebrow envy, Jude Rivera. I’m obsessed with brows. It’s one of the first things I notice on a person so when a fellow blogger directed me to Jude’s site, I was immediately smitten. She’s not only gorgeous with wicked makeup skills but she has an AMAZING set of arches. If you haven’t watched Jude’s tutorials before run, I’m sorry RUN, to her channel and take a peek. I guarantee you’ll learn something new. Like did you know that Sally Hansen makes an invisible lip liner? I certainly didn’t and here I was tossing away $$$ on DuWop’s version that NEVER correctly sharpens. Thanks Jude! So read on fanatics to learn more about Jude, see which orange lacquer captured her heart and what nail board trick she swears by for making her polish last.

Introduce yourself to the ALU readers. Tell us a little about you and your blog.
My name is Jude and I am an unabashed makeup enthusiast. I have a Face of the Day blog called The Girly Show at www.girly-show.com and a Youtube channel where I focus mainly on makeup tutorials with some product reviews to keep things interesting.

I became interested in Nail Polish after a good friend of mine; Ness from Casual Lavish became an active member of the nail board on Makeup Alley. Her enthusiasm was contagious and I have been a polish fiend ever since.

Why is Pia by Zoya your favorite?
It is so hard to pin down one favorite but Pia by Zoya is definitely in my top three. I have a weakness for orange and shimmer so it is everything I want in a fun, popping color. I would be remiss if I didn’t also mention IDK by China Glaze, Rio Nights by Orly, Tru Passion by Color Club, and Wild Child by Color Club. My list of favorites run the gamut from the more conservative like Cashmere Cardigan by Orly to the colors that scream to be noticed like Ali by Zoya.

What is on your tips and toes right now?
I have Miami Beet by OPI on my toes and Sol Cabana by Orly on my tips.

Do you consider nail polish a beauty necessity or accessory? Why?
Personally, I consider it a necessity. It is a cheap and easy way to add an unexpected pop of color to your day and a fun way to express yourself. You may not want to wear colorful eyeshadow but a brightly colored nail is a great way to show the playful side of your personality.

How many bottles of nail polish do you own?
I would say roughly between 100-125 bottles.

How often do you change your nail polish?
I never go more than three days with one polish but ideally, I change the polish up on a daily basis. I love the process. I live a pretty hectic life and setting aside one hour of my day to sit down, relax and take some time out for myself is extremely therapeutic. There is no multitasking with it; I am able to concentrate on this one thing from start to finish.

Do you have a favorite nail treatment you think my readers should know about? Why is it so fab?
The Stickey Sandwich! I learned about it from Alexa and it has been my favorite tip ever. I use Stickey by CND as a base coat and after applying my nail polish, I top it with another layer of Stickey. Let it sit for a few minutes and finish with the quick drying top coat of your choice. This technique has allowed me to go back to using Seche Vite that I had stopped using because of shrinkage issues.

What do you think will be the big nail trend for summer?
Bold, bright colors resurface each year and are especially interesting when they are bright jelly colors. They look like candy at your fingertips.

What nail trend do you wish would go away?
Acrylics so thick that they rise unnaturally from the nail bed. I am also not a fan of thick, awkward looking French tips.

What is the biggest nail faux pas that women make?
Ragged cuticles. I think it is a frequent faux pas because it is easy to forget to add cuticle oil several times a day. I had the same problem and alleviated it by placing an oily sugar scrub next to my sink at work. Whenever I wash my hands, I use the oil based scrub and it is a frequent and quick nail treatment that keeps them exfoliated and hydrated.

What’s On Your Nails? is a series focusing on my fellow beauty bloggers and industry insiders, their favorite nail polish and other hot nail topics. This week I’d like to introduce you to a relatively new blogger on the scene, Amanda from Dr. Frankenpolish. I stumbled across Amanda’s blog via a Google search and I was thrilled to find a site dedicated to the art of frankenpolish. What really sets her apart is that she uses accessible products and provides detailed recipes, not just a list of the colors but down the the number of drops type recipes. We’ve talked about frankening (mixing) your own colors in the past so those of you mixologists that are looking for new recipes, Amanda is your girl. She’s mastered the art of jellies, mattes and glitters so feel free to challenge her creativity. She even has an amazingly detailed tutorial for you newbie mixers out there. It’s a must read! Read on to see the amazing creation that brought me to her site (will you be shocked to know it’s a green?) and discover her genius tip for mending a broken nail.

Introduce yourself to the ALU readers. Tell us a little about you and your blog.
Well, my name is Amanda, or as I am better known in the virtual world, Dr. Frankenpolish. I began mixing my own polish (“frankening”) for fun, and realized I really enjoyed it. As a member of Makeup Alley, I noticed a lot of girls asking questions on how to franken polishes. I decided to start my blog as a “How To” for frankening advice and help. I feature my own creations, along with the recipes to make them. A lot of readers email me requests for certain colors they would like to see, and I try my best to help them out. I tend to use a lot of easily accessible drugstore colors in my frankens, so that it’s easy for others to recreate a color!

Why are Jackie Green Jelly and Flat Grape Matte your favorites?
Jackie Green Jelly (click for recipe) is probably my favorite franken I have made so far. Like many others, I missed the boat on the much coveted NARS Zulu. So when my friend Jackie (for whom this is named after) suggested a make my own dark green jelly, I jumped at the challenge. Another franken that is a close runner up as my favorite is my Flat Grape Matte (below) franken.. I love the cheery purple color, and the matte finish gives it a really neat, unique look!

What is on your tips and toes right now?
Tips: Iron Butterfly franken Toes: China Glaze Custom Kicks

Do you consider nail polish a beauty necessity or accessory? Why?
To me, it is most definitely a necessity! I bit my nails for years, so after kicking the habit for good, I appreciate my long, natural nails. The only thing that helped me stop biting was to constantly keep polish on them. And, well…let’s face it. Polished nails are pretty nails, and who doesn’t want to feel pretty?

How many bottles of nail polish do you own?
Around 1,000. And that number is not counting my frankens! I actually went through recently and counted, which sent me into a slight panic. I knew I had a lot, but it was surprising to know the number. Nail polish is something I truly love and enjoy, so I don’t really feel too bad about having a huge stash!

How often do you change your nail polish?
I usually leave my pedi color on for about a week. My tips, I change every day since I am constantly swatching my frankens. Plus, since I have so many colors in my stash, I like to experience them all!

Do you have a favorite nail treatment you think my readers should know about? Why is it so fab?
Swiss silk wraps and IBD Resin glue! These two items are lifesavers if you break a nail. I tend to keep my nails on the longer side, so they are more prone to tears and breaks. I’ve had nail tips break completely off, and have managed to reattach them using the silk wraps & glue. Even with daily polish changes, the patched nail lasts for about two weeks on me before I need to redo it.

What do you think will be the big nail trend for summer?
Yellows seem to be making an appearance everywhere lately! I’ll admit, I never cared much for yellow until recently. I think it is one of those colors that people are afraid to try. With a huge range of shades from soft pastels to blindingly bright neons, I think every polish lover should give it a try!

What nail trend do you wish would go away?
Poorly done acrylics. I have nothing against fake nails, but when they aren’t done properly, they can really be damaging (and not to mention painful). I’ve worn acrylics in the past, so I can testify firsthand about the horrible mess they made of my real nails.

What is the biggest nail faux pas that women make?
Neglecting you
r cuticles! If your cuticles are in bad shape, it makes your whole mani, no matter how perfect, look bad. As a former nail and cuticle biter, I’ve seen first hand the difference it makes. Using an oil such a Haken from Sally’s or Creative Solar Oil, or cream like LUSH’s Lemony Flutter will really keep your cuticles looking soft and healthy. When your cuticles are well moisturized, you’re also less likely to pick or bite them.

Thanks a million for sharing your franken-genius with us. And Fanatics, be sure to visit Dr. Frankenpolish to see what new mixes Amanda has come up with.