What is the difference between nail lacquer and nail polish?

Typically, nail lacquer is more chip resistant as it has a thicker formula than traditional nail polish.

How many layers of nail lacquer should I put on?

The sweet spot is one to two coats of color and one layer of a glossy top coat. Any more layers make dry time unbearably long and can cause premature wear to show more quickly.

How long does OPI polish last?

Unopened, nail polish can last a long time if stored in a cool, dry place. OPI recommends you use their polishes within 24 months for best results.

The 15 Best OPI Nail Colors of 2021

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There's something about having well-manicured nails that just makes you feel like you have your life in order (even if it's going literally the opposite). OPI has more than earned its place as one of our go-to nail polish brands for perfectly manicured nails. The names are clever, the formula is long-lasting, and there's a wide range of gorgeous colors to choose from.

That wide range of colors means that choosing the perfect shade can be a bit, well, overwhelming. To help narrow it down, we rounded up its top-selling shades, and let's just say there's a major commonality among them. Spoiler alert: There are a lot of pale blushes and whites.

Keep reading for the best OPI nail colors to try.

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A warm, neutral beige perfect for any occasion.

Limited Edition Germany Collection Nail Lacquer, My Very First Knockwurst, 0.5 fl. oz.

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A subtle, classic manicure choice.

Nail Polish, New Orleans Collection, Let Me Bayou a Drink, 0.5 fl. oz.

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A pearl finish differentiates this pretty pink shade from its predecessors on this list.

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A creamy café au lait (a lot of lait) shade.

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We're sensing a neutral theme here.

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A subtle peach that works for a variety of occasions.

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Ten out of 10 wooden stakes for the clever name of this polish.

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There are only so many ways to describe a beautiful neutral nail polish so… here's another beautiful neutral nail polish.

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A creamy white polish that makes a statement.

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A light, shimmery silver that has just the right amount of sparkle.

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A swoon-worthy, creamy grey.

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This white polish has just a hint of warm undertones.

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Another white polish on the list, but unlike the others, this one is sheer.

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A crisp, clean, opaque white polish that lives up to its name.

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The top-selling shade is that perfect blend of neutral and blingy. Flecks of glitter and silver shimmer are subtle but eye-catching.

What to Look for in an OPI Nail Lacquer

Color

Neutrals are a crowd favorite, but remember that there are no rules when it comes to choosing a nail color.

Finish

You have options. If you want a solid, glossy finish opt for an opaque nail lacquer. If you want your nails to look translucent, opt for a sheer polish. Shimmery polishes often come in either an opaque or translucent, whereas glitter polish is often mean to wear over an opaque color or on its own.

Dry Time

OPI nail polishes typically dry quickly, but you can always apply a quick-dry topcoat to speed the process up.

FAQ

What is the difference between nail lacquer and nail polish?

Typically, nail lacquer is more chip resistant as it has a thicker formula than traditional nail polish.
How many layers of nail lacquer should I put on?

The sweet spot is one to two coats of color and one layer of a glossy top coat. Any more layers make dry time unbearably long and can cause premature wear to show more quickly.
How long does OPI polish last?

Unopened, nail polish can last a long time if stored in a cool, dry place. OPI recommends you use their polishes within 24 months for best results.