i am mad for matte. love, love, love it.

there is certainly something to be said for the perfect top coat that gives nails the glossiest, so shiny they’re blinding, finish. but dear lord how i’m coveting the matte nail right now. with autumn upon us, i’m in the mood for everything moody and muted – cashmere sweaters, back to deep brunette hair and plum lips. and the soft, satin sheen of matte just feels right.

essie matte about you top coat transforms any normal nail polish from shiny to soft and silken in seconds. i tried it with a deep navy blue – light my sapphire by opi. paint on your base colour as normal (two thin coats) and allow to dry. follow up with the matte top coat. ensure you do it carefully, going over every inch of the nail, otherwise you’ll be left with spots of shine.

before and after

allow to dry and you’re done – you’ll see the nail colour transform within thirty seconds of application and will be amazed out how the metallic glisten suddenly becomes this gorgeous, understated matte.

i’m seriously enjoying my matte look right now, and can’t wait to try it on a bunch of different colours. i’m also planning on having a little fun doing nail art with a matte base and the same regular colour on top, creating a three dimensional look. i’ll let you know how it goes – before i inevitably rediscover the joy of shiny nails again.

we’d love to hear from you – tweet us at @peanut_buttered or @andreamagrath or you can follow us on facebook here