Turning Japanese: Essie’s Latest

Essie’s new Tokyo-inspired Japanese If You Please range is a grower. At first glance, I almost dismissed all six, thinking the shades too retiring and muted to be worth consideration. But, as we’ve all been told countless times, one shouldn’t be fooled by first appearances – even in the realm of polish.

Once on nails, the deep damson Kimono-Over offers a spicy take on black. The Now and Zen grey shot through with mint makes for a smoky alternative to nude. Even brick red Playing Koi came to life on fingertips, convincing me that it could act as a second to my favourite pillar box red this winter.

In terms of formula, these don’t stay on the nail for as long as Chanel’s newbies, but two coats is enough for an opaque finish and the brush is thick and has a rounded edge, which helps immensely if you struggle to create a neat rounded shape near the cuticle. Here are the swatches //

OPI Fall For Japanese If You Please colour Now and Zen

OPI Fall For Japanese If You Please colour Kimono-Over

OPI Fall For Japanese If You Please colour Go Go Geisha

OPI Fall For Japanese If You Please colour in Udon Know Me

OPI Fall For Japanese If You Please colour Playing Koi

OPI Fall For Japanese If You Please colour Maki Me Happy