Crane under a silver Moon: Diamond Cosmetics Starshine

Hello ladies,

Today I created an Asian inspired look featuring a crane. I have a real affinity for water birds. I wouldn't mind spending part of my day wading in a lake. The crane is a traditional symbol of longevity. As 2010 draws to a close, it's my wish for each of you, along with health and happiness.

Stamping with pastel blue special polish, I chose the crane image from Konad plate M23. I used a rainbow crystal to hang a Moon in the sky. A pale blue gem highlights the crane's wing. I flocked the trees with a turquoise blue glitter striper from Art Club. I love the softness of tone on tone manicures.

Starshine needed two coats for opacity. This shade has the beautiful pearl finish Diamond Cosmetics formulates so well. There is sparkling turquoise micro glitter in a blue green base. Starshine is a must have for lovers of blue polish. Diamond Cosmetics continues to enrapture me each year with their Winter Collection. I am excited about every color in the offering.

I hope everyone is enjoying their holiday preparations and making good wishes for the year to come.

Diamond Cosmetics Starshine was sent to me for review. This polish is sold in the US at diamondcosmetics.com. Use the code HOLIDAY for free shipping through Sunday, December 19th at 5 a.m. International readers can check boozshop.nl for availability.

Image plate M23 was provided for my consideration. You can shop the entire line of Konad stamping products at ocnailart.com.

Happy painting, ladies!

Gilded Chinoiserie

Hello ladies,

I love pairing red and gold together, especially when done with an Asian influence. This manicure makes me think of antique lacquer boxes and jewelry chests, overflowing with strands of golden pearls and lengths of chain.

Beginning with a base of Nubar Competition Red, I stamped the floral motif from Konad plate M23. I chose China Glaze 2030 to create the gilded flowers. I added a gold metallic gem and a yellow pearl to highlight the centers of the blooms.

The formula is an interesting mix between a jelly and a creme. Competition Red has the high gloss of a jelly, but builds to opacity as easily as a creme. I am wearing three coats, but most ladies would be satisfied with two. This polish is a classic winter red.

As the holidays approach, I love creating looks that are subtly festive and elegant.

Competition Red was sent to me for review. This shade is part of the Nubar Holiday Jewel Basket, which will be available for purchase on November 15th at bynubar.com.

Image plate M23 was provided for my consideration. To view the entire collection of Konad products, visit ocnailart.com. If you would like the chance to win eight nail art stamping plates, stop by the Ladies' Choice of Eight Plates Giveaway to enter.

Happy painting, ladies!