Essie Snakeskin Collection Swatches- a slithering success?

Essie have tapped into the winter months in Australia so well with their new Snakeskin collection*. I love the strong theme running through the launch and the fact that the shades are gorgeous as plain metallic is definitely a strong selling point for those who may not be fans of the ever popular magnetic patterned nail trend. I actually really like the snakeskin print that this particular magnet adds to the nail, and think that it would look incredible on longer nail lengths. Unfortunately some tough weeks at work mean my nails are too short to really do this collection justice, and I have only worn four of the shades so the navy blue Snake it Up and the bronze Repstyle are overlooked for now.

The easiest path to success for this reptilian look is to apply a thin coat of the polish, wait for it to dry and then add a second coat before holding the lid with magnet as close to the nail as you can. Working one nail at a time is pretty much the only way this will work out, so keep in mind that it generally takes longer than a plain manicure.

 

Crocadilly, Snake Rattle and Roll, alternating
(I did not use the magnet for the first two nails to show how the shades look by themselves)



beginning with Crocadilly on the thumb and alternating, last two nails are left plain to show colour

Crocadilly is a metallic hunter green shade, and Snake, Rattle and Roll has a beautiful taupe tone that Essie describes as a pewter. I would definitely wear both of these with or without the snakeskin effect, as the metallic shades applied easily and not as streaky as others metallic I've tried. Crocadilly isn't so green that it is hard to wear, it just adds a nice tone to the metallic finish. Snake, Rattle and Roll is seriously stunning and I can see this getting whipped out a helluva lot in the Bovary housegold.

last two nails have been magnetised, first are plain two coaters

sssssexy is a beautiful deep shimmering sanguine shade that reminds me of the festive season, but the name definitely isn't something I'm feeling 'sexy' about. lil' boa peep is a pale beige shade, sort of like an icy taupe titanium. Of the four swatched, these are my least favourite purely due to my bias towards deeper shades for nails. I would recommend Crocadilly and Snake, Rattle and Roll if you are interested in a nice serpent manicure, and if you grab your bottle from Priceline ($16.95 AUD) you can get a snakeskin bracelet for a limited time only.

Are you a fan of magnetised nail art, or are you traditional at heart?
I think part of my affection for these is because I've mentally linked them to Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets...
Which of these four shades do you like best?

Emma x

*Press sample. Honesty, always.