People everywhere are eager to get their hands on Chanel's new Particulière ($23) nail polish, a flattering putty shade that's been generating buzz since the models wore it on the runways in Paris last year. Unfortunately, it's over $20 a pop, so those of us with limited budgets are forced to find our own way to wear the trend. To make things a little easier, I tested out a bunch of shades and found three look-alike polishes that will keep you on the cutting edge without taking your lunch money. To find out what they are, just keep reading.
- The best match by far is OPI You Don't Know Jacques! ($8), which really does look like Particulière from a distance. Upon closer inspection, Jacques is a bit grayer than its fancier counterpart, and I could see it being especially flattering for ladies with cool undertones.
- Another very close shade is Essie Mink Muffs ($8), which is slightly more brown than the Chanel color. With a gray or white base coat and careful application, though, I think this one can be made into a pretty convincing match.
- Borghese Biscotti Beige ($8) is also close, although side by side you can certainly see the difference. It's got all the brown of Particulière, but with a softening dose of mauve. It's a more subtle color than the Chanel, so if you'd like to stay on trend but don't want something harsh, I'd suggest finding a bottle of this. (Find a list of stores that carry Borghese polishes here.)
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