Polish Pickup October 2020 Animation: Swatches and Reviews

 *press samples*

Hi folks! It was indeed a manic Monday today. It was so manic that it feels like it should be Wednesday already. Tonight I've got 5 items from the October Polish Pickup which has a theme of Animation this month. I'm not going to lie, I must not watch many animated shows because I didn't know the inspiration for many of the products this month while going through my wishlist. That doesn't matter much to me; if the polish is pretty, I'm gonna buy it. New to PPU? If so, here's how it works:

Definitely join the Polish Pickup Facebook Group. You don't necessarily need to actively participate in the group, but it will give you a look at the polishes that will be available in the coming month. PPU themes are chosen by the people, often a few months in advance (brands need time to find their inspiration and test their polish). Any indie brand that has been around for at least a year can participate and each has their own specific inspiration picture and polish for that month. All you need to do is go to the Polish Pickup site during the pre-order window (the first Friday-Monday of the month) to make all of your purchases of these exclusive polishes. There's no need to pay for multiple shipping charges; since this is a pre-order, all polishes get sent to Polish Pickup and they send you the polishes you ordered. Yup, it's that simple. Oh, and shipping is a flat-rate of $3 to the US (more for international and they just had to increase the pricing to Canada). Recently they also opened a UK site which you can find here. Since all orders are pre-orders, shipping will take place about 3 weeks after the end of the pre-order.

PPU starts Friday, Oct. 2nd at 11:00 AM ET and ends on Monday, Oct. 5th at 11:59 PM (but if a polish has a cap and sells out before the end of the pre-order, it's gone, unless you get lucky and the cap gets raised...which is rare) on the PPU website. The website is currently open for wishlisting, so go check out this month's offerings STAT. Time for swatches!

Polish Pickup June 2020 Cocktails and Mocktails Swatches and Reviews

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Long time, no blog! Tonight I've got 4 products from this month's Polish Pickup which is coming in hot. The inspiration is Cocktails and Mocktails and I don't actually drink. I mean, I did back in the day, but alcohol interferes with the medication I take these days so my husband tends to do the drinking (he's into craft beer). It's fine with him because he always has a designated driver. That said, I think this is a really fun theme as there are drinks in all the colors of the rainbow. New to PPU? If so, here's how it works:

Definitely join the Polish Pickup Facebook Group. You don't necessarily need to actively participate in the group, but it will give you a look at the polishes that will be available in the coming month. PPU themes are chosen by the people, often a few months in advance (brands need time to find their inspiration and test their polish). Any indie brand that has been around for at least a year can participate and each has their own specific inspiration picture and polish for that month. All you need to do is go to the Polish Pickup site during the pre-order window (the first Friday-Monday of the month) to make all of your purchases of these exclusive polishes. There's no need to pay for multiple shipping charges; since this is a pre-order, all polishes get sent to Polish Pickup and they send you the polishes you ordered. Yup, it's that simple. Oh, and shipping is a flat-rate of $3 to the US (more for international and they just had to increase the pricing to Canada). Recently they also opened a UK site which you can find here. Since all orders are pre-orders, shipping will take place about 3 weeks after the end of the pre-order.

PPU starts Friday, June 5th at 11:00 AM ET and ends on Monday, June 8th at 11:59 PM (but if a polish has a cap and sells out before the end of the pre-order, it's gone, unless you get lucky and the cap gets raised...which is rare) on the PPU website. Guess what next month is?? PPU Rewind! Each brand gets to bring back a shade (or product) from a previous month for the PPU website, and a different color they can sell on their website if they're interested. 

The website is currently open for wishlisting, so go check out this month's offerings STAT. Time for swatches!

Pepper Pot Polish Destination: The Desert Collection Swatches and Reviews

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Hi guys! The Fall Collections keep rolling in, and tonight I have a very special collection from Pepper Pot Polish to share with you. If this set doesn't scream "FALL!!!!" in your face, I don't know what to tell you. This 5-piece collection is inspired by all things desert, and features creme finishes with shimmer. Somehow Mackenize was able to give us interesting fall shades in a place that doesn't experience fall in the way that many of us experience it every year! 

These are available now in the Pepper Pot Polish Etsy store for $10 each, or get yourself the whole collection for just $45 with free shipping (you'd be saving so much!). This is going to be another picture-heavy post, so shall we get to some swatches? 

Polish Pickup October 2019: Urban Legends Swatches and Reviews

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Hi guys! OMG, can you believe it's October already? It feels like yesterday it was July, am I right? Polish Pickup is coming up this weekend, and this month's inspiration is Urban Legends. There are sooo many urban legends out there, so I am super interested in seeing where makers go with this one. In case you're new to PPU, this is how it works: 

Definitely join the Polish Pickup Facebook Group. You don't necessarily need to actively participate in the group, but it will give you a look at the polishes that will be available in the coming month. PPU themes are chosen by the people, often a few months in advance (brands need time to find their inspiration and test their polish). Any indie brand that has been around for at least a year can participate and each has their own specific inspiration picture and polish for that month. All you need to do is go to the Polish Pickup site during the pre-order window (the first Friday-Monday of the month) to make all of your purchases of these exclusive polishes. There's no need to pay for multiple shipping charges; since this is a pre-order, all polishes get sent to Polish Pickup and they send you the polishes you ordered. Yup, it's that simple. Oh, and shipping is a flat-rate of $3 to the US ($5 for Canada and more for international). Recently they also opened a UK site which you can find here. Since all orders are pre-orders, shipping will take place about 3 weeks after the end of the pre-order.

PPU starts Friday, Oct. 4th at 11:00 AM ET and ends on Monday, Oct. 7th at 11:59 PM (but if a polish has a cap and sells out before the end of the pre-order, it's gone, unless you get lucky and the cap gets raised...which is rare) on the PPU website. I have a whopping five PPU shades to share with you this month, so I decided to combine these into one post. Go ahead and hit that button to see these beauties. 

Polish Pickup (PPU) June 2019: Weather Phenomenon Swatches and Reviews

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Hi guys! Polish Pickup (PPU) starts this Friday, and I have 3 shades to share with you tonight. This month's inspiration is weather, and I was curious to see what the maker's would come up with. Just in case this is your first PPU, here's the low-down on what to expect. First, definitely join the Polish Pickup Facebook Group. You don't necessarily need to actively participate in the group, but it will give you a look into the polishes coming in the coming month. Polish Pickup themes are chosen by the people, often a few months in advance (brands need time to find their inspiration and test their polish). Any indie brand that has been around for at least a year can participate and each has their own specific inspiration picture and polish for that month. All you need to do is go to the Polish Pickup site during the pre-order window (the first Friday-Monday of the month) to make all of your purchases of these exclusive polishes. There's no need to pay for multiple shipping charges; since this is a pre-order, all polishes get sent to Polish Pickup and they send you the polishes you ordered. Yup, it's that simple. Oh, and shipping is a flat-rate of $3 to the US ($5 for Canada and more for international). Recently they also opened a UK site which you can find here. Since all orders are pre-orders, shipping will take place about 3 weeks after the end of the pre-order

PPU starts this Friday, June 7th at 11:00 AM ET and ends on Monday, June 10th at 11:59 PM (but if a polish has a cap and sells out before the end of the pre-order, it's gone) on the PPU website. Shall we go ahead and get a closer look at these beauties? 

Noodles Nail Polish

Underwater Icicles (2 coats)

Price: $12

Cap: None

Up first is Noodles Nail Polish Underwater Icicles which was inspired by brincles, which are underwater icicles that form from the surface and move downward into the ocean. Google it, you'll thank me. This is a vibrant blue jelly with green/blue shifting flakes, silver and blue glitters, and fine silver metallic flakies. The beautiful flakes are the first thing that caught my eye. I was expecting to need 3 coats, but I was impressed with the opacity and it fully covered in just 2. It applied flawlessly, and dried with a little bit of texture from the flakes and glitter. If you want a smooth, glossy finish, you may want to add a second coat of topcoat. 

Website | Instagram | Facebook Group

Pepper Pot Polish

A Twister...With Teeth! (3 coats)

Price: $11

Cap: 75/US 5/UK

Mackenzie went out-of-the-box with a polish inspired by Sharknado! I've only seen one of them, but it was very memorable. You guys know how I feel about contrasting shimmers, and this one is a stunner. It's a greige crelly base with contrasting blue shimmer, and ultrachrome flakies. The base is perfectly shark-colored, and the blue just pops. I found the formula to be perfect, although it was a bit sheer. I needed to use 3 heavy coats for the photos above (if you use really thin ones, you may need a fourth). It dried with no texture and was easy to remove. 

Shop | Instagram | Facebook Group

Starlight Polish

St. Elmo's Fire (2 coats over a black creme)

Price: $15

Cap: 230 bottles

Issa is the queen of shimmer toppers, and this month's inspiration is St. Elmo's Fire which is often seen by sailors and pilots. It's a color-shifting topper with blue to purple UP sibling pigment, blue to purple iridescent glitters, blue to purple translucent flakes, and a touch of silver sparkle. I went with 2 thin coats over black to get the full effect, but you could definitely get away with just 1. It dried quickly and with no texture. This one just glows on the nail and I love it. 

Website | Instagram | Facebook Group | Facebook Page

The website is open for wishlists now, so fill up that cart. I've been scoping out the website since Sunday, and my list keeps getting longer. Don't forget, the shop opens at 11:00 AM, and some items go quickly. You can find out more about PPU on their Facebook page and website.

*These polishes were provided by the company or PR representative. All reviews are based solely on my opinion. For more information, please see my full disclosure at the bottom of the site*

Polish Pickup Famous Duos February 2019: Pepper Pot Polish Juicy & Boozy

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Hi guys! I have no idea how it's almost February already. Polish Pickup/Indie Pickup is back with Famous Duos this month. Some brands are collaborating to create a duo, while others are making one shade inspired by a specific duo (for example, Brand A making a polish inspired by Sherlock Holmes and Brand B making a polish inspired by John Watson vs. one brand being inspired by Watson & Holmes). Hopefully this makes sense. The store will open at 11:00 AM ET on Feb. 1st and close at 11:59 PM ET Feb. 4th. Pepper Pot Polish was inspired by Mackenzie's favorite cocktail, Gin & Juice (gin + pink grapefruit juice (and a splash of blood orange, if available)). To be honest, I've never had gin and juice, but I love the Snoop Dogg song. To refresh your memory:

Can you believe it came out in 1994? Anyway, Pepper Pot Polish's Juicy & Boozy will retail for $11 and has a cap of just 100 bottles. 

Pepper Pot Polish Juicy & Boozy (2 coats)

You know I love orange polishes, so this one feels like it was made for me! Juicy & Boozy is a blood orange base with gold flakes and shimmer. It will lean a little more red or orange depending on your skintone and lighting. It basically applied itself in just 2 coats, and it dried with no texture. What more could you ask for? 

You need to add this to your wishlist this month. Just imagine how this will look during the summer when you get a bit more sun? It would also make a beautiful pedi color! With a cap of just 100 bottles, there's definitely a chance this may sell out next Friday. You can find out more about Pepper Pot Polish on their website, Instagram, Facebook, or Facebook Fan Group. If you're wondering what's with this whole Polish Pickup thing, make sure to check out the PPU Facebook page and website to learn more. Don't forget, shipping is just $3 for US orders and $5 for Canada orders. Oh, and if you are in the UK, there is now a new website for you! 

*These polishes were provided by the company or PR representative. All reviews are based solely on my opinion. For more information, please see my full disclosure at the bottom of the site*

Pepper Pot Polish The Final Girls Collection Swatches & Reviews: Sudden Sequel Death Syndrome and The Cutie

*purchased with a blogger discount*

Hi guys! Whoa, we got so much snow this weekend! We get a couple snow "storms" a year, but they usually aren't much. I grew up in northwest Ohio, so I am used to loads of snow. But yeah, we got over a foot of snow and ice. You know what that means: snow day! I got a lot done on my extra day off. I almost got caught up on 90 Day Fiancé, worked out a bit, and made a large homemade dinner. How's the weather in your neck of the woods? Tonight I've got a couple shades from Pepper Pot Polish's The Final Girls Collection. The inspiration for this set is super unique and interesting. These were made for Mackenzie's love of horror movies and the heroine/survivor of these movies. If you're a flakie lover, you will love these! 

Pepper Pot Polish The Indie Shop (TIS) San Antonio 2018 Limited Editions: The Bitches Duo

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Hi guys! I hope your weekend is going well so far. I had to get up at 5:45 AM to drive to Raleigh for a plant giveaway at the JC Raulston Arboretum. It's a great time, but boy is it an early Saturday morning. I came home, ate some breakfast (by that time it was 11:45 AM), then took at couple hour nap. Oops! Tonight I've got Pepper Pot Polish's limited editions for The Indie Shop San Antonio which takes place next weekend. I can't make it, and I'm super jealous of those who can. I attended the Atlanta one the year before last, and I had a wonderful time. It was so special meeting the fine ladies and gentlemen behind the brands and other polish enthusiasts. 

Mackenzie has a LE duo for the event, and it's named The Bitches Duo. I do need to mention that if anyone would like a bottle without the word bitch on it, Mackenzie will have labels available that say Witchcraft and Witches Brew. That's a really thoughtful touch, and I appreciate her taking the time to make extra labels and realizing not everyone wants a swear word on their bottle. I happen to cuss like a sailor, so it doesn't bother me, but I can definitely see those with little ones wanting something a little more kid-friendly.  These will be $11 individually, or $20 for the set, and supply is limited. If these sell out, Mackenzie will be taking orders for free shipping, but only for items available at TIS. My guess is that if there happens to be any left over they will be put on the Pepper Pot Polish site. 

Pepper Pot Polish Bitchcraft (3 coats)

Up first is Bitchcraft which is a mossy green crelly base with purple/blue UCC flakes, gold flakies, and a sprinkling of scattered holo particles. This one is well-balanced with a happy mix of all 3 finishes. It dries with no texture, and I used 3 thin coats for full opacity. Both of these were very easy to work with, which is what I've come to expect from Pepper Pot Polish. 

Pepper Pot Polish Bitches Brew (3 coats)

Ok, Bitches Brew is a party on the nails. Just looking at this one in the bottle, I knew I was going to love it. It's a black jelly base with a mix of gold glitter and flakies, and blue/red/purple/gold glitters in square and hexagonal shapes. This one is quite ostentatious, and begs for your attention. I love it. It does dry with a lot of texture from the glitters, so use a thicker topcoat (you may need to double up if you really want a smooth finish). Shown is 3 easy coats. 

While I liked both polishes, Bitches Brew stole my heart. Either way, you might as well get the duo and save a couple bucks on each bottle. I mean, you know you want to. While at TIS, please say hello to Mackenzie for me! I've worked with her a few times, and it would be wonderful to finally meet her. It doesn't help we live on the opposite sides of the US. Again, you can get these next weekend at TIS. Make sure to join TIS Facebook Group to find a polish fairy to buy limited edition polishes for you if you can't make it. Also make sure to check out Pepper Pot's other products like lip balm, lip gloss, and body oils. Find out more information about Pepper Pot Polish on their website, Instagram, Facebook, or Facebook Fan Group.

*These polishes were provided by the company or PR representative. All reviews are based solely on my opinion. For more information, please see my full disclosure at the bottom of the site*

Polish Pickup (PPU) October 2018: Pepper Pot Polish I'm Your Number 1 Fan

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Hi guys! Polish Pickup starts this Friday, and I have a couple more polishes to show you. As a refresher, October's theme is Villains. Pepper Pot Polish was inspired by Annie Wilkes (played by Kathy Bates) from the movie Misery, adapted from the Stephen King book from the same name. I never read the book, but I loved the movie. I've watched most of Kathy Bates' movies, and I still enjoy her on American Horror Story. Polish Pickup starts this Friday, Oct. 5th at 11 AM EST and ends at 11:59 on Monday, Oct. 8th. This one will retail for $11, and has a cap of just 80 bottles. I can see this one easily selling out, so I suggest putting your order in as soon as possible. 

Pepper Pot Polish I'm Your Number 1 Fan (3 coats)

I'm Your Number 1 Fan is a murky olive green crelly base with orange to blue aurora shimmer, and rainbow iridescent flakes. I used 3 thinner coats for full opacity, but you may be able to get away with 2 depending on your application and/or nail length. It practically applied itself, and dried with no texture. 

I'm Your Number 1 Fan is the perfect earthy green for this fall. I love the depth and softness the flakes add. With a cap of only 80 bottles, you may need some ninja fingers to get this one. Make sure to set your alarms for 11:00 AM EST this Friday to get yours. Find out more information about Pepper Pot Polish on their website, Instagram, Facebook, or Facebook Fan Group while you can find more about PPU on their Facebook page and website.

*These polishes were provided by the company or PR representative. All reviews are based solely on my opinion. For more information, please see my full disclosure at the bottom of the site*

Pepper Pot Polish Wild Planet Collection Swatches and Reviews

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Hi guys! You know I'm such a slacker, so I know you're surprised I'm blogging 2 days in a row. I just couldn't wait any longer to show you a brand new collection from Pepper Pot Polish inspired by the totally awesome band, the B-52s. I was born in the 80s, and went to high school during the late 90s, so you know I'm well-versed in all things B-52s. I can remember dancing to "Love Shack" during Homecoming and thinking I was so cool. This is what Mackenzie has to say about the collection: 

""Wild Planet" is a collection inspired by one of my favorite bands growing up, the B-52s! I wanted a color palette that reflected their silly and eclectic style & is Spring/Summer ready. This collection pairs perfectly with that loud polyester shirt you've had hanging in the closet for the last few decades, and absolutely DEMANDS you drive around the city with your windows rolled down and your music blaring (preferable playing "Rock Lobster").

I think the essence of the B-52s really came through in the 4-piece set she came up with. Before I forget to mention it, my personal favorite song happens to be "Good Stuff."

You know your foot was tapping through the whole thing! Ok, this set is being released at the same time as It's Winston! this Friday, May 11th at noon PST. Twenty percent of all total sales from the store between May 11-May 18 will go toward the Seattle Humane Society, so if you've been waiting to order, please do so for the animals. Shall we get a closer look at these beauties? 

Pepper Pot Polish Fundraiser Color: It's Winston! (inspired by @winstonpurrchill)

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Hi guys! I spent this past weekend in Chicago for work and I'm happy to be home in my own bed. The blog will be featuring the indie brand Pepper Pot Polish this week, so make sure to stop back to see what Mackenzie has in store for you. Tonight I have a fundraiser polish that was created in partnership with the famous cat Winston Churchill (@winstonpurrchill on Instagram). Mackenzie is a huge cat lover (as am I) and she has graciously offered to donate 20% of all proceeds made in her store between 12pm PST May 11th & 11:59pm PST May 18th to the Seattle Humane Society. It's Winston! will be available as a pre-order during this time, and will not be made again (expect It's Winston! to ship ~2 weeks after the pre-order). If you order the exclusive polish, along with regular store items, all product will be treated like pre-order items and shipped at the later time frame. Shall we get a little more acquainted with It's Winston!? 

Pepper Pot Polish Paradise Found Collection 2017 Swatches and Reviews

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Hi guys! I know it's been a hot minute since I've posted, but I was super busy in LA last week. The weather was beautiful out there, but I didn't get to enjoy it since I was working the whole time. Tonight I'm debuting Pepper Pot Polish's Paradise Found Collection on the blog. The owner, Mackenzie, is from Washington state, and there's been some awesome press surrounding the brand (see here and here). It's a 5-piece collection of creamy shimmers inspired by 1960's ads from Hawaii. It will make more sense in just a moment. This set will release this Friday, February 23rd, at 12 PM PST. Each polish will retail for $10 each, or $45 for the collection. I mean, you may as well buy all of them because they're beautiful and you can save yourself $5! Shall we get a closer look?