Sparkly Nails on the Cheap

So we've had a gander at Estee Lauder's fancy-schmancy nail lacquer but if you're not into paying megabucks for varnish, then you don't have to. There are loads of cheaper brands who have lovely sparkly stuff to slap on your fingers. You probably won't get the same non-chip and longevity factor, but for a night out, they'll do a grand job, and they're all under a tenner.

Rimmel 60 Seconds Vinyl Stars polish provides high shine, in 12 sparkling shades. You just slap on one coat, it dries in one minute and then you're good to go. Barry M is giltter-tastic on the varnish front too - their Glitter Nail Paints come in 11 bright shades, all a-burstin' with glitter particles. Yay! Pop Beauty Nail Glamour polishes in Ruby, Sazzy and Jazzy Glimmer contain loads of nice sparkle too, and you can buy these in Topshop in Jervis St. in Dublin (that's according to their website, but I've seen Pop stuff in loads of other Topshops too, so just have a look).

If you're after a finish that's more shimmery than glittery then take a look at No 17's High Gloss Nail Polishes, which come in 10 shades, and should set you back under a fiver. Bourjois Very Vernis comes in 24 shades, some of which are glitterier than others - in particular Blanc Prismatic, Paillettes disco and Champagne irisé are all fab and not very subtle at all - oh just the way I like it. Miss Sporty have fab metal effect polishes called Metallic Shine which comes in 4 shades, and they can also oblige with a range called Twinkle Shine, also available in 4 shades. You'll get them in larger Boots stores and also in Superdrug stores.

Or gals, if you're of a creative bent, you could even make your own glittery nails. Take yourself off to an Art & Hobby Shop and get yer paws on some glitter and sprinkles (if you have makeup quality stuff that'll do just as well too). You'll also need clear or coloured varnish, depending on the sort of finish you're after. Paint a coat of varnish on, adorn liberally with glitter and allow to dry. Paint another layer or two over the top, and et voila, you'll have custom nails of glittering splendour!