Models Own Velvet Goth Collection - Absinthe & Valerian

Models Own released one of their new autumn collections quite recently and I managed to beat the rush and grab two of the shades from my local Boots (buy one get one half price too!).

I'm terribly predictable and despite my self-imposed ban on new polish I managed to pick myself up the blue (Valerian) and the green (Absinthe) out of the 5 colour set. The ones I'm missing, Sardonyx, Amethyst and Obsidian - Red, Purple and Black respectively - are a definite temptation after seeing how these two beauties came out.

Beware... this post is pic heavy!

The Velvet Goth collection is quite unique among big brand polishes in that its a matte finish glitter-bomb, something which I've not really seen before - especially on the high street. Due to its matte finish this polish dries fast. Like, super fast. The pictures here are all 2 coats either without or with a single coat of Sally Hansen Insta Dri top coat.

Without the top coat, Absinthe is a sparkly riot of green glitter with a delightful matte twist. Its super pigmented and completely packed with sparkle - great for getting your talons (or in my case, nubbins) noticed!

However, when you put topcoat on ... This polish just goes absolutely wild.

The gloss topcoat makes the glitter even more pronounced and darkens the base ever so slightly so the contrast between the two is more pronounced.

Valerian is the same quick drying, highly pigmented, packed full of glitter formula but is a gorgeous, rich sapphire blue. Super classy looking in its natural matte finish.

And once again a complete sparklebomb when covered with a gloss top coat.

I'm not sure which of these two I love the most to be honest. I love the colour on both, and I really can't fault the polishes themselves for their great application and drying times. I think my love of green might just edge the Absinthe out in front of Valerian. This will probably change tomorrow!

Might have to pick up the other three.... so much for my no buy!