American nail polish authority known for its salon-quality formulas and extensive palette of whimsical color names.
ORIGIN
USA
PRICE TIER
affordable
Founded by Essie Weingarten in 1981, Essie revolutionized the nail industry by bringing a collection of 12 unconventional polishes to Las Vegas. The brand quickly became a salon staple, celebrated for its chip-resistant, long-lasting formulas and a seemingly endless array of colors with witty, memorable names. Its iconic square bottle, introduced in 1985, houses some of the most famous shades in nail history, including the royally-approved 'Ballet Slippers,' a favorite of Queen Elizabeth II. From its early adoption by salon professionals and celebrities to its acquisition by L'Oréal in 2010, Essie has maintained its status as a leader in nail luxury.