[unpaid/sample] It’s an age since I’ve seen anything Orly and my initial impression of their 50 year celebration collection was apprehensive. The colour choice feels a bit jarring to the modern nail eye, but, I’ve sat with them for a while and they’ve grown on me – especially Acid Trip, the glitter fest.

Orly was founded in 1975 by Jeff Pink in LA – apparently dubbed the Godfather of the Nail Industry for creating the French manicure to save actresses time between wardrobe changes. Fashion took it to the Paris runways and the name, French Manicure, was born. Who knew?! The brand remains within the family.

So, let’s wander through the 70’s – avocado bathrooms, bell bottom jeans, tye-dye everything and Chopper bikes. The glamour of a Teasmade (gosh, how we wanted one of those!), the Atari games console (anyone remember that mad, blipping tennis game?), Citizen Smith (Wolfie!!), Are You Being Served? (are you free, Mrs Slocombe?) And of course, the trauma of Skippy The Bush Kangaroo – the tension was too much.

Bohemian Child

The shade names are fun – Acid Trip, Shaggin Wagon, Hunky Dory, Bohemian Child, Bell Bottom Blues and Night Fever. Orly’s formula is thinner than brands like Nails Inc so you’ll need three coats for fully reliable coverage, especially with the lighter colours.

Hunky Dory

It’s worth the effort though for the high shine and close-to-professional results. The celebration set is currently reduced from £70.50 to £39.95 HERE but you can buy the colours individually as well.