I know matte nail polish is nothing new, but only in the last few weeks with the release of some new matte collections have I actually started getting into it.

Unfortunately matte shades don’t last anywhere near as long as gloss polishes, but because of the impact they make, are totally worth it.   Also matte shades should not be used with a top coat or any quick dry products as they will lose their matte properties. However, I do suggest using either of Zoya's base coats - Anchor or Get Even (ridge filling) which will eliminate staining and give the matte polish more 'cling' power.

Matte nail polish dries fast, I mean lightening fast, so you must work quickly and meticulously. Any hesitation in your brush stroke will show as will any imperfections in your nail bed, like ridges. The polish is thick and highly pigmented but because of the difficulty in getting it smooth, you really need to do three coats.

Originally, matte polish could not be used along with hand creams, cuticle moisturiser; or come in contact with any other oil-based cosmetics, but thankfully the nail companies seem to have sorted that little problem out. 

Zoya have just released 3 new shimmer matte shades for winter which will join the existing Matte Velvet shades launched back in August 2009.  They are Savita (purple), Harlow (pink) and Veruschka (green).

ORLY has introduced their Metal Chic Collection which includes three beautiful matte shades that are infused with shimmer for an effortlessly luxe look. Solid Gold is a creamy vintage gold with a matte finish. Reminiscent of the starry night sky, Iron Butterfly is a black shade with silver shimmer – my personal fav, and Glam Rock is an opulent velvet copper.

The OPI Matte Collection which was launched back in July 09 consists of 6 of OPI’s most in-demand shades: Russian Navy, Lincoln Park After Dark, Alpine Snow, La Paz-Itively Hot, Gargantuan Green Grape and You Don’t Know Jacques!

I also love the matte collection by Knock Out Cosmetics, Flatte Black (pictured) and Match, a hot coral pink are my must haves from them.

Essie has a fabulous product called Matte About You which helps turn matte even the glossiest nail polish. A single layer hides the original shine of any nail polish. Matte nail polish is going to be very popular this winter and with the help of Matte About You, you can turn your favorite nail polish into a trendy one.