Product(s) in this post were provided for review. Read my disclosure policy here.
Inspired by hues of the rainbow, The Arcus Collection consists of 12 brightly-colored nail lacquers just in time for the summer. The first half of the collection explores the primary and secondary colors of the spectrum in variety of finishes from a fiery holographic red to a regal purple micro-glitter. The second half of the collection focuses on multi-colored “toppers”, such as whimsical squares, punchy neons and polychromatic sparkles, designed to be used over existing colors.
Cirque's much anticipated third collection released almost a year to the day since the debut Dark Horse collection is all about color. Consisting of polishes that use brightly colored pigments, iridescent particles, and holographic effects, the twelve new nail polishes in the Arcus collection celebrate the rainbow in a few different ways. In this post, I'll be reviewing Vesuvius, Sanguine, Helios, Erda, Bejeweled, and Queen Majesty (here is my review of Electric Circus, Kaleidoscope, Le Invader, Lullaby, Magic Hour, and Iris).
Newly revealed with the Arcus collection are streamlined bottles and new packaging. The new bottles are similar to the old bottles but are slightly slimmer all around (you still get the same 0.45 mL of product). The Cirque emblem is now screen printed on the bottle. I adore the original black labels but understand that the new labeling is more efficient for Annie :) The new design overall is still very sleek looking and maintains the brand's image.
Cirque polishes now arrive packaged individually in a black cardboard box. There is a sticker with the name of the polish on the top of the box so you will easily be able to locate a particular polish (especially if you keep them in a drawer!) I love the new packaging - it looks and feels very high end.
Let's take a look at the polishes!
Vesuvius
Annie describes Vesuvius as a "strawberry red with a rainbow holographic finish", and I sure can't think of a better way to describe it. The application is great and on par with Cirque's other holos (Fascination Street, Lonesome George,etc). There are no formula flaws that can typically plague holo polishes such as patchiness or holo clumping. Vesuvius is opaque in just (2) coats.
Sanguine
At first glance, Sanguine appears to be a metallic orange. Upon closer examination, you will see a color shift from orange to pink to yellow. Sanguine is quite a chameleon! The formula is quite sheer but this makes it a great layering polish (note to self: try Sanguine over black!) Sanguine dries to a streak-free satin finish and is opaque in (3) coats.
Helios
Helios is a gold glitter nail polish with a touch of holo glitter to liven things up. The coverage is very even and easy to apply. While not a one-coat glitter, adding a layer of Helios over another polish would be a most excellent upgrade. I'm wearing (3) coats.
Erda
Erda is a shimmery metallic cool forest green with a hint of duochrome action. It's not dramatic, but there is a slight color shift from green to a deeper and bluer green. Erda is sheer but easy to apply and dries semi-matte. I'm wearing (3) coats.
Bejeweled
Bejeweled is a welcome addition to Cirque's holo family! This denim blue holographic polish has the best pigmentation of this half of the Arcus collection and is just about opaque in one coat. Like Vesuvius and the other Cirque holos, there are no formula flaws that can typically plague holo polishes such as patchiness or holo clumping. Love!
Queen Majesty
Queen Majesty is a royal concoction of purple, fuchsia, and blurple glitter in several sizes. The composition reminds me of Cirque's blue glitter Lapis from the Objet d'Art collection. While coverage is not dense, Queen Majesty applies very evenly. This regal polish would look great layered over another color. I'm wearing (3) coats.
Here are a few pictures of Vesuvius and Bejeweled in full sun:
I'd love to hear what you think! Which colors are going on your wish list?
Cirque polishes can be purchased online: http://www.cirquecolors.com/arcus-collection/. Sanguine, Helios, Erda, and Queen Majesty retail for $13. Vesuvius and Bejeweled retail for $15. In NYC? You can purchase the Arcus collection and Cirque polishes at International Playground (13 Stanton St).
About Cirque
Creator, Annie Pham, sought to develop nail polish colors that transcend those of conventional brands. By experimenting with unique pigments and raw materials, a distinctive handcrafted product was born. Cirque products are 3-free, which means it does not contain the toxic trio of toluene, formaldehyde and dibutyl phthalate. They are also scented with lavender and clary sage essential oils to lend hands a subtle scent as the polish dries.
For more information about Cirque, please contact: info@cirquecolors.com. Be sure to check out Cirque's Facebook page for news and updates.
Product(s) in this post were provided for review. Read my disclosure policy here.