OPI First Date at the Golden Gate Review, Photos, & Swatches

OPI First Date at the Golden Gate

Golden Gate red!

OPI First Date at the Golden Gate (Mini set: $12.95 USD for 0.5 oz./15 ml.; Full size: $9 USD for 0.5 oz./15 ml.) is described as a “shimmery ruby.” First, it has absolutely no shimmer and, second, it is not at all close to a ruby red. It is a dark, warm-toned red with a cream finish. Actually, I find the name of the polish very apropos, as this is very close in color-darker-to The Golden Gate Bridge.

Although the application of this shade was a bit easier than the rest of the shades I have reviewed from this set (I finally found a way to work with the small brush), the pigmentation was uneven. It is not too noticeable from afar, but up close you can see minor streaks of darker color. I do not think you will encounter this problem with the full-sized brush. I used OPI Natural Nail Base Coat and Zoya Armor for the top coat and applied three very thin coats of the polish. I had pretty good wear with this color-a week with signs of minor tip wear, but no chipping or peeling.

Important Note: The grade for this nail polish is based on the mini size, not the full-sized version. I suspect the full-sized version would yield a smoother application and finish, and a higher rating, due to the larger brush size.

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