Lifestyle Mirror

As dimensions go, three are better than two. If you apply this sentiment to your nails, then you’re probably more than a little excited about holographic nail polish – a trend that Layla Cosmetics seems to have mastered. The company’s eight shades challenged my understanding of spatiality, and gave me the coolest nails in the room.

In honor of summer, the pool I wish I had, and the leading lady of my favorite Disney movie, I chose Mermaid Spell – the perfect shade of aquamarine. I started by buffing my nails with Layla’s two-sided emery board, which resulted in nails so pretty and glossy I was tempted to stop there. The first coat of polish dried almost instantly, and its iridescence began to take effect after the second (and, in my case, third) was applied. Topcoat is a crucial last step, as the polish’s formula is prone to chipping.  A quick layer of Seche Vitedid the trick, giving the nails incredible shine that, along with the holographic effect, which was only intensified as I took my manicure out into the light of day. —Laura Carroll

Photographed with a Chanel bag.