Chanel Rouge Rubis Le Vernis Nail Lacquer ($27.00 for 0.34 fl. oz.) is described as a “vivid red.” It’s a brilliantly bright, medium red with neutral undertones–balanced between warm and cool. Sometimes it looks almost warm-toned, and then it would look cool-toned; it’s very well-balanced. The texture is more jelly than it is cream, and it had such a naturally high-shine finish. It was opaque in two coats.  I normally get a week of wear with Chanel’s polish (but almost nothing chips on me), though I know that Chanel’s formula can be hit or miss for many!

There are plenty of similar shades, since it is a rather opaque red! It really depends on whether you’re looking for a perfectly neutral red or don’t mind one that leans cool or warm. MAC RiRi Woo (LE, $16.00) is cooler-toned, cream. MAC Touch of Red (LE, $16.00) is similar. MAC Russian Red (LE, $16.00) is cooler-toned. MAC Flaming Rose (P, $16.00) is pinker. Guerlain Champs-Elysees (P, $23.00) is slightly pinker.Dior Marilyn (LE, $26.00) is darker. Cult Nails Evil Queen (P, $12.00) is very similar. China Glaze Hey Sailor (LE, $8.00) is cooler-toned. Zoya Sooki (P, $8.00) is warmer. Essie Silken Cord (LE, $8.00) is cooler-toned. See comparison swatches.

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Chanel Rouge Rubis Le Vernis Nail Lacquer

Chanel Rouge Rubis Le Vernis Nail Lacquer

Chanel Rouge Rubis Le Vernis Nail Lacquer

Chanel Rouge Rubis Le Vernis Nail Lacquer

Chanel Rouge Rubis Le Vernis Nail Lacquer

Chanel Rouge Rubis Le Vernis Nail Lacquer

Chanel Rouge Rubis Le Vernis Nail Lacquer

Chanel Rouge Rubis Le Vernis Nail Lacquer