That’s because Essie Weingarten, president and CEO of Essie Cosmetics, has elevated the naming of polish colors to an artform. “She’s the brain behind those ubiquitous square-bottled nail polished with the glorious colors and unforgettable names,” says a May 16 article in New York’s Daily News

“Customers may not remember the full name, but if it’s descriptive…they’ll remember enough to help the manicurist find the color they want,” says Weingarten. Buy Me a Cameo, Bit a Sweet Mauve, and Hotsee Totsee are among the names that made the cut. Suggestions from friends and customers that didn’t pass muster include Stir Fry Brown; Red Cabbage, and Fuzzy Navel.

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