If you’re serious about nail art, you probably already know that indie nail polishes are the secret to making your manicure stand out. While big brands like Zoya, China Glaze, Essie, and OPI always have great colors and finishes, there’s something special about wearing a polish that’s a little less mainstream. Plus, after a while, you might find yourself owning most of their collections—so why not explore the world of indie polishes?
One of the most sought-after indie polishes on the market is Cover Band Lacquers’ Sticks ‘n Stones. This black-and-white matte glitter top coat has quickly become a favorite because it can transform any manicure into something bold and eye-catching. It’s the kind of polish that makes you wonder how your nails ever looked good without it.
Sticks ‘n Stones is available exclusively on NinjaPolish.com, a go-to spot for indie nail polishes. Since it tends to sell out fast, you might need to sign up for restock notifications. This polish is inspired by another indie favorite, Lynnderella’s Connect the Dots. While I haven’t tried the Lynnderella version—partly because it’s nearly impossible to find and partly because it can cost over $100—I’ve seen plenty of comparisons online. Personally, I prefer the chunkier glitter in Sticks ‘n Stones.
Like most glitter polishes, it can be a hassle to remove, but that’s a small price to pay for its long-lasting effect. I’ve worn it for over a week without any chipping, which is pretty impressive.
At $9, Sticks ‘n Stones is worth every penny. You can layer it over a gradient, bare nails, geometric designs, or solid colors. Depending on the base shade, it can give off a retro vibe or even a cool paint-splatter effect. If you’re looking to add something unique to your nail polish collection, this one is definitely a must-have.