Dressed to Give: OPI nails giving back

Photo by Andrew Stawarz

Fashionistas know that even the most fabulous rings or sandals won't make up for badly manicured nails. Which is why when I was in Los Angeles last week, I was eager to schedule a mani/pedi at ROB/B Salon, the first OPI concept salon. I've long been a fan of OPI's nail lacquers for their superior quality and fabulous colors (not to mention the fun names)! But as I walked through the doors of the salon, I realized I didn't know much about OPI as a company. Well, I was about to learn my favorite brand of nail polish was a powerhouse of corporate social responsibility (CSR), with a strong commitment to the environment and giving back to the local community and the world at large!

My experience at ROB/B Salon serves as the perfect example of OPI's commitment to ensuring its products and operations are safe for consumers, employees and the environment. The salon provides first-class service while taking being "green" to the next level. The building is Gold LEED certified while not compromising on ambiance. Think relaxing music, flowing water, inviting scents, and natural light. I was offered a sparkling herbal tonic while being seated in a comfy massage chair. After picking out my color (I'm Indi-a Mood for Love, a spring-y fuchsia), I received the most luxurious spa treatment of my life. I never thought my nails could look so fabulously "green"!

I decided I needed to further investigate OPI to learn more. What I found is that through the company and the CEO and Founder's family foundation, OPI has an exemplary reputation of giving back. With a focus on children's and health-related issues, OPI has donated millions to support local and global causes. The complete list of ways they give back is extensive (see About OPI: Giving Back), so I'd like to highlight some of my favorites.

Custom Nail Lacquers

OPI has created exclusive Nail Lacquers to raise awareness and funds for specific causes (breast cancer research) and organizations (the American Heart Association and the American Red Cross). This spring, they've created a fresh, silvery blue color called Breathe Life to support the Lung Cancer Foundation of America. Because lung cancer is the #1 cancer killer of women, this is a cause that's clearly important to OPI and its clientele.

Nicole by OPI: Colors with a Conscience

The Nicole by OPI nail lacquer line has a philosophy of "Respect Yourself. Respect the World." Furthering OPI's pledge to philanthropy, the Nicole site features Kristi Yamaguchi and other celebrities talking about the importance of giving back. There's even a call to action, encouraging people to volunteer and listing over 20 organizations to find opportunities to give back!

OPI's fabulous products, top-notch "green" concept salon, commendable CSR policy, and long history of philanthropy make it one of my favorite companies. To find out where you can buy OPI products, check out the locator tool. To stay on top of the latest nail trends, visit Suzi's (OPI Artistic Director and "First Lady of Nails") blog.

Feel free to share your favorite OPI lacquer, or suggest a cause that deserves its exclusive color.

Tags: dressed to give green leed opi rob/b salon