OPI Archives

In my Internet Media Class today, we used a site called archive.org. One of the site's features allows you to view archives of pretty much any website, and of course I had to check out some nail polish websites. I thought what I found was pretty interesting, and so I'll be featuring the progressions of nail polish websites in a few upcoming posts. Today, I'm starting with OPI. In 2002, this is what OPI's main page looked like (click to enlarge any of these pics):

This only took up about 1/3 of my computer screen, and while it's a lot better-looking than some other websites from that period, I don't think it's particularly remarkable. After looking at the main page, I decided to check out some of their collections.

European Collection

Far East Collection

New York City Collection

For some reason, some of the pictures refused to show up...sorry about that. Anyway, I'm sure you can all tell that most of these colors are pink or red. I think I see about two purples? I know a lot of people complain about OPI only putting out reds and pinks; well, we've come a long way, folks. I also particularly noticed one polish in the Far East collection: Pearl of Wisdom. There is a polish called Pearl of Wisdom in the Hong Kong collection from earlier this year, and as far as I can tell from comparing my bottle and the picture, they are exactly the same. Caught you, OPI! Also, who knew OPI produced lipsticks? Not me, for sure.

And for a little perspective, here's a screenshot of the current OPI site:

Gorgeous!

What do you think of this post? Are you interested in seeing more? (I'm thinking Essie next...)