Why OPI Big Apple Red Still Reigns After 25 Years
This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission if you make a purchase — at no extra cost to you. OPI Big Apple Red GelColor was gifted by Beyond Polish as a PR sample, but all other products featured and opinions are my own. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
It was released as part of the Fall 2000 New York City Collection and it remains one of the most well known red nail colors around the world.
It’s also one of the first shades I shared on the blog and I still love it today.
One of the things I love about it is that this vibrant, bold classic red is available in so many different formulas.
What I love most about OPI Big Apple Red is that it’s one of those reds you can wear throughout the year.
On the blog, it’s most popular in the heat of summer and during the fall and winter, especially around the holidays, but it is truly a year round red.
The shade comes in handy.
It’s a color I reach for when I’m tired of choosing other things, so I use it as a fall back shade - an old, trusty color that I return to after I’ve been swatching a bunch of new shades.
All the other supplies I purchased myself.
You will also learn why Big Apple Red still reigns supreme after 2 decades in a list below.
But before we get there, let’s discuss the ingredients in OPI’s Intelli-Gel GelColor formula of Big Apple Red.
The ingredients of OPI Big Apple Red Intelli-Gel GelColor are:
Ingredients (Big Apple Red): Polyurethane-57, Benzyl Methacrylate, PEG-9 Dimethacrylate, Ethyl Trimethylbenzoyl Phenylphosphinate, Trimethylolpropane Trimethacrylate, Isobornyl Methacrylate, Silica, Bis-Trimethylbenzoyl Phenylphosphine Oxide, BHT, p-Hydroxyanisole, Hydroquinone, [May Contain/Peut Contenir/+/-: Red 7 Lake (CI 15850), Red 6 Lake (CI 15850), Red 30 Lake (CI 73360)].
As you can see, it’s both HEMA Free and TPO Free.
It has a small amount of Hydroquinone that helps prevent the polish from hardening in the bottle before it is cured.
It works by stopping the solidifying chemical reactions from occurring prematurely, giving the gel polish a reasonable shelf life. It’s permitted in very low concentrations in the EU in nail systems.
I love that the formula omits the main controversial ingredients; HEMA being an allergen for some and TPO recently being banned in the EU.
It only contains what’s necessary for it to work and for us to still get a quality, high performing product that will stay usable for 18 months or 80 applications, whichever comes first.
As we dive in, for this manicure I used:
- Cuticle pusher
- Nail files (100/180 grit and glass)
- Buffing block
- Primer (optional)
- OPI Big Apple Red in Intelli-Gel GelColor
- OPI Intelli-Gel Base & Top Coat
- OPI Star Lamp
- N.A.S. 99 Cleanser or similar 99% isopropyl alcohol solution
- Lint Free Wipes - OPI Expert Touch or any other brand you have
- Clean up brush
- Cuticle oil
Here are some photos of the finished look in 2 coats:
OPI Big Apple Red Gel Color
Okay, so now you have a gorgeous vibrant red manicure that is rock solid - no chances for smudges hours later!
How long will your OPI Big Apple Red GelColor Manicure last?
The longevity of OPI Intelli-Gel Gel Color is up to 21 days.
The shortest amount of time I have worn it is 10 days, and this is only because I needed to move on to another lacquer collection for a partner - not because of performance issues.
The only time it has lasted less than 10 days is when I tested OPI GelColor with a non-OPI gel lamp.
Then, for the longest wear, follow a few simple aftercare tips — daily cuticle oil, minimal soaking in water and no picking!
Whether you’ve worn it since the early 2000s or are just discovering this classic red, it’s the kind of shade that never goes out of style.
8 reasons why OPI Big Apple Red remains loved after 25 years:
1. It’s the Perfect Universal Red
2. A True “Power Color”
This shade exudes confidence and sophistication. Big Apple Red is a bold, statement-making red that instantly pulls a look together.
It’s often described as “the little black dress of nail polish.”
3. Timeless, Not Trendy
While many nail trends come and go (chrome, jelly, glazed, etc.), Big Apple Red never looks dated. Its classic, glossy finish and clean tone work for any era and any occasion.
4. Available in Every Formula Type
No matter your nail preference, you can wear this signature shade your way.
5. Long-Lasting Performance
This performance keeps loyal fans (like us) coming back.
6. Year-Round Versatility
It works across all seasons — bright enough for summer, classic enough for fall, and festive enough for the holidays.
There are very few reds that can transition seamlessly throughout the year, but somehow Big Apple Red does it.
7. An Icon Born in New York
Released as part of the Fall 2000 New York City Collection, Big Apple Red captures the essence and timeless allure of New York City — a story that still resonates with fans around the world.
8. A Trusted, Reliable Formula
Its continued popularity isn’t just nostalgia — it’s backed by real fans and professionals who keep it in their kits.
Nail techs and at-home DIYers love it for its coverage, consistency, and iconic color payoff; it’s bold and full coverage in 2 coats, no matter which formula I’ve tested!
Final Thoughts
From summer pedicures to festive winter manis, Big Apple Red delivers that perfect pop of confidence and color every single time — plus, in its Intelli-Gel GelColor formula, you’ll enjoy up to 3 weeks of flawless wear.
💅 Celebrate 25 years of a true classic — make Big Apple Red your next manicure moment!
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