Little Cosmetics Pretend Nail Polish and Lipstick Accessory Set

By Little Cosmetics
Price $8.99
Age 3-6 yrs.

This mess-free pretend makeup does a remarkable job of looking like the real thing, inspiring countless play scenarios and interactions in which little girls get to act just like Mom. Tilt the bottle of nail polish, and the liquid and bubbles inside stir and swirl as if ready to come out. But removing the cap reveals that the brush applicator that appeared to be immersed in polish is perfectly dry. Invert the bottle and nothing comes out. It's a fine bit of visual mimicry that lends pretend play exactly the sort of realism youngsters find so exhilarating. The lipstick cylinder has a mechanical functionality that makes for a particularly convincing prop: twist the bottom and the pink lipstick (which is plastic) emerges. Reverse the twist and it retreats back into its casing, just like real lipstick would do. Little Cosmetics' excellent attention to detail, coupled with the mess-free nature of its products, made it a hit with parents and children alike.