Turning Back the Clock on Mackinac Island
Turning Back the Clock on Mackinac Island
Mackinac Island
Capture the essence of Mackinac Island's natural beauty and rich history with this delicate sheer pink nail polish.
Finish: Sheer
Description: Mackinac Island is a subtle, sheer pink polish that embodies the timeless charm of its namesake. This elegant shade adds a feminine and refined touch to your nails without being overpowering. Inspired by the island's Victorian-era allure, stunning landscapes, and iconic landmarks like Arch Rock and the Grand Hotel, this polish allows you to carry a piece of Mackinac's magic wherever you go. The sheer formula provides a natural, understated look that's perfect for both casual outings and formal events.
Key Benefits:
10-free formula, excluding harmful chemicals for a safer manicure experience
100% vegan and cruelty-free, aligning with eco-conscious values
Chip-resistant and long-lasting
Non-staining formula that cares for your nails
Handmade with love in Traverse City, Michigan
Application Tips: For a delicate Mackinac Island effect, apply 1-3 thin coats, allowing each layer to dry completely. The sheer formula builds beautifully, allowing you to control the intensity of the color. Seal with our 30 Second Quick Drying Top Coat for extended wear and vibrancy.
Perfect For:
Those who prefer a subtle, natural touch of color
Fans of Mackinac Island and its rich history
Adding a touch of elegance to any outfit
Professional settings or special occasions requiring a refined look
Read our blog posts about this charming island:
If you are looking for a break from the noise, pollution, and constant motion of everyday life, Mackinac Island is the perfect getaway. Here, you can relax, enjoy beautiful scenery and views of the Great Lakes, and indulge on world-famous fudge.
Transform any polish with Mighty Mac, a matte-drying clear top coat that instantly removes shine for a sleek, modern look. Apply over any color to achieve a smooth, matte finish and give your manicure a stylish, muted effect.
It is located in the Straits of Mackinac, between the Upper and Lower Peninsulas of Michigan, which are connected by the impressive Mackinac Bridge, the third-longest suspension bridge in the United States.
A few years ago, we decided to take the family to Mackinac Island for a vacation and we were glad we did! There was something for everyone, from exploring the island on horseback to learning about its history. Mostly we enjoyed reconnecting with nature. There are no cars allowed on Mackinac Island, so you get around by horse, carriage, bicycle, and on foot.
After a scenic drive to Mackinaw City, we left our car and cares behind and embarked on the short ferry ride to the island, where we found ourselves transported to another place and time. At the port, a concierge greeted us and collected our luggage and we immediately felt relaxed and welcome.
We stayed in a charming little inn. There are no chain hotels on Mackinac Island, but plenty of lodging options ranging from bed & breakfasts to condos. And of course, there is the historic and unique Grand Hotel. Built in 1887 in only ninety-three days, the Grand Hotel boasts the world’s largest front porch at 660 feet. It still retains its original charm and character; no two rooms are the same and the décor is fun and eclectic.
Just Keep Pedaling 🚲
Capture the charm of Mackinac Island with our playful Just Keep Pedaling nail polish.
Finish: Shimmery, creme
Description: Inspired by the spirit of perseverance and determination, Just Keep Pedaling is an upbeat medium mauve pink creme with a slight frosted shimmer. This versatile shade serves as a reminder to keep going, no matter how tough the journey. It is inspired by the bicycle culture on beautiful Mackinac Island. Mackinac Island famously bans motorized vehicles, making bicycles a primary mode of transportation.
Key Benefits:
10-free formula, excluding harmful chemicals for a safer manicure experience
100% vegan and cruelty-free, aligning with eco-conscious values
Chip-resistant and long-lasting
Non-staining formula that cares for your nails
Handmade with love in Traverse City, Michigan
Application Tips: For the full Just Keep Pedaling effect, apply 2-3 thin coats, allowing each layer to dry completely. Seal with our 30 Second Quick Drying Top Coat for extended wear and added brilliance.
Perfect For:
Michigan travel enthusiasts and Mackinac Island lovers
Those who appreciate a refreshing, mauve pink nail color
Adding a touch of island charm to your everyday look
Celebrating Michigan's unique car-free island paradise
We rented bikes and they served us well in getting around the 3.8 square mile island. We used them in town and spent an afternoon biking the eight-mile loop along the coast, known as M-185.
M-185 is a sleek grey creme nail polish inspired by the scenic road that circles Mackinac Island, known for its car-free environment where bikes reign supreme. This polished shade captures the essence of the island's charm and tranquility, making it a perfect choice for those who appreciate a laid-back lifestyle.
With its smooth application and full coverage, M-185 adds a modern touch to your manicure, reminiscent of the peaceful bike rides along the island’s picturesque shoreline. Celebrate the beauty of Mackinac Island and its unique character with this stylish grey polish.
According to the Michigan Department of Transportation, M-185 is "the only state highway in the nation where motor vehicles are banned". Downtown, the highway is called Main Street, and Lake Shore Road elsewhere. M-185 passes by several important sites within Mackinac Island State Park, including Fort Mackinac, Arch Rock, British Landing, and Devil's Kitchen.
On one side there are stunning views of Lake Huron, while on the other the island’s many parks and natural beauty can be seen. Along the way, we stopped at the British landing, where the British captured Fort Mackinac and Mackinac Island from American troops during the War of 1812, and Arch Rock, an awesome natural rock bridge formation that offers fantastic views.
Shimmering peach sheer nail polish that is inspired by Arch Rock, on Mackinac Island.
Arch Rock is one of the natural wonders of the Midwest and one of the most popular tourist attractions on Mackinac Island. It is a magnificent rock formation that stands at 146 feet above the water and is 50 feet wide.
As you approach the rock formation, the sight of it will take your breath away. The grandeur of the rock towering above the water, the way it has been carved by the forces of nature, and the way it contrasts with the blue of the lake and the sky, create a sense of wonder and amazement for all ages to enjoy while they visit the island.
(It was a little hard to navigate while waddling around pregnant, but fortunately there are horse carriage tours that bring you right to the top!)
Among Mackinac Island’s vast State park is a limestone formation known as Arch Rock. To this day Arch Rock stands on the Lake Huron shoreline 146 feet above the water.
A unique aspect of the island is its horse culture. We learned that on Mackinac Island, horses always have the right of way. Horse-drawn carriages and taxis are used to get around. For our kids, going horseback riding on a trail through the woods was definitely a highlight of the trip.
For me, learning about the island’s colorful history was the highlight. We toured Fort Mackinac, where we witnessed a historical reenactment. On a rainy day, we checked out the Stuart House City Museum, which tells the island’s history through the use of old photographs and models. Built in 1817 as the Agent’s House of the American Fur Company, the house itself is a historical monument.
While we enjoyed checking out the many quaint restaurants and shops, most memorable were the fudge shops. Mackinac Island is famous for its fudge and it comes in countless flavors and varieties. At Murdick’s, the original fudge shop that opened in 1887, you can watch the process of fudge being made. We ending up bringing home way too much fudge, but it was nice to bring back a piece of the experience and to share it with our friends.
Lovely Lilac Lane 💜
Capture the enchanting beauty of Mackinac Island's lilacs with this purple polish.
Finish: Creme, with a shimmer
Description: Lovely Lilac Lane is a captivating shimmering lilac purple polish inspired by the breathtaking lilacs of Mackinac Island. This enchanting shade embodies the essence of the island's annual Lilac Festival, where over 1,000 lilac bushes burst into bloom each spring. The delicate shimmer in this polish reflects the magical atmosphere of the island, evoking memories of fragrant purple flowers and charming Victorian architecture.
Key Benefits:
10-free formula, excluding harmful chemicals for a safer manicure experience
100% vegan and cruelty-free, aligning with eco-conscious values
Chip-resistant and long-lasting
Non-staining formula that cares for your nails
Handmade with love in Traverse City, Michigan
Application Tips: For the full Lovely Lilac Lane effect, apply 2-3 thin coats, allowing each layer to dry completely. Seal with our 30 Second Quick Drying Top Coat for extended wear and to enhance the subtle shimmer.
Perfect For:
Mackinac Island enthusiasts and lilac lovers
Those who appreciate feminine, floral-inspired nail colors
Adding a touch of springtime romance to your look
Creating a memorable manicure for special events or everyday wear
It is no surprise that tourists return to Mackinac Island year after year. It offers such a different experience from other destinations. For our family, it was an opportunity to slow down, enjoy spending time together, and to create many lasting memories.
The nail polishes by Northern Nail Polish, inspired by the island and surrounding areas are a great way to keep those magical and sweet memories from fading away. Check out the entire collection here, or find the individual colors on the shop page.
About the article author: Alison Rose is a historian specializing in Austrian Jewish history and a freelance writer. She is the author of two books and enjoys traveling and spending time with her family. She lives in Columbus, Ohio.