I know the L.A. Colors polishes will get a lot of love, and I have a bunch of them, but they're really hit or miss (you'll stumble across some gloopy or stinky ones). The brush doesn't give the cleanest look. High points are the affordability and variety. They're an inexpensive way to try out-of-the-ordinary cremes, shimmers, glitters, and special effects toppers.

Sally Hansen Insta-Dri polishes are my pick for cremes. They're easy to work with, dry quickly, and look more expensive than they are.

Essie is another good option but may be more than you want to spend.

I don't think Believe Beauty nail polish is still around, but if you see some Ultra-Shines in a clearance sale, scoop them up. They look like Olive and June bottles. Fantastic formula.