Your nails are some of your most versatile accessories, and you can't go anywhere without them. Luckily, with just a few strokes of a brush, you can completely transform your look. So whether you prefer your nails healthy and natural, or bold and glamorous, the tools for getting a perfectly polished look are right at your fingertips.
Navy Blue Polish
This trend premiered on models at the Chanel Spring 2008 Ready To Wear runway show, and ever since then, bottles have been flying off store shelves. Even though Chanel's online store and several other retailers have already sold out of the navy blue polish, there are still some less expensive versions in stores.
Splurge: OPI Nail Polish in Russian Navy ($7.32, opidiva.com) is strong, durable and shiny.
Save: Wet N' Wild Wild Shine in sapphire blue (99 cents, drugstores) is super-cheap and super-shimmery.
Fast Drying Polish
For girls on the go, tacky nail polish can spell disaster. These quick-drying formulas have nails looking salon-perfect in seconds.
Splurge: L'Oreal Paris Jet-Set Diamant Nail Enamel in Las Vegas ($10.95, drugstores) takes only 30 seconds to dry and stays shiny for days.
Save: Rimmel London Play Fast Quick Dry Nail Polish in punch ($3.69, Ulta) dries in seconds and its fresh, fruity color will brighten up the dreary winter atmosphere.
Strengthening Topcoat
Daily wear and tear on your nails can mean chipping and breakage. For extra shine and protection, use a strengthening topcoat every time you paint your nails.
Splurge: OPI Natural Nail Strengthener ($10.50, opidiva.com) adds layers of protection for healthy nails.
Save: Sally Hansen Thicken Up! Strengthening Nail Thickener ($2.99, drugstores) protects against color fading and adds strength to weak nails.
French Manicure Kit
The French manicure is a classic and clean look that can be hard to do yourself. These kits make at-home manicures a snap.
Splurge: The Orly French Manicure Kit ($7.49, folica.com) comes with white and pink-colored polishes, as well as base and topcoats.
Save: Sally Hansen French Manicure Kit ($4.46, drugstores) comes with stick-on painting guides for foolproof white nail tips.
Press-On Nail Polish
This new phenomenon is the quickest innovation in nail care yet. These sticker-like strips easily press onto nails and last for up to two weeks. Available in a variety of colors, Avon's new advancement in nail art means instant results.
Must Buy: Avon Instant Manicure Dry Nail Enamel Strips ($8, avon.com) also wipe off easily with nail polish remover.



