Seriously, where can a woman have more artistic expression on her body than on her nails? (And we're talking easily changeable art here, as opposed to that possibly regrettable ankle tattoo you're considering.)
Your fingers and toes are the perfect palette on which to show off a bold expression of your personality. And forget just choosing between "Corvette Crimson" and "Saucy Scarlet" (the jig is up—they're both red). Your options for 2011 have far surpassed that limited palette. Consider these options instead:
Trend: A Shattering Success
Breaking on to the scene in 2011, quite literally, is OPI Black Shatter (found only in stores). This topcoat can be applied over any color to
create a "shattered" effect. Even Katy Perry has jumped on the Shatter
bandwagon, designing four shades (including "Teenage Dream," of course)
to wear with Black Shatter. Also look for Serena Williams' Glam Slam
duo-pack that comes with a radiant, shimmering green and the Black
Shatter to apply on top.
Trend: To the Moon
The newest in mani-styles is actually a retro look with the return of eye-catching moon manicures. Start with a nude base (try ULTA Professional Nail Lacquer in It's Nude to Me) and then use a darker shade to make half-crescent moon shapes at the top and base of each nail. Try OPI Nicole Nail Lacquer in Razzle Dazzle for your moons, or, if your hand isn't quite steady enough for a brush, use Sally Hansen Nail Art Pen in black for more controlled moon-making.
Trend: Steel the Show
The cool, dark shade of metal translates in a sexy way when applied to
nails. This gunmetal gray can work for any age, day or night. Consider
it the LBD of your nails (that's little black dress, if not familiar).
Try China Glaze Nail Lacquer in Devotion or Nicole by OPI Nail Lacquer in Give Me the First Dance (a color that, believe it or not, Justin Bieber designed for Nicole by OPI).
Trend: Nearly Naked Nails
OK, so maybe you're still on the fence about going in one of these
slightly bolder directions with your nails. Fear not, the last trend
for 2011 is a complete 180 from the above. We're talking super-light
pastel pinks and peaches, like Butter London Pink Ribbon,
a subtle hue that gives nails a clean, classy look, perfect for a
romantic picnic in a field of sunflowers, but sexy enough to pair with
a cocktail dress and a dirty martini. Just don't choose a shade that's
exactly matchy matchy with your skin tone, lest people think you have
no nails at all.