- Blue Belles
Blue Belles
Navy blue had its moment last season--this time around it's all about pastel. Dreamy, robin's egg hues are the perfect way to welcome spring. Afraid of looking too prim with a pastel nail? Keep your nails short and natural to avoid a tea time vibe.
- The New Nude
The New Nude
Nude, naked, buff--whatever you call it, the bare nail look is in for Spring 2011. We saw glossy, creamy, flesh-colored nails on practically every model backstage. That's because it's a chic way to lighten up your digits after winter's dark and moody shades. Just make sure you choose a nude with warm undertones, otherwise you'll look like you have mannequin hands.
- Hot For Honeysuckle
Hot For Honeysuckle
Pantone named Honeysuckle, a bright, vibrant pink, as the color of the year. We've seen it in just about every incarnation, but our favorite way to wear this hot color has to be this cool new polish. It features a "sorbet" formula that gives nails a glossed, icy finish that's the perfect accessory for your light and airy spring wardrobe.
- Art School
Art School
From polka dots to cheetah prints--nail art was all over the runways this season. If you don't consider yourself the Van Gogh of manicures, or you just lack a steady hand, check out these cool stick-on polish strips from Sally Hansen. They're nail polish--not decals or stickers--so they look totally real. Just peel off, stick on your nail and file them down to the right size and shape. Instant art!
Sally Hansen Salon Effects Nail Polish Strips, $9.99, ulta.com
- Pumped-Up Purple
Pumped-Up Purple
Purple is a surprisingly versatile color. We saw it in creamy, glossy, muted and vibrant versions on the runway--each look was more amazing than the last. That's because purple is one of the most skin tone-flattering shades around. We especially like this uniquely gorgeous lacquer; it walks the line between pastel and bright.
- Such A Peach!
Such A Peach!
Hate neon-bright polish but don't want to wear another boring nude nail color? Give peach a whirl! This delicate, ladylike shade adds a beautiful sheen to nails that subtly complements all skin tones, but doesn't look washed out.
- Bright On
Bright On
This gorgeous, bright blue hue is the perfect antidote to grey, slushy winter days. One coat of this vibrant varnish on your fingers and toes and you'll be dreaming of a relaxing day at the beach.
Estée Lauder Pure Colour Nail Lacquer in Wild Blue, $19, nordstrom.com
- Sunny Days
Sunny Days
What better way to welcome warmer weather than with a bright, happy color like yellow on your nails? This glittery enamel reminds us of sunshine and marshmallow Peeps--two of our very favorite things about spring!
Love It? Buy It! Paul & Joe Beauté Nail Enamel in Sunshine, $14, b-glowing.com
- Girl With A Pearl
Girl With A Pearl
Move over metallics--pearl is this season's hottest finish. Pearlescent polishes made a huge runway comeback for spring. Glam up your nails with this gorgeous platinum polish, which manages to appear both classic and cutting edge.
Dolce & Gabbana Intense Nail Lacquer in Platinum, $20, saksfifthavenue.com
- Green Goddess
Green Goddess
As a polish choice, green has gotten a bad rap. Relegated to St. Patrick's Day and Shrek Halloween costumes, the earthy shade has never been considered high fashion--until now. This metallic, golden-green hue is sophisticated, modern and definitely worthy of being worn year-round.
