The nail files

Nail polish has become a statement and fashion accessory that can perfect an outfit. Unlike other “it” accessories — like a seasonʼs must-have bag or shoe — the big trend in nails is that there is no big trend. Almost anything goes. For this season, Iʼve brought together the most popular shades and my favourite picks for each.

Red

When in doubt, opt for red. Red is always the go-to colour that can make a statement with any outfit, while still keeping your look classy. This colour is bright enough to pull off in the winter, but still looks rich and decadent which will compliment any style. For a brighter red, I suggest OPIʼs Big Apple Red ($10). This is the perfect shade that can be worn in any season. For a darker shade, I suggest OPIʼs Got the Blues for Red ($10).

Nude

When you feel like something more simple, a bare nail colour like a nude is the choice. As opposed to barely there nudes, I prefer shades of cappuccino, taupe and sheer pinks. They flatter every skin tone and easily go with all outfits. One of my favourite nudes is a light pink. My top pick is Essieʼs Muchi, Muchi ($8) or for a more taupe hue, try OPIʼs Tickle My France-y ($10).

Metallic

If you feel like living on the edge, try pulling off a metallic nail colour. Next time youʼre choosing a colour to pair with your Saturday night outfit, try Chanelʼs new hit of the season Peridot ($25). This is my favorite colour for winter right now; it’s a holographic multi¬dimensional gold with hints of green. The colour is so unique and different, it will draw eyes from all directions.

Dark

Dark shades are always on trend for the cooler months. Dark polish, whether itʼs purple, red, maroon or even black, makes your hands look chic and gives a sense of elegance.I absolutely adore dark nails, and they work perfect with any outfit. A basic dark colour is always a winner. My favourite pick is OPIʼs Lincoln Park After Dark ($10), which is a dark purple hue. Another shade is OPIʼs Russian Navy ($10), which is a dark blue with a hint of shimmer.

Sparkle

New Year’s may have past, but glitter nail polish is still in season. If your looking for the perfect glitter nail polish shade, I suggest OPIʼs Glitzerland ($10). Itʼs the perfect combination of glitter and metallic and itʼs not too over-the-top. The celebrity manicurist designer Deborah Lippmann is well-known for her sparklicious colours. My favourite picks from her collections are Across the Universe and Candy Shop (both $22). With these colours you get the chicness of a colour polish with the pizazz of the glitter. Its a genius combination!

Nail Art

Between assignments, midterms and exams, it’s hard to find time to paint your nails and waiting for them to dry is almost as painful knowing you have a 15 page report due the next morning. But there’s a solution. Sally Hansen Salon Effects Real Nail Polish Strips ($10) are stick-on nail appliques that are made with real nail polish and are supposed to look like they were painted onto you nails. They come in 24 different patterns and designs, they are easy to put on and they need no drying time. They are a great way to achieve gorgeous, unique nails without much effort. If you think that these designs are too much on all your nails, I like to apply them on one finger (usually my ring finger) and then paint the remaining of my nails a colour that coordinates.

Top Coat

The secret to finishing off your manicure is choosing the right top coat. After being a nail fanatic for many years, Iʼve finally found the best top coat out there. Seche Vite TopCoat ($13) is a gel-like formula that promises dry nails in a snap, with a high-gloss shine and lasts chip-free for over a week. This top coat makes your nails super shiny and the high gloss look is a must for any nail colour your wearing.