Nailing it!

Your hands are one of the first things that people notice when interacting with you. This is reason enough to make sure that your hands and nails are always presentable. Although people have always cared about manicures and pedicures, it seems that nails have now firmly taken their spot in fashion and serve not only as a matter of grooming, but also an expression of personal style. There are as many nail trends out there as there are fashion trends. Here is a quick guide to help you navigate:

Nail Shape: Square, rounded or oval
Square has been the prominent shape for quite some time now for both long and short nails. The shape has a bit of a masculine edge to it and structurally is the strongest shape for the nail.  This shape can be viewed as "neat and classic", but is merely a matter of opinion.  It is undeniably the most popular shape of nails at this time.

There is something very feminine about the rounded nail.  Whether long or short, it gives the illusion of an elongated nail bed and daintier fingers. This shape is certainly beginning to give the square shape competition and is in the midst of resurgence.  The oval, which is an exaggerated round is easier to adapt for the avant garde.    The long and pointy are called stiletto nails.  The look can take the vampy route when painted with darker colors or can be softened by lighter lacquer choices.

Nail Color:  From Nudes to Brights
Nude is simple and universal but most of all safe. Why not shake it up with a wide spectrum of color choices.  Whether it be the soft and trendy pastels to the bold and beautiful vibrant bright.  Live a little and be adventurous from time to time.

Prints and Designs

The old adage of less is more has now been converted to more is more....and better! Whether there it is vintage floral nail prints inspired by the Vivian Westwood models coming down the runway or eye popping 3-d designs jumping off the nails of pop stars,  there is no denying the impact that these designs have made.  It is not uncommon at all now to see these designs on the masses.  Many of these options are certainly not your most professional or practical of choices and certainly can be quite pricey.  However, if you are in a creative field, a younger girl or just determined and young at heart, this could be a fun option.

Check out my Pinterst board on "Nailing It!" and get inspired.

Let Me Count The Ways......

Previously, I had managed to resist the urge to gush with envy about the style that the First Lady has displayed...but I can no longer help myself. There have been many comparisons to the late great Jackie O., however I'd like to think that she is just Michelle O. and that is clearly more than enough.

So far, we have yet to see her looking sub par. She has proven to be impeccably dressed at every official event , but I think her personal style can best be seen in more casual ensembles. Her effortless grace truly shines through when she is out and about with the children or volunteering at a school. The First Lady's relaxed look usually consists of quintessential American sportswear at its best, coupled with a smart flat.

One of my favorite looks was worn a few weeks ago at the beginning of May to a poety slam that was hosted by the Obamas at the White House. Michelle appropriately brought boho-chic to the stage with simple capri's and a show-stopping blouse. The blouse was designed by the Brazilian-British design team of Basso&Bruno for their Spring 2009 RTW collection. While their line has only been in existence for a few years, they are known for their bold graphic and prints.

Michelle's choices have expertly introduced her to us as a woman whose taste lives somewhere between conservative, whimsical and bold.....what a super combination! Oh how I love thee.