The all-time classic favorite of all nail styles, the French manicure has a neutral look -- its nude pink base and white tips make nails look clean and healthy. With a little practice and patience, you can achieve salon-perfect nails at home.

What you'll need:

• 1 white polish
• 1 sheer pink or nude polish
• 1 clear base coat
• 1 clear topcoat
• sticky nail guides (optional)
• nail polish remover
• nail clipper
• nail file
• cuticle pusher (optional)

Prepping your nails

1. Remove any existing old nail polish on the nails with a cotton pad and nail polish remover. Choose a nail polish remover that's gentle, and at the same time conditions and strengthens the nails.
   
   
2. Wash your hands and soak in warm water for a few minutes until the cuticles and skin have been softened.
   
   
3. Using a cuticle pusher (either orangewood or metal), gently push back the cuticles so they are all even.
   
   
4. Trim your nails to the desired length and shape with nail clippers and a nail file.