We love ogling other people's mad DIY nail art skills (thanks, Pinterest!), but our ambidexterity is not nearly at that level. So for all you beginner nail art admirers, here are nine ways to play with your digits - no skills required.
This limited edition collection of dual-ended polish sets ($7.99) give you everything you need to create a galactic effect. Use the creamy dark shade as a base, and then finish off with the holographic top coat. Better hit your nearest drugstore, since they're only available while supplies last!
From Louis Vuitton's recent collaboration with Yayoi Kusama to Kate Spade's spotted prints, polka dots are an easy way to keep your nails on trend. Use a bobby pin, toothpick, pencil tip or even a paperclip and just dip in polish and dab all over your nails. Forget precision and go for a whimsical look like the manicures we "spotted" at Kate Spade's Fall 2012 Presentation.
Decorating your nails with stickers is now acceptable for adults. There are all types of designs and motifs that you can add to your regular mani for an eye-catching look. We love the selection at Sephora, and they're only $5 per sheet!
Dress up your fingertips with this manicure set ($19) that allows you to brush on a layer of crushed velvet. The ultra luxe finish looks just as good as it feels.
If you have five different shades of any one color, good for you! If not, you can nab this affordable set of five polishes ($22) to create the perfect ombre nails.
This is not your average top coat, by any means. You can literally gild your favorite polish with this top coat ($30) infused with real flakes of 18K gold.
The science of magnets create this nail art like magic. Just paint the polish as you would ordinary nail lacquer, and then hold the magnetic design over your nails for a metallic nail art effect. With brands like Sally Hansen ($8.99), Deborah Lippmann ($36 for a set of two), Color Club ($12) and Nails Inc. ($16) getting in on the trend, you can find the right price, color and design for you.
These "shattering" polishes make textured nail art a cinch. Just apply a thin layer over a dry complementing base color, and viola! Instant nail art. We're loving everything from the original OPI Shatter ($8.50) to the new Maybelline Shredded Collection ($3.99 each), which has a crocodile-like finish.
Remember sponge painting as a kid? Well take those childhood skills and apply them to your next manicure. Rip the nearest (clean) sponge - kitchen sink, makeup bag, or even a sponge applicator in your eyeshadow - and dip into your polish and dab on to create an easy ombre look on your nails.
