Susan Martin From the Home Front

Time to get those fingernails in shape. The Los Angeles Times reports that "fingernails have replaced the statement necklace, earrings and 'it' bag as the accessory du jour."
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"Whether it's a striped metallic or textural 'deconstructed' look, the trends in bold nail color and design take a cue directly from designer runways," notes fashion writer Melissa Magsaysay.

She interviewed Jan Arnold, co-founder of Creative Nail Design, a California company that worked on 103 runway shows during the fall collections.

One look created for the models at the Thakoon fashion show: a 1940s-inspired style where an ink black color is put on the moon of the nail against an opaque nude putty color.

Richly lacquered 1930s-style nails; earthy shades on almond-shaped nails (elongates the fingers) and jewel tones (nice for holiday) were other trends, as were marbleized effects.

   "Custom nails are a huge trend now, because customization lets people bring out their creativity and personality," Arnold told the Times.