DIY MANICURE

File your nails, remembering that to get the smoothest, fray-free finish you should file from the side of your nail to the center in one direction, lifting the file away from the nail, and returning to the starting point where your skin and nail connect. Repeat this until you've achieve your desired shape. 

Moisturise those cuticles! Anything oily will do - even cooking oil! Once softened, gently push back to create a neat nail bed. You can do this using the usual tool of coice - an orange stick - or if you don't have one of these, a lolly stick is a good substitute.

Wipe the nail bed clean using a little nail varnish remover.

Apply base coat.

It might take you some extra time, but base coat gives the colored polish something to adhere to, making your manicure last a couple of extra days longer. It also prevents staining on your nails from pigmented paint.

Apply two coats of colour - why not go for something bright and cheerful to suit the beautiful spring weather and lift your spirits? Remember: less is more! Each coat probably only requires three strokes to cover the whole nail. It's best to leave 2 minutes between each coat - base, varnish and finally top coat.

Applying a top coat is the easiest way to avoid chips. Apply gently and slowly, taking it right to the tip of your nail for maximum protection.

Leave to dry for up to an hour, and voilà!