How I Make My Manicure Last

Anyone who has ever put a coat of paint on their walls knows what a big difference it can make. The same is true of applying nail polish. My theory is that a weekly manicure pulls your look together -- and keeps your hands soft and your nails in good condition. Whether you're shelling out money for a professional job or you're a do-it-yourself kind of girl, you want it to last. Here are my tips for getting polish to stay in place for a full seven days.

Step 1: Clean the nail bed. Always wipe your nails with nail polish remover when you're finished filing. If there is any residue on your nails, it will keep polish from sticking and causing chips.
Step 2: Apply a base coat. This is a must because it works like double-stick tape and helps your polish stick. (Psst ... I've also found it keeps your nails from yellowing.)
Step 3: Go light. Paint two light coats of polish. Thicker coats chip more quickly, so you're better off going with a couple very thin layers.
Step 4: Paint the underside of your nails. Make sure to polish the very tip of your nails, angling the brush slightly underneath.
Step 5: Finish it off with a good top coat. This works like an outer shell to prevent chips and cracks.
Step 6: Keep nails hydrated. You don't need a fancy "nail hydrator" to keep your nails moisturized. Just use your regular moisturizer at night and rub it into your nails and cuticles. The drier your nails, the more likely they are to crack.

Now that you know how to keep your nail polish in place, what about learning about which colors are hot for fall? No matter where you live -- whether it's a warm climate or chilly New York City -- fall is a great time to switch up your polish and go with the trendier shades of the season.

This year, it's about rich, classic shades -- think your favorite brown or green leather bag. The "ladylike" look is also in style, so seek out pearly pinks and soft grays.

For some colder weather beauty tricks, click here.