A French pedicure is a neutral option that makes almost any foot look good

If your toenails are not your best feature, opt for clear, pearlized or pale-coloured nail varnish so as not to draw too much attention to them.

1. Follow the basic steps for a pedicure until you have applied a basecoat.

2. Apply white polish to the nail tip by starting at one side and sweeping across the nail in a single, steady movement. Keep the strip as narrow as possible. Repeat for all the nails.

3. Apply sheer pink, natural or peach polish over the entire nail, painting a strip of colour down the centre of the nail, then overlapping with a strip on either side, but avoiding the cuticles. Leave to dry thoroughly before applying a second coat.

4. Apply a clear topcoat to seal in colour. Leave to dry for as long as possible before putting on your shoes - at least an hour, as socks or tights can leave unsightly imprints if you rush the drying stage.

Taken from A Complete Guide to Manicure & Pedicure by Leigh Toselli, published by New Holland Publishers priced £11.99