Did you ever sit at the back of the class, put Tipp-Ex on a nail or two, and decide it looked pretty much like the nail varnish you weren't allowed to wear (especially when you jazzed it up with, say, fluorescent highlighter on top)? Come on, admit it - I know for a fact that I'm not on my own on this one. Anyway, ever since I've been wary of white nail varnish, or any other colour that might be confused with my lame attempts at rebellion. Well, in among this season's deep purples, browns and reds, there is one surprising alternative when it comes to nail colour - but you'll have to get over any Liquid Paper-related issues first: white nail varnish is big news.

So how do you avoid it looking like Tipp-Ex? "The secret to great whites is gradual build-up," says Angela Lenci, owner of the achingly cool, New York-inspired hair and beauty salon, The Parlour. "Paint once, leave to dry, wash your hands and apply again."

Those with really nice hands can try more pearly whites, but matt is a more modern look, and looks great on short, neat nails - which, incidentally are the only way to go this season. Alaska and Perfect White, both from Rimmel, are great introductory whites. They're slightly creamy, too, which should allay any Tipp-Ex fears. Mavala has one of the best colour ranges - try either White (49), Geneve (22) or Reno (91). All are very different whites: the first is very cold, the second slightly pearly and Reno, my favourite, is a lovely, soft cream that looks great on dark hands.

The real downside of white is that it doesn't hide as much as other shades. With that in mind, it's important to look after your nails. "Nails need plenty of hydration, so make sure you drink lots of water," advises Lenci. "Moisturise your nails and cuticles every time you wash your hands. Apply a thin coat of strengthener twice a week, ideally to bare nails." For an intensive treatment, massage nail oil or baby oil into the cuticle beds, followed by a rich hand cream, and wear gloves overnight. Your hands will thank you for it in the morning.