By now, your feet should be enjoying a few brief weeks of glory in the sun. Overworked, unloved and concealed for most of the year, this is their moment in the (lime) light. So how to preen them to their full potential?

The laws that apply to fingernails don't always extend below. Kate Moss may have scrubbed up recently with matching fire-red polish on toes and fingers, but it's not that easy for the rest of us. While French manicures are de rigueur for hands, they're far too subtle for feet. Neons haven't crossed the line, either, although red - thanks to Moss - is permitted. Pink, pale or shocking, is popular, as is white, bright and pristine. Which, inevitably, means the rest of the foot must look immaculate, too. This involves a weekly scrub - as abrasive as you can bear, and banishing unsightly skin with a footfile before reaching for your nail scissors. Next, sculpt to perfection: cut each nail straight across, then file smooth and curve at edges. Apply a base to fill ridges.

A sweat, I know - but worth it to work those Primark flip-flops.