Generally, after un certain age, neutral shades and pale shimmers flatter hands the best.  (We tend to save bright fluoros, denim blues and Rouge Noir-type polishes for feet, where we think it's absolutely fine to go for more daring shades.  Shows you've got your finger - er, toe - on fashion's pulse...) In Maybelline's spring nail collection we happened upon this very pale baby pink (reminiscent of some of Essie's classic pinks).  Not only is it a complete steal, but it's enriched with iron and calcium for treatment benefits over time.

What we love best about the Maybelline Forever Strong Pro range, however, is its lasting qualities:  Jo once painted her nails with a polish from this range before a major move, and it survived - with flying colours.  They promise it 'lasts up to 7 days' - and in our experience, that's just about right.  (Though a house move is going to challenge any polish.)

As always, do apply a base coat to prevent yellowing, but with this a topcoat really isn't required unless you want extra depth of shine.

A truly ageless 'neutral' - not just for spring, but year-round.

UK readers find Maybelline Forever Strong Pro (Porcelain Pink)/£4.09 at www.superdrug.com - click here (apologies to US readers:  not available there...)