While last year we were talking about “Mannequin Hands” and matching our polish exactly to our skin tone, CND has created a neutral hue to complement, rather than match, the majority of flesh tones.  While I was in Chicago for America’s Beauty Show I got a better idea of the concept behind this look at CND’s Fashion Fusion presentation.

While everyone was buzzing about the Sephora by OPI Glee collection, the more low-key Urban Ballerina collection quietly came on the scene. Given the hype surrounding Black Swan, I’m amazed that the collection didn’t get more lip service.

As a little girl I was always obsessed with dance and dance movies, watching films like Fame and Flashdance way before I was old enough to see them. I even took ballet lessons for a hot second before admitting that I lacked the natural talent and coordination required.

Now even though I’m known for my love of bold nail color, I have moments where I want a more subdued feminine look so I took Sephora by OPI Let’s Plié for a spin on the dance floor.

It’s always been part of my life plan to have a boat of my own to enjoy everything Lake Erie has to offer. The Lake Erie islands, the Sandusky Bay area, it’s all so beautiful and fun. This spring my dream of summering on a boat just may come true. The boyfriend and I are signing up for a safe boating course and starting to shop for our own floating home away from home which has me on an all things nautical high.

I’ve been shopping for new deck shoes, conjuring up boat names, contemplating the boat themed manicures I’ll wear, etc. And after seeing a mani/pedi combo using the navy and orange cremes from this collection, I already know what is going on my nails first.  But before we get into the bold Knotty Nauticals let’s take a look at the softer side of the Anchors Away collection, the Sand & Sea six piece set.

The butter LONDON Fall 2010 Collection polishes All Hail McQueen and Bumster are both nods to the designer.  Marrow is Nonie’s second collaboration with the designers behind Vena Cava and Victoriana is a faded blue inspired by vintage British fabrics.

What an unexpected twist to add such bright pops of color to the palette.  I suppose they are the rebels in the group.  Though what I like about this collection as a whole is that even though the majority of the shades are neutrals, they are what I’d call “new neutrals.”  They have an updated feel to them.  See what I mean after the jump!