Hanging out backstage at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week (we're shameless, aren't we?), we spent hours marveling at models getting primped and primed for the runways, from their heads right down to their gorgeous toes (and fingers, of course). No nail was left bare, and we loved the bold, unexpected trends we found. Our favorites: At the Tracy Reese show, models rocked Sally Hansen’s new Hi-Definition Line in smoky grey "Opulent Cloud" ($4.50 at drugstores). We love this look because it's neutral enough for work, but can up the ante on your weekend wear, too. Meanwhile, Gwen Stefani and her L.A.M.B. models paired opaque white, "NYC Fleet Week" from Dashing Diva ($8) on their fingers with a special red mix of red—"The Red Carpet" and "A New York Slice"—on their toes. This combo is night-out necessary. And at Charlotte Ronson, models went au naturale, boasting tawny Creme Brulee polish from Milani ($4.50)—a very appropriate professional look. Whether grey, white, nude or orange-y red, the only rule is that you rock that shade n-o-w!

-Kellene McCaffrey