Parlour Theno: Fall 2012 Couture influenced nail art

Now that nail art is seen as an acceptable and fashionable form of artistic expression (it seems to have almost completely stripped itself of its formerly tacky connotations: crazy aunts, ghetto mamis, guidettes, white trash vixens, etcetera), it seems as though everything has potential to inspire a 10-finger masterpiece, from sunsets to Disney movies to Andy Warhol's artwork, and there is no shortage of people ready and willing to create tiny works of art, using their hands (and feet) as their tableaus.

From Flickr, to blogs, to YouTube uploads, the internet is a goldmine that showcases the talented individuals that are taking nail art to an elevated platform.
My favorite nail blog is The Daily Nail, as my mind is blown every single time I read a new post. The blogger decided to, in October 2010, dedicate every day to a new manicure. This reminds me of Julie Powell's culinary journey a la "Julie and Julia". The author (and amazing artist) is inspired by a range of interests that translate into some very, very cool manicures. From movies to books, songs, food, characters, culture, etcetera, every bit of pop culture is represented. My favorites manicures of hers include sixties-inspired "In the 'Mod'", the Smurfs "Blast from the Past", Dr. Seuss "Dr. Seussical" - plus many more.

Should you now have the itch to do some more nail art exploring, here are a few links to get you started on your search:

1. Hey, Nice Nails!

2. Pretty in Polish

3. Chalkboard Nails

4. Cute Polish

5. Pixie Polish

Everyone draws inspiration from somewhere for nail art. My inspiration comes from the Fall 2012 couture shows. With hundreds of glorious, custom-made pieces brimming with ornate, one-of-a-kind details, the treasure trove of outfits from couture week would give me more than enough fodder to do a few manicures. Following are some of the looks that are begging to be recreated via nail art. (Gown photos c/o nymag.com)

1. Christian Dior's electric green ballgown