Deep, dark and edgy purple nail polish is the new it colour for Winter. It's the star shade of the brand-new Chanel Bohemian Fantasy collection (more on this later), it's the most vibrant varnish from Essie's Her Royal Hotness range, and Nails Inc. has named this newbie Dover Street Market, after a chic and hip Mayfair shop.

The best part about these purples is that they pack a lot of punch. They aren't safe, wine-coloured burgundies or vampy blood-reds from year's of goth [1] past. These purples are powerful! Hail the rocker chick in you for the naughtiest new nail trend.

• Vendetta from Chanel [2] (£15) is actually a part of the Spring 2009 collection, but it's set for a January launch (perfect for winter-time nails). Take my word when I say that this is going to be the end all be all of nail varnishes. Don't believe me? The gals at Chanel HQ have to share a bottle since the press caught wind of its release. If they can't even keep samples in stock, my bet is that it will be flying off the shelves once it hits stores!

To read more about Dover Street Market and Sexy Divide, .



• Dover Street Market from Nails Inc. [3] (£10.25) is the brightest of the bunch. This sleep, shiny purple polish is a perfect way to add a little sass to your hands and feet. I've tried and what I love most is that it dries quickly and dries to a true purple.
• Sexy Divide from Essie [4] (£8.50) is nothing short of electric. The shade has been categorized as a violet varnish that contains a little bit of shimmer with a lot of impact. Will you dare to wear purple nails this season?