Often, the look that is the most chic is the most simple. And that's especially true of nails. If you think you need polish to make your nails look great, think again. Well-groomed nails with just a touch of buffing are every bit as elegant as Chanel red. Ask nail expert Deborah Lippmann, who gave Renée Zellweger this buffed manicure for the Oscars.

Step 1: Start with a four-sided buffer
Begin your manicure with a four-sided buffer to ensure a smooth and high-shine finish. Lippmann's buffer of choice is the Smooth Operator from her line, the Lippmann Collection. Start with the side labeled #1 to shape the tip of your nail. Then, with sides #2 and #3, gently dust the top of your nail. This will smooth your nails. Finish by dusting with side #4 for a high gloss.

Step 2: Take control of your cuticles
Use a liquid cuticle remover and liberally apply it anywhere the nail touches the skin. Proceed by pushing down cuticles with an orange stick or cuticle pusher. (Deborah likes the cuticle pusher from Mehaz.) To push the cuticle back and remove the dead skin, push the tool across the nail two or three times, then wipe the nail with a ball of cotton.