Galaxy-style gradient on Alexandria Von Bromssen's model, Ya.

Paint splatter nails for Domm Streater's model Rayuana.

Shiny white graced model Ji's nails to complete Justin LeBlanc's look.

Nail art against a white background contributed to Bradon McDonald's winning look.

Vibrant ombre outlined in black brought Helen Castillo's vision of a monarch butterfly to life.

We love celebrity nail tech Tom Bachik. Not only has he done some amazing covers for us, but his red carpet nail art sets the bar for seasons to come. Having done the nails of Heidi Klum (Project Runway host) and Emmy Rossum (Project Runway guest judge) before, it's no surprise he was the nail tech to make a fashionable debut on last night's episode.
Titled "The Butterfly Effect," last night's installment was the official L'Oreal challenge featuring makeup consultations with Billy B. and nail consultations with Bachik.

Nail consultations usually aren't a part of what airs on the show. While every now and then I will notice a cool color on a model's nails that the designer must have picked, it was nice to get the spotlight on the actual nails and allow the designers to choose bold nail art to complete their avant-garde looks. It was even cooler to hear the judge's opinions on the nail choices. Creative director of Marie Claire, Nina Garcia, favored the white nails on Justin LeBlanc's model and Klum liked  the ombre look on Helen Castillo's model. Do you agree with the judges? Which nail look was your favorite? Watch the full episode here.

Photos courtesy of L'Oreal.