A surprising 82% of Self.com readers would wear a trendy snakeskin mani, according to the January 2012 issue of Self Magazine. To fake the snake, use these tips from Renee Valenti of Lali Lali salon in NYC:

Paint: On your client's left hand, apply a light metallic gold as a base, then let nails dry for four minutes; you want them to feel a bit tacky.

Wrap a piece of mesh (like the kind basketball shorts are made from) around each nail. This mesh can be found in any fabric store. Tape it in place, anchoring it to the pads of your client's fingers.

Peel: Brush a deep navy or brown hue over the mesh, and let it dry for about one minute. Gently peel back the fabric, and repeat with fresh fabric on the other hand, Make sure to skip a top coat so you don't smudge.

Self Magazine recommends CND's Gold Shimmer for the ideal snaky effect.