Following in the footsteps of bags, shoes, and haircuts, a great manicure is the newest fashion status symbol. Endlessly customizable, your nails can show the world who you are, what you like, and where you're going. Besting ‘it’ accessories or a whole new ‘do, however, a polish change is easy and commitment-free. And, really, how can you beat a mini-makeover that comes complete with a half hour of gossip with your best girlfriends? We headed over to the fabulous Nailicious (3410 Oak Lawn Ave., Dallas) to test drive some of the top nail trends for Fall 2013. Below are our five favorite, statement-making manicures, plus a note on selecting your perfect shape.  

The Shape

Almond shaped nails are a current designer runway favorite that elongates the fingers. Want something a little more fierce? Go with the pointed talon nail, also hot this fall. For shorter nails, or those undecided on the shape question, we also learned a handy tip at Nailicious. Shape the end of your nail to mirror your nail bed. In other words, stick to round nails if you have circular beds, and square if you have straight beds.  

The Looks

    Matte Metallics: A matte metallic polish will be a must-wear look this fall. Pair these low-maintenance shades with a matte top coat, and revel in how easy your edgy, high fashion look was to achieve. Recommended: Revlon Brilliant Strength Nail Enamel in Beguile; Essie’s Penny Talk     Glitter Galore: Glitter manicures can either scream fun or extremely tacky. It's important to know the distinction, and how best to wear a glitter polish. We recommend sticking to a glitter look that comes in a single color, whether metallic or holographic. Layer them over a matching polish shade to add some punch. Recommended: Essie's Silver Bullions from the Lauren Conrad Collection     In The Nude: The nude nail trend in still in full swing. Spotted on fall runways, Celine chose a bare nail and Narcisco Rodriguez went with taupe. But if the all-natural look is just a little too safe for your taste, add a half moon in a contrasting color such as deep scarlet or black. Recommended: Deborah Lippmann Nail Laquer in Fashion; OPI Nail Laquer in Did You Ear About Van Gogh?     Textured Talons: The Punk Trend is enjoying a resurgence. Sand or sugar polishes are an awesome way to add some punk attitude to a simple manicure. Even better, there’s no need for a top coat with these textured products. Just swipe them on and you're done! Recommended: Sally Hansen Sugar Coat in Lick-o-Rich or Sugar Fix     Sexy Studs: Finally, why not dress up your standard manicure with a nail embellishment? We did (shown above). Triangular studs in gold, brass, silver, and gunmetal are easy to apply. Buy them in bulk for a few dollars via Amazon, and bring them along on your next trip to the salon. Recommended: Essie's Really Red and Metallic Nail Studs     Reporting contributed by Heather Lettieri.  Image credits, from top: 1. DFW Style Daily, 2. Essie.com, 3. Best Nail Art Designs.com, 4. Essie.com, 5. Tumblr.com, 6. DFW Style Daily.