i prefer french manicure on my toes....i use OPI nailpolish. i got a set from the clearance sale about 2 years ago at ULTA. i have to say it's all in the brush - i bought "cheap" brushed from beauty stores (including Sally's) and they never worked. my friend's mom is a manicurist, so she got me a "professional brush" that cost $8 - the same as the "cheap" brushes. it's soooooo great. my french tips turns out nearly perfect.
i use toothpicks to design flowers on the big toes, too. i did my toes for my graduation - my friends were pretty impressed - they thought i went and had it professionally done.
i also use nailtique polish to strengthen my nails.