I can't make my mind up whether I think they look cheap or what ... what do you think?

depends on how long the nails are. If they not too long (i.e. they don't resemble corn chips) then they're okay. I'm not sure i like them for the summer though....

On some women they look fantastic.

I spent £55 on having one a couple of months ago and it looked bloody awful. (Give me a Vamp red any day):)

I paint my nails fire engine red

Mine are red right now because it's a F1 weekend and I follow Schumacher. I usually just wear whatever colour goes best with my outfit.
I find French manicures are too much of a hassle, not that I could have one now as my nails tend to break more readily than when I was younger.

I go for clear nailpolish. Its low maintenance and goes with every outfit...

French manicure can be nice as long as the person with them isn't over dressed, otherwise they can look a bit jordan-ish. As SIV said, it depends on the length, and also whether they are a bit rounded or really rectangular at the top.
If the white is too white, they can look a bit harsh I reckon. Plus they are a lot of maintenance.

I wish I could grow long nails, but because of job etc, tis impossible :(

They can look great but also look crappy, guess it depends on the person doing it. I've tried to french manicure my nails but it always ended up looking horrible. It seems like a lot of work for no longer than it lasts.

i don't wear them anymore. i don't know about cheap, but they look kinda cheesy to me now.