For a sleek, contemporary appearance, drizzle a smooth icing over the cake's top and allow it to run down the edges.
To create a lovely marbled look, swirl two or more icing colors together using a spatula.
For a delicate, sophisticated appearance, apply icing using a piping bag and a ruffled tip to create textural ruffles.
To give the cake a smooth, airy feel, pipe fluffy whipped cream clouds all around it.
For a homey, rustic appeal, use a fork or spatula to give the surface a textured finish.