Discover our favourite winter nail ideas, from icy blues to rich berry shades & festive sparkles
As autumn turns into winter, we’re turning our minds to the best winter nails. Whether you’re looking for amazing metallics or the latest matte finish, there’s a winter manicure style for everyone.
From the coolest winter nail colours to winter nail art ideas, discover classy nail looks to keep your tips on trend from the depths of December to frosty February.
Read on for our top five winter nail looks for 2024.
Icy blues & silvers
One of our favourite winter nail ideas? Turning your mani into a frosted winter wonderland with delicate icy blues and stunning silvers. Choose one shade for a classic look, or layer up for more depth.
Gorgeous
Gorgeous colour, so festive and I love essie, so easy to apply
For a sparkling finish
Try: Essie Original Nail Art Studio Special Effects Pixel Pearl Nail Polish Topcoat – Frosted Fantasy
• Size: 13.5ml
Add this shimmering blue shade as the final touch to your wintery manicure, pairing it with sparkling silvers or glistening whites. Or wear on bare nails for a more subtle effect.
Rich berry hues
Berry shades are the perfect nail look to carry you through from autumn to winter. From deep cherry reds to decadent damson shades, they’re a timeless classic you can always rely on.
For the best base
Try: OPI Nail Polish – Samoan Sand – Nude
• Size: 15ml
To get the richest colour payoff from your berry shade, start with a good, neutral base. This warm, beige-pink polish from OPI gives a streak-free finish, so your darker shades will go on more evenly.
Samoan Sand
Gorgeous colour, bought it for my mum and she’s chuffed to bits!
Glamorous metallics
Metallics are one of the best ways to bring a touch of luxe to your manicure, and there’s a lot more variety to the look than you might think! There’s a whole range of silvers and golds to try, but you can also get your hands on metallics in lots of other colours, too.
Lasting and lovely colour
Lovely nail polish and lasts for ages without chipping
Elegant matte finishes
Chic and sophisticated, the best bit about the matte nail trend? How easy it is to achieve. Simply overlay a matte topcoat on any of the shades you love (we think it looks great on a deep burgundy, emerald green or dark purple!) for an instant nail upgrade.
Festive glitter & sparkles
A list of winter nail trends wouldn’t be complete without one that’s just right for the Christmas season. This look brings you the richest reds and brightest sparkles, for a holiday look that takes you from Christmas parties through to Christmas day!
Really good shine
Great colour. Stays on well with base and topcoat
For a simple sparkle
Try: Boots Pre-Glued Nails – Sparkle Surprise – Glitter Ombre
• 24 pre-glued nails
Take the effort out of your Christmas manicure with these pre-glued nails. In a festive glitter ombre, get a nail art look with none of the faff. Simply peel off the backing and press down onto your natural nail.
So, whether you’re going for sophisticated matte, luxurious berries or shimmering metallics, with these top trends you’ll have everything you need for nails that nail it, all winter long.
Winter nail FAQs
What is a popular nail colour for winter?
While we’d always say ‘wear whatever feels right for you’, popular winter nail palettes often include darker hues and colours that reflect the weather. Think dark red berry nail colours, sparkling silvers that mirror the frost outside and deep navy blues for a luxurious look.
Are nails weaker in winter?
It’s true that your nails can become weaker in winter. As the temperature drops your nails (and your skin and hair!) can lose more moisture, which leaves them vulnerable to becoming drier and more brittle. Learn more about how to grow longer and stronger nails and find nail treatments that can help.
Is white nail polish ok for winter?
Yes, it is! Whilst we all know that white nail polish can make you look tanned in summer, it’s a great choice for winter that reflects the snow and ice outside, goes with any outfit and can even be made festive with a bit of extra sparkle!
