As the winter season approaches, it’s the perfect time to get creative with your nails, whether you’re looking for bold holiday-inspired designs or subtle, elegant manicures that will carry you through the chilly months. With a focus on individuality and embracing trends, this year’s winter nail ideas are all about showcasing personal style while staying ahead of the curve.
From festive party looks to chic, everyday designs, we’ll explore the hottest trends of 2024-2025 and provide step-by-step guides on how to recreate each look at home.
Winter Elegance with a Green French Tip
Elevate your winter style with this chic and modern French tips manicure design. The combination of deep green almond-shaped nails and silver glitter accents creates an air of sophistication, making it perfect for both festive gatherings and formal events. To add a touch of whimsy, delicate snowflake art adorns the middle nails, striking a balance between simplicity and captivation. This look is made all the more special thanks to @clairehowardnaildesign’s exquisite photography.
For this design, you’ll need: Essie ‘Off Tropic’ nail polish for the green tips, Essie ‘Set in Stones’ for the silver glitter accent, OPI Natural Nail Base Coat as a base coat, Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat to seal it all, and a thin detailing brush and dotting tool for the nail art. Optional, but certainly helpful, are snowflake nail stickers for effortless detailing. To get this look, start by shaping your nails into almonds and applying a clear base coat.
Next, paint on the green French tips using a detailing brush, following the natural curve of your nail for a seamless finish. Add a line of silver glitter at the tip for added festivity. For the snowflakes, use a thin brush to carefully paint the details or apply pre-made stickers. Finally, seal with a glossy top coat for long-lasting shine and durability.
Matte Black with White Feathers
For those who crave making a statement during the winter season, this bold manicure is an ideal choice. The acrylic long nails boast a striking matte black finish, which serves as the perfect backdrop for the show-stopping white feather design. The contrasting textures and colors come together to create an edgy yet elegant aesthetic that’s sure to turn heads.
A metallic gold bead at the center of the design adds an extra layer of luxury, making this manicure perfect for formal events or festive gatherings. To recreate this look, start by applying a base coat to your nails. Then, paint the entire nail with matte black polish and allow it to dry completely. Next, use a thin brush to create delicate feather strokes in white, starting from the center of the nail and working your way outwards.
Add a small gold bead or rhinestone at the center of the design for an added touch of luxury. Finally, seal the look with a matte top coat to maintain the sleek, modern finish.
Icy Blue Snowflakes and Glitter
Winter brings a sense of serenity and tranquility, and what better way to encapsulate that feeling than with a frosty winter nails idea? This acrylic square nail design is painted in soft pastel blue, reminiscent of a winter sky, with delicate white snowflake accents adding a touch of whimsy. The pièce de résistance is the glittery silver accent nail, which gives the overall look a sparkling, snowy finish.
Perfect for those who want a simple yet festive design that can be worn both casually and to winter events, this winter nails idea is sure to bring a smile to your face. The consumables needed to achieve this look are minimal: Essie’s ‘Bikini So Teeny’ blue polish, OPI’s ‘Alpine Snow’ white polish for the snowflakes, Essie’s ‘Set in Stones’ glitter polish, and base coat and top coat. For added sparkle, you can also use a dotting tool or dust on some glitter powder.
To recreate this winter wonderland-inspired look at home, start by applying a base coat to your nails. Then, paint the entire nail with the soft blue polish. Use a thin brush to create delicate snowflake designs on a few accent nails, adding a touch of elegance to the overall design. Finish off the look by applying a glitter polish to one nail or dusting a glitter powder over wet polish for an extra dose of sparkle. Finally, seal it all in with a top coat to add shine and protect your nail art.
Chic Winter Pink with Bow Accents
Winter’s elegance is perfectly captured in this stunning pink manicure. The combination of soft, dusty pink and glitter finishes on acrylic almond nails creates a sophisticated look that’s perfect for any winter occasion. But what truly sets it apart is the charming 3D bow design on one accent nail, adding a playful touch to an otherwise polished appearance. This versatile look effortlessly transitions from formal events to casual outings, making it a wardrobe staple for your nails.
For this look, you’ll need:* Nail polish: OPI ‘Dulce de Leche’ (pink) and Essie ‘Set in Stones’ (glitter)* 3D nail art decorations: Small rhinestones or a bow-shaped charm* Base coat and top coat* Thin brush for detailingTo achieve this look, start by shaping your nails into an almond form. Apply a base coat followed by the soft pink polish. Add some extra sparkle to one accent nail with glitter polish. Then, use nail glue to secure a pre-made bow or rhinestones onto another accent nail.
Finish off the look with a glossy top coat to ensure the bow stays in place and your manicure lasts longer.
Playful Plaid with Santa Accent
Embrace the festive spirit by adding a playful touch to your holiday manicure! This SNS design combines gray and red plaid patterns with a whimsical Santa-inspired accent nail, striking the perfect balance between fun and formal. The clean lines of the plaid pattern create a sophisticated look, while the jolly Santa face adds an undeniable dash of holiday cheer.
For those seeking to bring some Christmas magic to their nails in a simple yet eye-catching way, this French tip-inspired manicure is the ideal choice.
For this design, you’ll need the following consumables:* Nail polish: OPI ‘I Can Never Hut Up’ (gray), OPI ‘Big Apple Red’ (red), and Essie ‘White Out’ (white for Santa)* Nail art tools: A thin brush for plaid detailing and a dotting tool* Additional decorations: Stickers or hand-painted Santa faceTo create this merry masterpiece, follow these steps:1. Apply a gray base coat to all nails and let it dry.2.
Using your trusty thin brush, paint red and white lines to create a plaid pattern on some of the nails.3. On the accent nail, carefully craft or apply a Santa face using white and red polish.4. Finish off the look by sealing with a top coat for added durability.
Frosty Glitter Almond Nails
Winter’s soft elegance is captured in this almond-shaped nail design, where subtle snowflakes and shimmering pale glitter come together to create a dreamy, frosty finish. The elongated shape of the acrylic nails adds sophistication, while the delicate white snowflakes on the ring and middle fingers provide a touch of festive charm. This understated yet chic manicure is perfect for those who want to add a hint of seasonal flair to their winter look.
Photo credit by: @sylwiasajchtaTo recreate this look, start by shaping your nails into an almond form and apply a base coat to protect them. Next, apply a soft neutral polish as the base color. For added detail, use a thin brush or nail stickers to create delicate snowflakes on the accent nails. For extra shimmer, dust glitter powder onto two of your nails. Finally, seal the design with a clear top coat for long-lasting results.
Elegant White and Silver Glam
This winter wonderland-inspired manicure combines classic French tip elegance with modern flair. A silver glitter ring finger and white half-moon pinky nail design add a touch of sophistication, while rhinestones create a delicate snowflake pattern on one accent nail. The acrylic square shape gives the overall look a clean and sharp finish. Perfect for holiday parties or formal events, this festive manicure is sure to impress.
To recreate this glamorous look, start by shaping your nails into an acrylic square form and applying a base coat. Paint the nails in pure white polish, leaving a half-moon design on the pinky nail for added flair. Next, apply silver glitter polish on the ring finger for a touch of glamour. Use rhinestones to create a snowflake pattern on one accent nail using nail glue. Finally, seal with a top coat to ensure longevity and shine.
Consumables Needed:- Nail polish: Essie ‘Blanc’ (white), Essie ‘Set in Stones’ (glitter)- Top coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat- Rhinestones: Silver or clear rhinestones for snowflake detailing- Nail glue for securing rhinestones
Black Snowflake and Glitter Design
This winter wonderland-inspired manicure combines the elegance of soft pink with the boldness of black snowflakes and gold glitter, making it perfect for both casual and formal winter events. The delicate almond shape adds a touch of sophistication, while the contrasting colors create a striking visual effect. To add an extra layer of festivity, the index and pinky nails feature a generous coat of golden glitter, giving the overall look a radiant sheen.
For this manicure, you’ll need:Nail polish: OPI ‘Bubble Bath’ (soft pink base), Essie ‘Good as Gold’ (glitter)Black nail art pen or thin brush for snowflake detailingTop coat for added shine and protectionTo recreate the look, start by applying a base coat followed by the soft pink polish. Next, use a thin brush to paint intricate black snowflakes on the middle nails, adding small polka dots for extra detail. Coat the remaining nails with gold glitter polish to add some holiday sparkle.
Finish off the design with a top coat to ensure it lasts throughout the winter season.
Festive Red and Gold Christmas Nails
To add some holiday cheer to your nail game, try this acrylic almond manicure that combines bold colors and fun designs. The look features a rich red base color with detailed holiday-themed decals on each nail, except for the ring finger where gold glitter adds a touch of sophistication. A heart-shaped accent nail in a gold and white design brings everything together, making it perfect for special occasions during the winter season.
This is a great option for those who want to make a statement with their nails. To recreate this look, you’ll need:* Essie ‘Scarlet O’Hara’ (red) and ‘Good as Gold’ (gold glitter) nail polish* Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat* Nail decals featuring reindeer, snowflakes, and heart-shaped designs* Nail glue for securing the decalsTo get started, shape your nails into an almond form and apply a base coat. Paint each nail with the red polish, except for the ring finger where you’ll add gold glitter.
Apply the holiday-themed decals to the red nails for a playful touch. Finally, seal everything with a glossy top coat to ensure the design lasts throughout the season.
Ombre Blue with Rhinestone Embellishments
The SNS design features an icy allure, transitioning smoothly from a soft white at the base to a deeper blue towards the tip, creating a captivating ombre effect. To add some extra flair, rhinestone clusters are strategically placed on the accent nail, radiating a dazzling sparkle that elevates this understated winter design. This versatile manicure effortlessly shifts between casual and formal settings, making it suitable for both everyday wear and special occasions.
Photo credit: @project_paznokcieConsumables Needed:Nail polish: OPI ‘Alpine Snow’ (white base), Essie ‘Butler Please’ (blue)Ombre sponge for blending the colorsRhinestones or crystals for embellishmentsNail glue for rhinestonesHow to Create the Look:Start by using an ombre sponge to seamlessly blend the white and blue polishes from the base to the tip, creating a striking visual effect.
For the accent nail, carefully apply rhinestones using nail glue to create a stunning cluster effect that adds depth and dimensionality. Finish off the look with a top coat to not only secure the rhinestones but also protect the ombre effect from chipping.
Candy Cane French and Winter Swirls
This whimsical acrylic long manicure is a masterclass in blending winter wonderland charm with playful candy cane stripes. The soft pink base color adds a touch of femininity, while the white and glitter accents create visual interest that’s simply merry-making. Each nail boasts its own unique design, from swirling peppermint patterns to snowflake-inspired flourishes, making this look a true showstopper. Perfect for those who crave a bold yet elegant holiday-themed manicure that turns heads.
To recreate this delightful design, you’ll need:* Nail polish: OPI ‘Mod About You’ (pink base), OPI ‘Alpine Snow’ (white), Essie ‘Set in Stones’ (glitter)* Nail art tools: Thin detailing brush for swirls and snowflakes* Nail glue for glitter accentsTo get started, apply a soft pink base coat and let it dry. Then, use your trusty thin detailing brush to create the peppermint swirl patterns and snowflakes on various nails, alternating the designs for maximum visual impact.
Next, apply glitter polish around the edges of the design for that extra touch of festive flair. Finally, seal with a high-shine top coat to protect the intricate details and ensure your manicure remains merry and bright all season long.
Cozy Pink Knit Sweater Nails
Embracing winter’s coziness, this SNS pink manicure takes inspiration from a warm, fuzzy sweater. The solid pink base paired with a matte finish creates a soft, inviting appearance, while raised detailing mimics the tactile texture of knitted fabric. For added whimsy, white snowflakes and candy cane stripes add a playful touch, making this design perfect for those snuggly days when you want your nails to evoke the same warmth as your favorite winter sweater.
This festive yet understated look is achieved through the combination of a simple short acrylic finish, delicate nail art, and clever use of texture and color.
Earthy Matte Green and Winter White
This winter-inspired acrylic almond manicure boasts a unique fusion of natural and earthy tones. The combination of matte sage green and winter white creates a sleek, modern aesthetic, subtly incorporating snowflake details that add a touch of seasonal flair. A raised sweater texture on one accent nail lends a cozy, tactile feel to the overall design. Perfect for those who prefer understated yet stylish winter nail art, this look effortlessly captures the essence of the season.
For your convenience, we’ve outlined the necessary consumables and tools needed to recreate this look: Nail polish (Essie ‘Going Incognito’ and OPI ‘Alpine Snow’), matte top coat, 3D gel for sweater texture, and a thin brush for delicate snowflake detailing. To bring this design to life, start by applying a matte top coat over a sage green and white base coat. Next, use 3D gel to create raised patterns on one accent nail for the sweater design.
Delicately paint a snowflake on another nail using a thin brush, then finish the look with a final layer of matte top coat to maintain cohesion and elegance.
Christmas Tree and Candy Cane Fun
This holiday-themed manicure is a delightful fusion of whimsy and festivity, perfect for spreading cheer at parties and gatherings. The Alpine Snow polish provides a crisp white base, while Red Hot Rio adds a pop of color with its bold red hue. The pièce de résistance is the 3D Christmas tree on the ring finger, adding a playful touch to the overall design. For those seeking a simple yet festive look that captures the holiday spirit, this manicure is an excellent choice.
To recreate this look at home, start by applying a clear base coat followed by white French tips on each nail. Use a thin brush to paint delicate polka dots and holly leaves on select nails for added texture. Secure 3D decorations like Christmas trees and candy canes in place using nail glue, ensuring they remain stable throughout the day. Finally, seal the design with a top coat to keep everything fresh and secure.
Cute Winter Animals in Sweaters
This enchanting winter nails design is a must-have for anyone who wants to add a dash of whimsy and personality to their holiday look. The adorable animal characters, dressed in cozy sweaters and set against a soft pastel backdrop, are sure to bring cheer and warmth to your fingertips. With a mix of subtle glitter accents and delicate hand-painting, this manicure is the perfect way to celebrate the winter season or simply spread some festive vibes throughout the year.
To recreate this show-stopping look, you’ll need:* Nail polish: OPI ‘Kyoto Pearl’ (white) and Essie ‘Mint Candy Apple’ (pastels) for a soft, wintry base* Essie ‘Set in Stones’ (glitter) to add an extra touch of sparkle* A fine detailing brush for hand-painting the animal characters and sweater details* A high-shine top coat to seal and protect the artworkTo get started, paint each nail with a soft pastel or white base color.
Then, use your trusty fine brush to bring the adorable animals to life on each nail. Don’t forget to add some subtle glitter accents to give your design an extra touch of festive flair. Finally, top it all off with a high-shine top coat to seal in the artwork and ensure it lasts throughout the holiday season.
Frosty French Glitter Ombre
Imagine a winter wonderland on your fingertips with this effortlessly chic acrylic long manicure. The perfect blend of French tip style and glitter ombré effect creates a look that’s both formal and festive. The subtle transition from crisp white to soft pink is reminiscent of a snow-covered mountain, while the glitter accent on the ring finger adds a touch of winter sparkle. This look is ideal for those who prefer a more polished winter manicure with a hint of shine.
The minimalistic approach makes it perfect for everyday wear, allowing you to celebrate the season without going overboard. Photo credit: @latelieroboutdesonglesConsumables Needed:Nail polish: OPI ‘Alpine Snow’ (white), Essie ‘Ballet Slippers’ (pink), Essie ‘Set in Stones’ (glitter)Ombre sponge for blendingTop coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top CoatTo recreate this look, start by shaping your nails into a long square or acrylic shape.
Next, apply a French tip using white polish and blend the pink and white together using an ombre sponge to create a seamless transition. For the accent nails, add glitter to the base and blend it upwards for a radiant finish. Finally, seal everything with a top coat for a glossy and long-lasting result.
Burgundy Snowflake Accent
For a classic winter look that exudes luxury and practicality, this deep burgundy manicure with a snowflake accent is an excellent choice. The rich, solid burgundy polish provides a sophisticated backdrop for the delicate snowflake on the accent nail, adding a touch of seasonal flair without overpowering the overall design. This look is particularly well-suited to those who prioritize functionality while still wanting to make a stylish statement.
To create this look, start by applying OPI ‘Malaga Wine’ (burgundy) polish to all nails except the ring finger. Use a thin brush or snowflake stencil to delicately paint a snowflake design on the accent nail using OPI ‘Alpine Snow’ (white). Finally, seal your work with a top coat for added shine and durability.
Mixed Texture Winter Pink
Winter’s whimsy is captured in this enchanting manicure, where matte and glossy textures blend seamlessly to evoke the season’s cozy charm. The almond-shaped acrylic nails add an air of sophistication, while the soft pink base provides a warm, inviting backdrop for the intricate designs. Delicate snowflakes and textured sweater patterns create a three-dimensional effect, imbuing the look with playful depth and visual interest.
This manicure strikes a perfect balance between natural elegance and artistic flair, making it an ideal choice for those who crave a look that’s both understated yet eye-catching. To recreate this wintry wonderland, you’ll need:* Essie ‘Blushing Bride’ (pink) and OPI ‘Alpine Snow’ (white) nail polishes* 3D gel for sweater texture* Matte and glossy top coats* A thin brush for precision detailsFollow these steps to achieve the look:1. Begin with a matte pink base coat on each nail.2.
Use 3D gel to create textured sweater patterns on one nail, and delicate snowflakes on another.3. Add white accents to one nail using a thin brush for precise application.4. Seal your handiwork with the appropriate top coat for a long-lasting finish.
Winter Blue and Grey Landscape
Winter’s serenity is captured in this nail art design, featuring a harmonious blend of cool blue and grey tones. The almond-shaped acrylic nails provide a sleek canvas for the artistic snowy tree accents, while the gradient effect adds a touch of sophistication. A serene winter landscape unfolds with the fusion of these calming hues.
This look can be replicated by blending grey and blue shades on the accent nails using an ombre sponge, hand-painting tree designs with a thin brush, and finishing with a glossy top coat. To recreate this design, you’ll need Essie ‘Truth or Bare’ (nude base), OPI ‘Suzi & The Arctic Fox’ (grey), and Essie ‘Butler Please’ (blue) nail polish, as well as a thin brush for tree detailing and an ombre sponge for gradient blending.
Frosty Gold Glitter with Rhinestones
This winter manicure exudes sophistication and glamour, featuring a soft beige base accented by frosty gold glitter and rhinestone embellishments. The intricate snowflake design on the accent nail adds a touch of whimsy, while the rhinestones at the cuticles bring a sense of luxury to the overall look. Perfect for those who want to make a statement during the winter season.
Photo credit: @bbnailart_studio
Consumables Needed:
Nail polish: OPI ‘My Vampire is Buff’ (beige) and Essie ‘Good as Gold’ (gold glitter)
Rhinestones for embellishments
Nail art tools: Thin brush for snowflake design and nail glue for securing rhinestones
To achieve this look, start by applying a soft beige base to all nails. Then, add gold glitter to the accent nails for a touch of luxury.
Use nail glue to carefully place rhinestones at the cuticles of the middle nails, adding an extra layer of sophistication.
Next, hand-paint a snowflake design on the accent nail using a thin brush and white polish. Finally, top it all off with a glossy finish to secure the design.
Bold Blue Winter Tips
Elevate your winter nail game with this striking acrylic almond manicure. A bold blue French tip twist is paired with delicate snowflake accents on the middle finger, creating a stunning contrast against a soft nude base. The added sparkle from glitter polish brings an extra touch of festive flair, making it perfect for holiday gatherings or simply adding some brightness to your winter look. This eye-catching yet elegant design is sure to turn heads during the colder months.
To recreate this look, start by applying a soft nude base coat on each nail. Then, use a thin brush to paint sharp French tips in vibrant blue on all nails except the accent finger. For the middle finger, create a delicate snowflake design using white polish and add some glitter for extra shimmer. Finish off the look with a top coat for added shine and longevity. Consumables Needed:Nail polish: OPI ‘Do You Have This Color in Stockholm?
‘ (blue), Essie ‘Ballet Slippers’ (nude base)Fine glitter polish for extra shimmerThin brush for snowflake detailingTop coat for added shine
Snowflake and Rhinestone Glam
This winter-ready acrylic long manicure is a showstopper, combining the whimsy of glitter, intricate snowflake designs, and subtle rhinestone accents. The gradual transition from pure white to pale pink creates an ombre effect that’s both elegant and eye-catching. Whether you’re attending a festive event or ringing in the New Year, this design is sure to make a statement.
To achieve this look, you’ll need:* Nail polish: OPI ‘Alpine Snow’ (white) and Essie ‘Ballet Slippers’ (pink)* Glitter polish: Essie ‘Set in Stones’* Rhinestones for embellishments* Nail art tools: A thin brush for delicate snowflake detailing* Nail glue for securing rhinestonesTo create this look, start by applying the ombre effect using a sponge to blend white and pink shades from tip to base. Next, apply glitter polish to your accent nails and add rhinestones for an extra touch of glamour.
Use a thin brush to hand-paint delicate snowflakes on one or two nails, and seal the design with a top coat to ensure the details stay intact.
Opal Shine and Candy Cane Swirl
Transform your winter wonderland look with an enchanting acrylic square manicure. Holographic foil and opal-like shimmer combine for a mesmerizing effect, while delicate snowflakes and candy cane-inspired swirls add whimsical charm. This understated design is perfect for those who want to celebrate the holiday season in style without going overboard.
As seen on @b0nails_and_makeup’s Instagram post, this look requires a few simple yet essential consumables:
Nail polish: Essie ‘Mademoiselle’ (base), OPI ‘Alpine Snow’ (white for accents)
Holographic foil for added shine
Top coat: Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat for a glossy finish
Nail art tools: Thin brush for delicate candy cane stripes and snowflakes
To achieve this magical look, start by applying a sheer nude base coat. Next, add holographic foil to the nails for an opal-like sheen.
For accent nails, use a thin brush to paint white candy cane swirls. On the remaining nails, create intricate snowflakes using white polish and a thin detailing brush. Finish with a top coat to lock in the design and preserve the manicure’s luster.
