5 Winter Nail Ideas To Inspire Your Next Manicure

Holly nail art

If you’re looking for a slightly more playful way to showcase your love for the holiday season, consider pairing a sheer manicure with miniature holly nail art designs. This cute winter nail art look is understated, yet festive (and, as far as we’re concerned, surprisingly chic, too).

Forest green

Different skin complexions with Forest Green nails

Dark green is a unique shade because it almost functions as a neutral—the deep, earthy hue pairs well with pretty much every color. It’s also quietly festive, with its inherent association with evergreen trees (which, depending on where you live, might be the only plant life with any discernable color this time of year). Embrace the look with a solid forest green lacquer, like the Essie Nail Polish in Off Tropic.

Celestial accents

If you want to embrace a little sparkle but aren’t in the mood for a full-on glitter moment, consider doing a gilded celestial nail art look instead. It still feels festive and glam but isn’t as in-your-face as confetti-flecked polish.

Midnight blue

Midnight Blue Nails

Inky, velvety, moody—what’s not to love about a midnight blue mani? The deep cobalt shade is suitable for any time of year, but the darker tone lends itself especially well to equally dark winter days. Plus, you can DIY the look in a flash with the Essie Expressie Quick-Dry Nail Polish in Left on Shred (no chilly trek to the salon needed).