Winter is officially here, and with it comes a fresh wave of beauty trends—especially in the world of nails. Whether you’re looking to spice up your usual mani or try something bold and new, this season has something for everyone. From icy metallics to cozy, soft hues, winter 2024’s nail trends are all about embracing the cool, crisp vibes of the season while still staying chic and stylish.
So, grab your favorite non-toxic nail polish and get ready to explore five nail trends that are making waves this winter. These looks are perfect for both holiday parties and quiet nights by the fire, ensuring that your nails will look as fab as you feel all season long.
Nothing says winter quite like the sparkle of freshly fallen snow—and icy metallic nails are the perfect way to capture that frosty magic. This season, metallic shades are taking over, with everything from silver and gold to rich chrome and iridescent finishes making a statement.
The key to pulling off metallic nails is choosing a finish that suits your personal style. For a bold, futuristic vibe, opt for chrome nails that shine like polished steel. If you’re after something a bit softer, a pearlescent silver or gold can create a more subtle, ethereal look. These shades are great for everything from festive holiday events to a chic, everyday look.
If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, try incorporating metallic accents into your nail art. Think about combining a matte base with metallic tips, or even experimenting with ombré gradients that transition from a deep metallic at the cuticle to a soft shimmer at the tips.
What’s Trending:
Influencers like @nailsbyzola and @itsmecatherine are consistently showcasing metallic nails, and you can find trendy looks under hashtags like #ChromeNails and #IcyNails. Many creators are opting for chrome effects in shades like silver, gold, and even holographic purples, which are all trending right now.
Winter isn’t just about cool colors and chilly vibes; it’s also the season for cozy textures and soft, comforting elements. This year, textured nails are a big trend, particularly designs that mimic the warmth of knitted sweaters. Think sweater-inspired patterns that feature chunky, raised designs for a tactile look and feel.
To create this cozy aesthetic, look for nail polishes or nail stickers that allow you to replicate the intricate cable-knit patterns often seen on winter sweaters. Alternatively, nail artists are using 3D embellishments, like tiny beads or raised gel designs, to craft a textured, knitted look that mimics the comforting layers of a thick, wintery sweater.
These nails don’t just look adorable, they also evoke a sense of warmth, making them perfect for colder months when you want to curl up by the fire with a mug of hot cocoa. This trend works especially well in shades of creamy beige, soft taupe, or muted pastels. Plus, the tactile effect will ensure that your nails feel as cozy as they look!
What’s Trending:
Nail artists like @betina_goldstein and @nails_by_diana have become known for their textured designs, which are often cozy, intricate, and perfect for the season. The trend is perfect for those who want a fun yet subtle design that screams “winter vibes.”
Winter is the season of bold, dramatic color palettes, and deep, moody shades are front and center this year. Think rich plum purples, midnight blues, and sophisticated forest greens. These dark, jewel-toned hues are perfect for winter, as they complement the season’s natural palette and give your nails an elegant, high-fashion edge.
One of the hottest colors this winter is a deep burgundy, which gives off a luxurious vibe while still feeling cozy and festive. Paired with a matte finish or even a glossy topcoat, burgundy nails can be both striking and understated, making them ideal for everything from office wear to holiday dinners.
Another popular shade this winter is midnight navy, which offers a cooler alternative to black. It’s mysterious, bold, and effortlessly chic—great for those who want something a little more unique. If you’re in the mood for something more adventurous, emerald green nails are also making a big comeback. The rich color exudes sophistication, making it the perfect choice for a chic night out or a luxe winter wedding.
These deep hues are ideal for winter, as they’re versatile enough to transition from day to night and can be paired with everything in your closet. Plus, they provide a lovely contrast to the more neutral tones of winter outerwear and accessories.
What’s Trending:
These deep hues are especially popular around the holidays when people are looking for that festive yet elegant look. For example, @nails_by_stephanie often posts moody hues in rich wine shades that are perfect for winter gatherings, and @naileditmama shares winter-inspired manicures in deep purples and blues that play well with the season’s colder, darker tones.
Winter nail trends aren’t all about traditional designs or festive themes—this season, abstract art and negative space nails are taking over. If you’re someone who likes to keep things fresh and creative, abstract nail designs might be just what you need.
Negative space nails involve leaving parts of the nail bare to create geometric or freeform designs. This minimalist approach gives your nails a modern, artsy vibe that pairs perfectly with the sleek, cool aesthetic of winter. You can create simple lines, shapes, or even abstract patterns with a nude or clear base coat, leaving parts of the nail exposed for an effortlessly chic effect.
Alternatively, you can combine bold abstract shapes with rich colors to create a striking visual contrast. Think about pairing dark matte shades with pops of metallics or pastels for a truly eye-catching look. Abstract nail art works well for those who want to get creative and push the boundaries of traditional nail designs, offering endless opportunities for customization.
This trend isn’t just for those who love a minimalist vibe—it can also be adapted for more intricate, statement-making designs. Whether you go for simple stripes or complex asymmetrical shapes, abstract nails add a fresh, contemporary twist to your winter manicure.
What’s Trending:
Nail artists like @jessicawashick and @nailartbyqueenie are constantly pushing the boundaries with their abstract, geometric, and negative space designs, often mixing colors like black, white, and muted pastels. The hashtag #NegativeSpaceNails has seen a massive surge, with thousands of posts showcasing everything from negative space chevrons to asymmetrical lines and minimalist shapes.
While bold and adventurous designs may dominate the nail scene this winter, there’s always a place for the classics. For many, the holidays just wouldn’t feel the same without a perfect red or green manicure. This season, classic holiday colors are getting a sophisticated update, making them as stylish as they are festive.
Rich, deep reds are perfect for winter, offering a timeless and elegant option for everything from Christmas parties to New Year’s Eve celebrations. Think shades like ruby, scarlet, or even a dark, wine-like burgundy. These hues look fabulous against winter skin tones and complement the richness of holiday attire.
Similarly, winter greens have made a strong comeback this year. Deep forest greens, olive tones, and even a subtle mint shade can create a chic, nature-inspired look that ties perfectly into the season’s aesthetic. You can even experiment with nail art that incorporates both red and green in creative ways—perhaps a half-and-half look, or a delicate, festive design like holly leaves or subtle plaid patterns.
These classic colors are versatile and can easily transition from a holiday party look to something more subdued for everyday wear. Plus, their timeless nature ensures they’ll never go out of style, making them a reliable go-to for anyone who loves a bit of seasonal glam.
What’s Trending:
The hashtag #HolidayNails is packed with posts showcasing these timeless colors, with many users experimenting with variations—like deep, matte reds or sparkly greens—to make them feel fresh and contemporary. @moonlitnails and @nailstorming regularly post gorgeous holiday manicures using these shades, incorporating everything from simple, elegant designs to full-on Christmas-themed art.
From icy metallics and cozy textures to bold deep hues and abstract designs, this winter’s nail trends offer something for everyone. Whether you’re gearing up for a glamorous holiday party, looking for a cozy, comforting look, or just want to experiment with fun, creative designs, the nail world is your oyster this season.
So, this winter, why not embrace the season with a fresh manicure that suits your style? After all, nothing completes a winter outfit quite like a fabulous set of nails that reflect the beauty of the season.
Want to Read Another Article? Try Reading This One On the 7 Best Non-toxic Nail Polishes
Fill in your details to stay updated on all the latest news with OhDaisey and get access to our Clean Beauty Guide Download!