When you need a midday boost, there’s nothing quite like admiring a beautiful design on your nails. Whether you’re typing away at your desk or catching a glimpse of your manicure on your commute, a stylish set of nails is a surefire way to brighten up your day. With so many options to choose from, each season brings new ones.
Take this winter’s nail art trends, for example, which offer so many different styles and designs. While classic French manicures will always be in fashion, this winter, they get a chic chrome upgrade that feels modern and sleek. If you prefer to keep it simple, there are plenty of options for a manicure minimalist who likes short nails.
Whatever your mood or style, these nail art ideas will inspire you. Keep reading to see the trends that are going to be big this season!
Dark Aura Nails
When aura nails first came out, they were all about bright neon colors that were fun and playful. But the trend has recently shifted to moodier colors that fit the winter season. Celebrity manicurist Brittany Boyce says that as winter approaches, the darker the color, the better. This shift to deeper shades not only reflects the season’s aesthetic but also adds a touch of glamour to your look.
How to Do It at Home?
The best part is that it’s so much easier to do at home than when the trend first came out. “You can use regular nail polish and a makeup sponge to do the blended aura design,” she says. This means anyone can try this trend, and it’s perfect for those who want to add some glamour to their winter manicure.
Personal Thoughts
Personally, I love dark aura nails for winter. The blend of colors can be so mysterious and deep, and that’s what I love about winter. There’s something so satisfying about how darker shades can turn your nails into a statement piece, especially with sweaters and winter accessories.
Dark aura nails’ versatility is another reason I love this trend. You can play with different color combinations, from deep blues and purples to rich burgundies and blacks—there are so many options. Whether you like a subtle gradient or a more dramatic effect, you choose.
Solid Chrome Manicures
Ombré chrome nails have been a hit with nail enthusiasts for a while now, with their gradient effects and shimmer finishes. But this season, the pros say all over metallic and gilded will be the way to go. Solid chrome manicures are making a statement, a sleek and modern alternative to winter elegance.
Trying it out
If you’re new to the trend, a solid manicure is a great way to try it out. A silver chrome polish will give you a show-stopping effect that’s both bold and elegant. Pair that with short nails, and it’s a totally minimalist look, perfect for those who prefer a more low-key style.
If you want to experiment further, chrome manicures come in colors beyond silver. Think deep golds, rich coppers, and even vibrant jewel tones that can add a twist to your winter wardrobe. This means you can express yourself while still getting the solid chrome look.
Personally, I think solid chrome manicures are so chic and versatile. The reflective quality of chrome polish adds a new dimension to your nails. They stand out but not too flashy. I love how this trend can go from day to night; whether you’re at the office or out for a night in the town, solid chrome nails can dress up any outfit.
The best part of a solid chrome manicure is that it’s low-maintenance. Unlike intricate designs that require frequent touch-ups, a solid color can last longer and still look polished. This is a big plus for those with busy lifestyles who still want to look fabulous.
How to Do It?
If you’re going to try a solid chrome manicure, here are a few tips:
Prep your nails: Start with clean, shaped nails. Buff the surface lightly so that the polish adheres well.
Base Coat: Apply a good base coat to protect your nails and create a smooth surface for chrome polish.
Choose the right polish: Look for high-quality chrome polishes that give a smooth finish. Some brands even have gel options for longer wear.
Application: Use a thin brush to apply chrome polish. Multiple thin layers will give a better finish than one thick layer.
Top Coat: Finish with a top coat to lock in the shine and durability. This step is key to keeping that glossy, reflective look.
Chrome French Tips
Chrome tips turn the classic French manicure into an edgy look perfect for winter. This modern take on a timeless design means you can have elegance and boldness in one. There are many colors to choose from, but platinum silver will give you the iciest look, so it’s a must-try if you want to make a statement.
Chrome appeal
The reflective quality of chrome polish turns the French tips into a fashion accessory that goes with everything. With bold color, you don’t need much else to make your manicure pop. The simplicity of the design combined with the finish gives a sophisticated, edgy look that’s hard to ignore.
Options
Color options: Platinum silver is gorgeous, but for a different look, try other metallic shades, like rose gold, deep bronze, or even emerald green or royal blue.
Nail art accents: To add more chrome tips, try adding nail art accents like tiny gems or glitter. A few strategically placed embellishments will enhance the look without overwhelming the design.
Matte finish: For a more subtle look, try pairing chrome tips with a matte base. The contrast between the shiny tips and the matte finish will give the look of a modern and sleek car.
Geometric designs: Add geometric patterns or lines to the design for an extra bit of artistry. This will add more interest without overwhelming the look.
The perfect pair
If you want to take it up a notch, try pairing the chrome tips with long extensions. Long nails give you a bigger canvas for the chrome finish to play on. Whether you go for a classic almond shape or something more daring, the combination of long extensions and chrome tips is a show-stopper.
Tortoiseshell
The tortoiseshell print is so cozy for fall and winter. This classic design is warm and comforting, perfect for the colder months. Despite its complexity, it’s surprisingly easy to DIY, as there are no rules or straight lines to follow. This freedom is what makes it fun for nail art enthusiasts of all levels.
Get creative
To achieve a beautiful tortoiseshell look, you need to get creative with your brush strokes. Dabbing and blending to your heart’s content is what makes this design so unique. Celebrity nail artist Sarah Nguyen suggests using a mix of brown shades, including nude, tan, chocolate, and caramel. This combination will give you the tortoiseshell print and add depth to your nails.
To blend the colors, Sarah suggests using an ombré or blending brush dipped in acetone. This will allow the acetone to bloom the color over the nail and create a seamless transition between the shades. Once you’re happy with the blending, just add your top coat and cure everything together for a glossy finish.
Personal touches
What I love about the tortoiseshell design is that it’s so versatile. You can customize the colors to match your personal style or the outfits you’ll be wearing. For example, you can add deep green or burnt orange to create a seasonal twist that feels festive and fresh. You can also try different finishes, like matte or glossy, to take it to the next level.
3D Gold Elements
Gold accents are a classic look year-round, adding a touch of glamour and sophistication to any manicure. You could go for a simple gold leaf print, but nail artist Samantha Rose suggests taking it to the next level with a 3D design. This trend takes nail art to a whole new level and turns your nails into mini art pieces.
Take it up a Notch
One gorgeous example of this trend is an artistic 3D flower with a single gold accent nail. The combination of colors in this design is not only beautiful but also versatile for different occasions. The 3D flower adds texture and dimension to the design, making it stand out even more. It’s a great way to incorporate nature into your nail art while still keeping it chic and modern.
What I love about 3D gold elements is the personalization. You can choose different floral designs or even other shapes like geometric patterns or abstract forms to match your style. You can also try different color combinations to create a unique look that feels festive and fresh. For example, gold accents with deep jewel tones like emerald or sapphire will give you a luxurious feel perfect for holiday parties or special occasions.
Application tips
If you’re going to try 3D gold elements, here are a few tips to follow:
Use Good Quality Products: Use high-quality nail products, including 3D embellishments and gold accents, for a glossy finish.
Nail Prep: Start with prepped nails. Clean, buff, and apply a base coat to create a smooth surface for your design.
Placement: When applying 3D elements, consider the placement. One accent nail can be enough to draw attention without overwhelming the whole look.
Secure the Design: Use a strong top coat to secure the 3D elements so that they last as long as possible.
Classic French
French manicures are probably the most versatile nail design. They can easily go from casual to formal. Their timelessness lies in their simplicity and elegance, which is why many of us love them. But the classic one with the baby pink base and white tips still gets us every year.
Timeless Beauty
The beauty of the classic French manicure is in its subtlety. The soft pink base gives a natural look that enhances the nails without overpowering them, and the white tips add a touch of glamour. This combination gives a clean and glossy finish perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a day at the office, a wedding, or a night out.
The Almond Shape
The almond shape takes it to the next level, giving it a sophisticated finish that makes it look more irresistible. This shape lengthens the fingers and adds a touch of femininity, which is why it’s a favorite among those who love a more refined look. The almond shape is also versatile. You can pair it with different nail art designs or leave it simple for a classic look.
While the classic French manicure is beautiful on its own, there are many ways to personalize it. You can try different base colors, like soft nudes, pastels, or even bold colors, to give the classic design a modern twist. You can also add subtle nail art, like delicate floral patterns or tiny gems, to enhance the overall look without diminishing its elegance.
Pearl Accents
Seashell nails were big during summer and brought a beachy feel to nail art. While it’s not exactly winter, the concept can be adapted to feel seasonal. This look combines some of the season’s top colors, like rich browns and warm caramels, with cool textures that evoke winter’s serenity.
Seasonal twist
The combination of earthy tones with the soft, iridescent quality of pearl accents is gorgeous and feels both cozy and elegant. The warm colors are the natural beauty of the season, and the pearl adds a touch of glamour and charm. This design is perfect for those who want to stay connected to summer trends but go with winter aesthetic.
Pearl Elegance
The icing on the cake is the pearl accent in the center of the nail. Pearls have always been associated with elegance and luxury, making them the perfect addition to any manicure. Their subtle shine catches the light beautifully and adds a touch of sophistication to your nails.
If you want to take it to the next level, try placing a single rhinestone just below the pearl. This small addition will catch light every time and gives a glamorous effect perfect for holiday parties or special occasions. Pearls and rhinestones can turn a simple design into a showstopper.
Chrome Accents
Nail artist Brittany Boyce says chrome of all kinds will be big this winter, so it’s a must-try trend for nail enthusiasts. If you’re a maximalist when it comes to nail art, she recommends a sculptured manicure with fun chrome accents. This trend allows for creativity and boldness, perfect for making a statement during the cold months.
Sculptured Manicure
A sculptured manicure involves creating 3D elements on the nails, adding depth and interest to the overall look. Boyce suggests using a gel-like Aprés Nail’s Extend Gel, which is moldable and holds its shape well. This gel allows you to create intricate designs, from elegant swirls to playful shapes, all with the reflective quality of chrome.
Chrome Appeal
The beauty of chrome accents is that they catch the light and create a beautiful visual effect. Whether you choose chrome tips, geometric shapes, or even sculpted flowers, the metallic finish gives any design a modern spin. Chrome is versatile, so you can mix and match with different colors and styles and have endless possibilities.
Magnetic Glass
Nail artist Sarah Nguyen says the glass nail trend is going to be big this winter. This new style adds a twist to traditional nail art, perfect for those who want to level up their manicure. Whether you go for a bold cat eye or a solid gel color, the glass finish will take your manicure to the next level.
How to Get It?
To get this look, Nguyen suggests using magnetic polish. The process is to move the magnet vertically over the polish until you get the desired effect. This will create mesmerizing patterns that look like glass and add depth and dimension to your nails. The result is a beautiful finish that catches light and makes your nails pop.
Color Options
Nguyen says deep colors like red, emerald green, or brown are the best base for this trend. These colors provide a striking background for the glass effect and will make the overall look pop. The contrast between the dark base and the glass finish is luxurious and sophisticated, perfect for winter.
Luxury
If you want to add more glamour, try adding gemstones and jewels to your design. The addition of these embellishments will take your manicure to the next level. Placing a few gems around the cuticle or along the nail will add sparkle and sophistication and make your nails the perfect accessory for any winter outfit.
Jade
If dark colors aren’t your thing, try jade nails this winter. This trend is a nice alternative to the usual winter colors and allows for a beautiful combination of colors to brighten up the season. The marbled look is trending this year, and the design combines deep and light pastel shades to create a beautiful effect.
Marbled Effect
The jade design looks like the gemstone itself, with a mix of rich emerald greens and softer pastel shades. This marbling technique adds depth to your nails and creates a one-of-a-kind finish that will turn heads. The colors flow like the natural variations in real jade, so each manicure is unique.
New Colour Combinations
For a fresh take on this trend, try a cool mint and pistachio with the emerald base. This combination feels seasonally relevant and adds a fun twist to the classic jade look. The contrast between the deep emerald and the lighter pastels is striking and elegant.