Festive Nail Trends for Christmas
Festive clothing is usually synonymous with sequins, velvet and the classic red nail. However, if you’re looking for something new that’s either barely there or highly seasonal, you can choose from a variety of manicure trends. According to nail artists, there’s a way to do both without falling into cliches.
Top 5 Looks for Christmas
Here are the top five looks to ask for at your next nail appointment in time for Christmas.
1. Seasonal French
The French manicure has come back into style over the past year, but for Christmas it’s getting a seasonal upgrade. An “ombré,” or colored French tip, in a seasonal color like deep red is a favorite among manicurists. You can also just enjoy a sparkling French tip to see you through the New Year festivities too! It’s a subtle option, but still office-appropriate and works on both long and short nails.
2. Quiet Luxury Colors
While festive nail palettes are usually all about glitter, this season things are a little more “calmed down.” A calm, luxe approach to festive nails, with softer, polished tones with a touch of depth, like a deep mulled wine red or velvety plum, is a popular choice. Instead of neutral beige tones, these are rich, earthy hues that reflect the winter wardrobe.
3. Matt Chrome
On the bolder end of the spectrum, magnetic gels are a must. They come in a huge range of colors and can even be layered for different effects. Cat-eye nails – the reflective manicure that mimics a cat’s eye – are ubiquitous for Christmas. Chrome is also back, but more sophisticated than that of the late 2010s, with a "Frozen Chrome" look that has an icy, mirror-like finish in silver or light blue tones.
4. Velvet Surfaces
Velvet nails – a gently light-reflecting effect created with special magnetic powders – are also on the rise. They’re bold but not loud and are perfect for a festive, seasonally inspired outfit. As for colors, green remains one of the hottest colors this winter, with a deep emerald green feeling luxurious.
5. Almond Shapes
When it comes to shape, the pros agree: you don’t need extra length to make a festive manicure look elegant. Shorter, practical nails are back in style, especially the short almond and soft square nails. The almond silhouette provides a good canvas for nail art, while the soft taper adds a more sophisticated touch to even more daring designs.
