Our nails are one of the key ways we express our style and personality. Some people prefer a clean and delicate manicure that simply makes them look put together, while others like to experiment with different designs as the seasons change and holidays approach. Nails are, after all, one of the first things we notice about someone when we greet them, and they’re often a conversation starter.
We can all agree that nails play a big role in our holiday season looks. They’re an easy way to show a little (or a lot) of holiday spirit without having to wear specific colors or accessories. It can be as subtle as a little gem detail or a solid deep green color, or you can go all out with glittery nails or candy canes.
Whatever level of festiveness your heart desires, we’ve got you covered with 10 holiday nail ideas you can either recreate at home or show to your manicurist. At the very least, you’ll gain some inspiration for your upcoming nail appointment.
Green & Holly
If you don’t want to fully commit to Christmas nails, go for something right in the middle with this design. The deep green French tips keep things subtle, while the two holly accent tips add just the smallest bit of cheer. This festive look is simple and perfect for Christmas time.
Blue Velvet
A more subtle holiday vibe steers away from the usual reds and greens. This blue is not only stunning, but the dazzling velvet effect is eye-catching and maintains a festive vibe. The minimal French tips paired with gem details are adorable and perfect to wear all month. We can totally see this nail design working for New Year’s Eve too.
Gingerbread Spin
This is perhaps the most unique take we’ve seen on holiday nails. These gingerbread-inspired nails are so cute and perfect if you want to go that extra mile this December. The white icing-like details on the “cookie” base are so intricate and fun. Plus, if you want to be as extra as Katie, you can do the white detailing in glow-in-the-dark polish for a fun little party trick.
Red, White, & Green
Can’t decide between red and green? Get them both! This one is pretty simple to recreate at home as there are no complicated designs or accessories. The range of greens mixed with red and beige will be super fun in the days leading up to Christmas day. We recommend pairing this look with some gold jewelry to accentuate the colors.
O Christmas Tree
While this look includes a few trees on each nail, the nude base keeps it pretty minimal. The addition of dainty white snowflakes tops off the look to create a winter wonderland vibe. This design is perfect for Christmas, but you can totally rock it all month long if you want to spread holiday cheer all around.
Candy Cane Lane
Candy canes and anything peppermint-flavored truly indicate that the holidays are here. What better way to show your love for peppermint candies than with them on your fingertips? This design is adorably festive with the range of designs on each nail and, of course, the much-needed shimmer. You’ll definitely be craving the classic red-and-white hard candy with this nail art.
New Year’s Eve Ready
You can totally wear these anytime of the year, but the black and gold mix is perfect for any upcoming parties you have for the holiday season. With the shimmery gold lining around the nail, you’ll look festive and classy. This design is absolutely perfect for your New Year’s Eve plans. We adore the addition of the mini gold star on each nail, but you could also do a silver one or a pearl.
Classic Red
Red is an all-year-round classic color, but December definitely calls for a red moment. For a subtle and chic look, go for this French tip design. Red not your cup of tea? Switch it out for an olive green, a burgundy wine, or really any color you like. This design can be achieved very easily with your favorite polish, or you can head to the salon if you prefer.
Green Aura
Surely you’ve seen the aura nails trend and the magnetic nails trend, but this design puts the two together. This combo of greens is super fun for the holiday season. The shimmery velvet is a dream, and the center makes the look even more fun. You could try this out in other colors as well. We recommend red, gold, or silver to keep the look super festive.
Florals for Christmas
If you love a good flower nail design, then you’ll fall for this festive spin on florals. Your classic daisy flower designs can stick around for the holiday season as they become red, green, and white. This look is so adorable and original—we can’t wait to try it out this month.
We hope you’ve found your next holiday nail design and that we didn’t make it too hard to choose just one. Luckily, the holiday season is only just beginning, so there’s plenty of time to try them all.
