Winter is a season that offers a plethora of opportunities to get creative with our nail art. This year, there are 13 exciting trends that are set to make a big splash in the world of winter nails. From the delicate and ethereal to the bold and eye – catching, these trends will have you running to the nail salon or reaching for your polish collection.
1. Frosty Tips
Frosty tips are reminiscent of the glistening snow that coats the tips of branches during winter. To achieve this look, start with a base color that represents the winter sky, like a pale blue or a soft silver. Then, using a sponge or a fine – tipped brush, apply a white or iridescent glitter polish to the tips of your nails, creating a frosty effect. It’s as if your nails have been kissed by the first snowfall, giving them a delicate and wintry charm.
2. Glitter Galore
Winter and glitter go hand in hand. This year, it’s all about going big with glitter. Choose chunky glitter in shades of ice blue, diamond white, or even holographic colors. You can apply it over a solid base color or create an ombre effect with different glitter sizes and hues. Glittery nails are perfect for adding a touch of glamour to your winter look, whether you’re attending a holiday party or just going about your daily routine.
3. Velvet Nails
Velvet nails are a luxurious and unique trend for this winter. Special velvet – textured nail polishes are available that give your nails a soft, plush appearance. Colors like deep burgundy, rich plum, or midnight black work best to create that cozy, winter – evening feel. The texture of the velvet polish adds an extra dimension to your nails, making them stand out in a subtle yet captivating way.
4. Metallic Mania
Metallic nail colors are always in style during the winter months. This year, go for bold and shiny metallics such as gold, copper, and rose gold. You can opt for a full – on metallic manicure or use metallic accents with nail art. For example, create a geometric design with metallic lines on a neutral base color or add a single metallic stripe down the middle of each nail for a modern and chic look.
5. Snowflake Designs
Snowflakes are a classic winter symbol, and they make for beautiful nail art. Use a thin nail art brush and white or light – blue polish to paint intricate snowflake patterns on your nails. You can also use nail stickers or stencils for a more precise and detailed look. Snowflake – decorated nails are a great way to embrace the winter season and add a touch of festivity to your hands.
6. Arctic Animal Prints
Inspired by the wildlife of the Arctic, animal prints like polar bear, arctic fox, and snow leopard are trending this winter. Create these prints using a combination of white, gray, and black polishes. For instance, for a polar bear print, use a white base with gray dots to mimic the bear’s fur. These prints add a fun and playful element to your nail art.
7. Ice – Inspired Ombre
An ice – inspired ombre is a stunning way to capture the essence of winter on your nails. Start with a light – blue base color at the cuticle and gradually blend into a darker shade, like navy or deep turquoise, towards the tip. You can also add a touch of glitter or a frosty top coat to enhance the icy effect. This ombre technique gives your nails a cool and mesmerizing look, as if they’re made of melting ice.
8. 3D Art
Take your nail art to the next level with 3D elements. This can include adding small jewels, beads, or even tiny snow – like crystals to your nails. You can create a 3D snowman, a winter landscape, or a cluster of 3D snowflakes. While this trend requires a bit more skill and patience, the results are truly breathtaking and will make your nails the center of attention.
9. Gemstone – Inspired
Winter is a time when gemstones seem to shine even brighter. Nail colors inspired by gems like amethyst, sapphire, and topaz are popular. These rich, jewel – toned colors add a touch of elegance and luxury to your nails. You can also use actual gem – shaped nail stickers or rhinestones to enhance the gemstone effect.
10. Cable – Knit Look
Bring the cozy feeling of a cable – knit sweater to your nails. Using a nail art pen or a thin brush, create cable – knit patterns with a neutral – colored polish, such as cream or taupe. You can also add a bit of glitter or a metallic thread effect to make the design more interesting. This trend gives your nails a warm and inviting look, perfect for the cold winter days.
11. Negative Space Designs
Negative space nail art is still going strong this winter. Leave parts of your nails unpainted to create interesting and modern designs. For example, you can create a winter scene with a snow – covered tree on one side of the nail and leave the rest of the nail bare. This trend allows for creativity and a unique, minimalist look.
12. Candy Cane Stripes
Candy canes are a beloved symbol of the holiday season. Recreate their iconic red and white stripes on your nails. You can use striping tape for a clean look or free – hand the stripes with a small nail art brush. This simple yet festive design is sure to get you in the holiday spirit.
13. Nordic Patterns
Nordic or Scandinavian – inspired patterns, such as geometric shapes, reindeer, and traditional Nordic knots, are making a comeback this winter. These patterns often feature bold colors like red, black, and white. Incorporate them into your nail art for a stylish and culturally inspired look that pays homage to the winter traditions of the Nordic countries.
In conclusion, this year’s winter nail trends offer a wide range of options to suit every style and personality. Whether you prefer a subtle and elegant look or a bold and extravagant design, there’s a trend for you to embrace and show off during the winter season. So, get creative and let your nails be a canvas for the beauty of winter.
