Chilly weather calls for a shakeup in your nail color game, with rich and sparkling jewel tones, crisp and wintry metallics, cozy neutrals, and moody saturated shades taking center stage. The season’s also a great time to experiment with fun finishes like chrome, cat eyes, or matte topcoats that double down on the seasonal vibes. Bookmark this roundup of the best winter nail colors and keep it handy every time you head to the salon.
1. Winter Berry Nails
Berry-inspired nails are a rite of passage once the weather turns chilly. Forever classy, this vibrant hue brings in the right amount of pop and drama while still feeling luxe.
2. Evergreen Winter Nails
This dark green color takes inspiration from evergreen trees, which never fade even in the coldest temps. There’s a brightness to this shade of green that feels crisp and wintry.
3. Red Matte Chrome
We love a red nail during winter, and you can’t go wrong with any shade you choose. Add a matte chrome top coat, though, and you’ll definitely be sporting a head-turning mani.
4. Champagne Pearl Nails
Keep your mani low key but still festive with this wintry manicure idea. Champagne pearl nails are a pale creamy golden color that catch the light in the prettiest way. Plus, they’re a chic way to ring in the new year.
5. Espresso Brown Nails
Brown may not be the first hue you think of for winter nail colors, but it’s been running the social circuit the last few months and is surprisingly gorgeous. A deep espresso brown feels especially fitting for the cold months, and it’ll pair perfectly with that steamy hot latte.
6. Moscow Mule Nails
Moscow mule nails are inspired not by the gin beverage, but by the shiny copper mug it’s served in. You can achieve it with a super shiny copper nail polish, or a copper chrome finish.
7. Cherry Cola Nails
Similar to dark brown but with a hint of red, cherry cola nails are the perfect winter nail color for those who want a sophisticated hue with some subtle warmth and depth.
8. Midnight Velvet Nails
Blue and winter go hand in hand, conjuring thoughts of frigid cloudless skies. This spin on a standard blue creates mesmerizing depth and is a good pick for anyone who wants to go with a cooler-toned winter manicure.
9. Winter White Nails
You can’t go wrong with winter white, and there are a surprising number of shades to choose from. From shimmery options to whites that lean creamy warm or crisp blue, play with your options to find the most flattering hue for you.
10. Bubble Bath Nails
If you prefer a neutral winter manicure that matches with literally everything in your closet, bubble bath nails are a true hero hue. They’re slightly pink for a more girlish look, and sealed with a super glossy top coat.
11. Figgy Nails
This winter nail color takes inspiration from one of the season’s favorite fruits: figs! The deep purple hue is rich and indulgent and will definitely earn you compliments wherever you wander this chilly season.
12. Stone Nails
Stone cold stone nails, which take inspiration from the earth’s own terrain, are one of the trendiest neutrals you can wear in winter. They’re a bit unexpected but still feel right.
13. Black-Green
For a seriously moody mani, opt for an almost black shade of deep, dark green. It’s dramatic and gorgeous without feeling like you’re stuck in Halloween mode.