There’s something magical about festive season nails – that perfect blend of sparkle, color, and confidence that makes every gesture feel special.
Whether you’re clinking glasses at a holiday party or wrapping the last few gifts by the fire, a great manicure can instantly lift your mood and complete your look.
Here are my absolute favorite festive nails I’m completely obsessed with at the moment and I’m sure you’ll love them just as much as I do!
20+ Festive Nails You’ll Love
Red Glitter Almond Christmas Nails
Okay so I saw these at the nail salon yesterday and literally couldn’t stop staring. The red glitter reminds me of those cheap press-ons I used to get at CVS when I was broke in college, except these actually look expensive? Like really expensive.
Chrome Red Almond Christmas Nails
Chrome is so last year but whatever, I’m still obsessed.
Bright Red Almond Christmas Nails
Classic red but make it sharp. I did this exact color for my work Christmas party last year and spilled red wine on my white dress – at least my christmas holiday nails matched the stain, right? Actually no that’s a lie, I spilled white wine. But still.
Red nails go with everything except maybe when you’re eating spaghetti because then you look like you murdered someone. My mom taught me that. She has strong opinions about nail colors.
Holly Christmas Flowers on Light Pink Almond Nails
This pink is what I imagine ballerinas would wear for Christmas if ballerinas celebrated Christmas? The holly details are so tiny I’d probably mess them up within an hour knowing me.
But they’re gorgeous. Very cottage core meets holiday season. I keep sending this to my sister who never responds to my nail inspiration texts but whatever, her loss.
Cream Almond Nails with Red Polka Dots and Bows
Polka dots and bows together feels like too much but it works? Giving me major vintage wrapping paper vibes.
White Snowflake Almond Nails with White French Tips
White on white is so minimalist I almost missed the snowflakes at first. Had to zoom in to see them properly.
Brown Plaid Almond Nails with Bows and Polka Dots
Brown plaid for Christmas sounds wrong but looks so right. It’s giving fall energy but make it December?
I showed this to my boyfriend and he said it looks like his flannel shirt which wasn’t the compliment he thought it was. Men don’t understand pattern mixing. The bows save it from being too masculine though. Barely.
Gingerbread Man Almond Nails in Brown
Tiny gingerbread men on your nails? Yes please. My inner child is screaming.
Emerald Green Almond Nails with Bows
Green nails still feel weird to me but this emerald is gorgeous. Very rich lady at the country club vibes.
Christmas Colored Dot Short Nails
Short nails are so practical but I always feel like I’m missing something when mine aren’t long. These dots are cute though – very confetti party vibes.
My coworker does her own christmas holiday nails and they always look like this, kind of random but in a good way. I’m too impatient to do dots myself. I’d mess up the spacing and then have to start over and then give up.
Almond French Tip Nails with Red Bows
French tips but make them Christmas. The bows are perfectly placed which means I could never do this myself.
Pink Almond Christmas Nails with Snowflakes
Pink and snowflakes shouldn’t work together but here we are. It’s like winter princess meets christmas holiday nails and I’m not mad about it. The snowflakes look hand-painted which probably means they cost more than my grocery budget but whatever.
Sometimes you need to treat yourself. My grandmother would hate these – she thinks pink nails are for teenagers – but my grandmother also wears beige everything so her opinion doesn’t count.
Cute Pink Almond Christmas Nails with Snowflakes and Reindeers
Reindeers AND snowflakes? Someone went all out here. It’s a lot but in the best way possible. Like Christmas exploded on your fingertips. I sent this to my five-year-old niece and she texted back just heart eyes emojis.
FAQ:
What is the hottest nail trend right now?
This season, the hottest trend is all about effortless glamour – think chrome shimmer, velvet textures, and festive christmas nails with metallic accents. Everyone’s embracing nail looks that feel cozy yet striking, making them perfect for the holiday season.
What color nails for December?
December calls for warmth and shine! Rich reds, deep greens, champagne gold, and icy silvers are top picks. For a softer vibe, try festive season nails with creamy neutrals or simple festive nails with a glossy top coat.
What is the rich girl nail trend?
The “rich girl” trend focuses on clean, understated polish – milky beige, pale pink, or soft caramel tones. To keep it seasonal, add a subtle festive nail art accent, like a gold foil line or delicate sparkle.
What color nails are best for a holiday?
Classic shades like burgundy, emerald, and ruby red never fail. If you prefer a twist, festive holiday nails in champagne shimmer or frosty silver bring a luxe, polished touch that works for any celebration.
What nails do guys find hot?
Believe it or not, it’s not always about bold colors. Simple, elegant designs like festive french nails or short red manicures often stand out most – they’re timeless, confident, and effortlessly sexy.
How to get lip gloss nails?
Go for a clear or blush-toned base with a super-glossy top coat. Add a hint of shimmer for dimension — a perfect addition to any festive nail designs.
What is a milky manicure?
A milky manicure is a sheer, creamy white finish that looks natural but polished. It pairs beautifully with festive nail ideas like tiny snowflake art or pearl accents for a modern holiday twist.
What color nails should a 40-year-old woman wear?
Any color that makes you feel confident! But neutrals, deep plums, or festive christmas nail designs in metallic tones tend to look especially refined and chic.