As winter sweeps in with its crisp air and cozy vibes, our nails are ready to embrace the season with open arms—or should I say, open cuticles? While autumn gave our nails a breather, it’s time to dive back into the world of color with some of the most stunning trends of the winter season. This year, nail artists and experts are predicting a palette that combines elegance with a touch of whimsy to keep our spirits high through those chilly months.
One of the standout trends this season is the rise of ‘Glazed Nails.’ Somewhere between glossy and shimmering, this style—often referred to as chrome nails—captures the light in ways that will leave you mesmerized. Nail artist Christine Doan describes them as having “finer particles that catch the light at different angles,” making them ideal for holiday parties where you want to make a statement. To get this look, consider products like Rimmel’s Super Gel Top Coat or Nails Inc.’s Glazed Treatment, which can add that pearlescent finish to any base color.
Another color making waves is ‘Dark Green.’ This shade has been trending throughout the year, with its popularity only growing as we move into winter. Iram Shelton, a resident manicurist at the Bulgari Hotel in London, notes that deep, glossy forest greens are ideal for pairing with winter’s chunky knits. Shades like Sally Hansen’s Jealous Boyfriend or Nailberry’s Viva La Vegan are perfect picks to embrace this trend.
Navy is another classic shade that’s being reimagined this winter. It’s a jewel tone that whispers luxury and timelessness. Christine Doan suggests that this season, jewel tones will take a more muted approach, leaning into neutral or grey undertones. H&M and & Other Stories offer affordable options that achieve this ultra-glossy, chic look.
Let’s not forget about ‘Brown,’ a shade that’s seeing a renaissance this winter. Whether you lean towards a dark chocolate or a lighter suede, brown has become the new neutral. Experts suggest trying shades like essie’s Odd Squad or Nails Inc.’s Caught in the Nude for a sophisticated winter look.
‘Chrome Gold’ is another trend that’s all about making a statement. Instead of flat gold, this winter is about accents that pop. Think of it as the metallic equivalent of your favorite designer bag’s hardware. Doan suggests using liquid gold-effect paints for that extra edge. Dior’s Vernis in J’adore or & Other Stories’ Golden Grace are great for achieving this effect.
For those looking to keep it classic, ‘Deep Red’ is your go-to. This shade is a perennial favorite, and this winter, it’s all about super-glossy, deep tones. Shelton advises that dark reds look great on shorter nails when topped with a glossy topcoat. Chanel’s Rouge Noir or H&M’s affordable alternative can transform your look with ease.
‘Midnight Black’ is back with a vengeance this winter, beloved for its versatility and timeless appeal. Whether matte or glossy, black works on any nail length or shape. Gucci’s Crystal Black or OPI’s Lady in Black are excellent choices for this bold statement.
While glitter can be tricky, this season’s ‘Elevated Glitter’ trend is about subtle sophistication. A glitter French tip is a chic way to wear sparkle without going overboard. Products like Nails Inc.’s Ring Light Ready HD Glitter Polish ensure a dazzling effect.
Neutrals continue to hold their ground in winter, with shades that flatter all skin tones while offering a minimalistic elegance. Look for OPI’s Bare My Soul or & Other Stories’ Roasted Walnut for a polished look.
The ‘Dark French Manicure’ is a twist on a classic, swapping pastel tips for deep reds or greens. This trend is perfect for someone wanting to try something new without straying too far from the traditional French tip.
‘Subtle Shimmers’ are having a moment, offering a festive sparkle that’s not too overwhelming. Manucurist’s Moon or Essie’s Pearly White Shimmer are ideal for adding that frosty touch.
Velvet Nails,’ or cat eye nails, bring a unique texture to the manicure game this winter. Using metallic particles and a magnet, you can create a luxe velvet effect at home with products like Nails Inc.’s Magnet Effect Polish.
For those who love a pop of color, ‘Crimson Nails’ offer a bright, bold option. True reds are festive and lively, capturing the spirit of the season. Sally Hansen’s Asap Apple or Gucci’s Goldie Red provide that perfect crimson hue.
Whether you lean towards bold, dramatic colors or soft, subtle hues, this winter’s nail trends offer something for everyone. As we embrace the festivities of the season, let your nails be the canvas for creativity and self-expression—a beautiful way to shine through the cold months.
The winter season is not just about cozy sweaters and hot chocolates, it’s also the perfect time to dive into the world of nail artistry from the comfort of your own home. Achieving trendy winter nail looks might seem daunting, but with the right tools and a bit of creativity, you can easily transform your nails into a winter wonderland. Whether you’re an experienced nail artist or a beginner, these tips will guide you through the process of creating stunning nail designs that are both trendy and festive.
Before you begin your at-home manicure, it’s essential to prepare your nails properly. Think of this as laying the foundation for a beautiful masterpiece. Start by removing any old polish with a gentle remover. Then, trim and file your nails to your desired shape. Whether you prefer a chic almond shape or a classic square, the key is to ensure that all nails are even. Once your nails are shaped, soak them in warm, soapy water for a few minutes to soften the cuticles. Pushing back or trimming the cuticles can give your nails a longer appearance, but be gentle—over-trimming can lead to infections.
Hydration is crucial during the winter months, not just for your skin but for your nails too. Dry, brittle nails can ruin your look, so ensure you moisturize your hands and nails regularly. Apply a nourishing cuticle oil and massage it into your nails and surrounding skin. This step not only keeps your nails healthy but also makes the polish application smoother. Products like Jinsoon’s Primrose + Honeysuckle Healing Cuticle Oil or Sidia’s The Hand Serum can be excellent choices to keep your skin soft and supple.
Once your nails are prepped and ready, it’s time to choose your colors. The selection of colors can make or break your manicure, so consider the trends that resonate with you. For ‘Glazed Nails,’ start with a sheer base color and finish with a chrome or pearlescent top coat. Products like Nails Inc.’s Better on Top Get Glazed Treatment will add that extra sparkle and shine to your nails. If you’re opting for the ‘Dark Green’ trend, a shade like Sally Hansen’s Jealous Boyfriend offers the perfect deep forest green that complements the winter season beautifully.
Achieving a perfect look is all about layering. Always start with a base coat to protect your nails from staining and to ensure your polish lasts longer. Apply your chosen color, ensuring each layer is thin—this helps it dry quickly and reduces smudging. Depending on the opacity of the polish, you may need two or three coats to achieve your desired intensity. Once your color is set, apply a glossy top coat for shine and to seal in your hard work. Rimmel’s Super Gel Top Coat is an excellent option for a long-lasting finish.
Nail art can add an extra flair to your winter manicure. If you’re feeling adventurous, try incorporating some subtle designs. For instance, a ‘Dark French Manicure’ can be achieved by applying a deep red or green tip to the end of your nails. Shelton’s tip of using negative space can add a modern twist to this classic look. Tools like Manucurist’s Nail Art Brush can aid in precision and help you create those sophisticated lines and curves.
Elevated Glitter and Subtle Shimmers are perfect for those holiday parties. Whether you choose to add glitter as a full nail color or a simple accent, remember to finish with a top coat to avoid chipping. A product like Nails Inc.’s Ring Light Ready HD Glitter Polish can offer that luxe, sophisticated sparkle that captures the light beautifully.
Remember that practice makes perfect. Don’t be discouraged if your first attempt isn’t flawless. Experiment with different colors, textures, and techniques to find what works best for you. Nail art is a form of self-expression, so have fun with it and let your creativity shine. By following these steps, you’ll not only achieve salon-quality results at home but also enjoy the therapeutic benefits of giving yourself a manicure.
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