12 Winter Nail Ideas for Your Next Moody Manicure

1. 3D Winter Nails

If you don’t want to go too colorful and also don’t want to stick with something too dark, this is the perfect wintry mix. Funky nail patterns and designs don’t have to stop once summer’s over. This set uses 3D builder gel to create unique chrome, dotted, airbrushed patterns. 

2. Winter Chrome Nails

Adding chrome to your favorite black, dark blue, or even brown manicure is a simple way to liven up a traditional winter manicure. Plus, nearly every nail salon now carries chrome powders, so this will be easy for you to achieve at a salon. Pro tip: have your nail artist try out different chrome finishes on different nails before they set them so you can pick which one you like best.

3. Green Aura Winter Nails

Aura nails typically refer to nails that have a center color that’s different from the background color, usually achieved with an airbrush gun. Get green aura nails like these by choosing a lighter or almost neon green shade for the center that bleeds into a darker pine green color.

4. Winter Ombré Nails

Choosing darker neutral shades in an ombré or alternating pattern can help switch up boring winter manicures. Pull out any nude, dark purple, or black shades you have lying around to emulate this look, or bring this inspiration pic to your next salon appointment and let your nail tech help you pick out the color combos.

5. Crystal Ball Winter Nails

Do you see perfect winter nails in your future? We sure do! Halloween might be over by winter time, but you can still play with deep purples and glittery hues. For this, choose a magnetic nail polish that can be manipulated into unique swirls and designs once applied.

6. Snowy Morning Nails

Find a few glitter polishes in different shades of blue if you’re doing your nails at home, then paint each nail a different color, going from lightest to darkest shades on one side. The built-in glitter will act like reflective snow that just fell overnight. 

7. Snow French Tips

Instead of dipping nails with a classic French manicure, try out this fresh take on the look. We love how this set looks like you just dipped the end of your fingernails into fresh snow. It reminds us of those ’90s holiday display windows that had spray-painted snow on them—hello nostalgia!

8. Simple Holiday Nail Art

You don’t need a different finger painted with Santa's reindeers to get into the holiday spirit; you just have to think outside the box. Try this simple, holiday-inspired manicure that features solid green nails, with one feature nail showcasing a Christmas tree design. 

9. Poinsettia Accent Nails

If you want something that’s more subtly holiday, try these red flowery-leaf nails that resemble the iconic holiday poinsettia plant. To get even more festive, try replacing the center of the red flower design with a metallic gold shade like the real plant.

10. Yuletide Bows Nail Art for Winter

Add a little flair to your usual French style by adorning your nails with metallic gold or silver bows. Every time you look at them, you’ll be reminded of your nice list.

11. Winter White Nails

The term “winter white” exists for a reason—to remind you of the pure joy that comes with the holidays. Try out this frosted white manicure to keep you in good spirits when the winter weather starts to look gray.

12. Holiday Greens Nail Art

We’ve talked a lot about subtle nail art, but the holidays are one of the best times to bring the grandeur. We love this holiday garland and wreath-inspired look that’s complete with little berry accents. You’re sure to get endless compliments on these babies—plus, they’re a great way to start conversation at your next holiday office party.