11 winter nail trends that will dominate this season
When it comes to winter nail designs there’s a lot to unpack. The season sees us through cosy weekends, moody evenings, cold snaps, Christmas, New Years, fireworks and a fresh start in Jan, which means there's a whole load of directions you could go in.
Of course there’s the classics: deep reds and sparkle (both of which are back for another year), but we've also seen some curveballs enter the arena, with dark aura nails and some offbeat textures you probably wouldn’t expect for winter.
“We’re seeing a lot of influence from high fashion and street style. From metallic accents to bold wine shades, there’s a clear crossover between what we’re wearing and what’s trending in nails,” notes Tinu Bello, A-list manicurist, and senior Mylee ambassador. “People are also loving the tactile, experimental nature of 3D nail art, it’s a way to bring something a little more fun and creative to their everyday look,” she adds.
We tapped up the top manicurists to get their take on what manis to watch out for once winter hits. So, here’s the 11 winter nail trends to know…
Eggnog nails
If you’re still thinking about summer’s butter yellow nails, we have good news – you can still wear them as part of your winter nails rotation. This season’s evolution of the trending shade is eggnog, toning down the yellow hue slightly to give a creamier finish reminiscent of the festive drink. Among all the darker, moodier tones we usually see during winter, this is an unexpected standout this season.
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Celestial winter nails
Now that the clocks have officially gone back, it’s getting darker much sooner. While you’re trying to minimise the impact of SAD, why not try to see the beauty in the seasonal change via celestial-inspired nails. Think inky black or midnight blue sky as the base peppered with golden stars, moons and planets. The night is feeling brighter already.
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Firework nails
What would autumn be without fireworks? Ahead of 5th November, you’ll probably have already heard some pre-emptive bangs and whizzes around your neighbourhood. Firework nails bring the awe-inspiring colours to your next manicure, looking like they’re exploding from your nail beds. Catch the light with a shimmering mix of cat-eye nail polishes or a black base topped with glitter that can be easily applied yourself at home.
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Chrome nails
“This winter, we’re seeing a real shift toward silver chrome and metallic finishes. It’s all about the sleek, high-shine look that adds an edgy, futuristic touch to any manicure,” Tinu says. “Silver nails offer versatility. You can play with finishes, from super-glossy to matte, or mix up designs by adding embellishments or texture.” While chrome nails have reigned all year long, for winter, as the colder months come in we’re opting for festive colours – think holly red, pine green and celebratory champagne in time for New Year’s Eve.
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Glitter nails
If there were ever a time for sparkle, it’s winter when we need the extra pick-me-up. “They’re the perfect way to spice up a plain manicure and are ideal for the festive season. It’s the one time of year where dressing up extravagantly from head toe is acceptable and I love that. You can keep it chic and simple or go over the top and it won’t hurt,” says nail artist Iram Shelton. “Party season is incoming, so don’t be afraid to opt for glitter. If you’re not ready to do a full mani, go for a French tip instead. Let’s face it, Glitterball nails never made anybody feel sad,” concurs Michelle.
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Winter jelly nails
Sheer jelly textures have been trending for a while, particularly over summer, but they translate beautifully to winter nails and can add extra interest to a mani. “Winter jelly is massive,” notes Michelle, who credits Hailey Bieber with some of the continued hype. “Hailey seems to be dominating nail trends, she recently was seen sporting a brown jelly and a blue-black variation. Get the look from home using the Essie Jelly gloss range,” says Michelle.
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Cat-eye velvet nails
Still on the texture train, velvet is trending thanks to advancements in cat-eye manicures, which tap up metallic polishes and a magnet to create the soft, cosy illusion. “Cat-eye nails are literally taking over my social feeds and they’re a huge hit amongst my celebrity clientele,” says Michelle. “I did a chocolate velvet cat-eye mani for Simone Ashley’s appearance at Glamour’s Women Of The Year awards, this was chic, and understated. Cat-eye nails are a unique type of nail design, initially inspired by the shimmering narrow line on the nail, which looks a bit like a cat-eye. It’s such a unique effect that often looks multi dimensional, almost as if it moves around on the nail. The line through the nail has evolved and I feel like the possibilities are endless with cat-eye manicures,” she says.
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3D nails
If you want to take things up a level with your winter nails, quite literally, you need to go 3D. “3D nails have exploded in popularity and are set to keep growing as nail techs push their creative boundaries," says Tinu. “From intricate raised designs to gemstone-like accents, 3D nails add dimension and texture that really make your nails a statement piece. The evolution of nail technology has made these styles more accessible, and the possibilities are endless,” she says. Iram agrees: “textured nails and 3D effect art is still huge,” she insists. “The take on chunky knits for your nails is a cute idea and can be incorporated into many wintery designs. Think snowflakes and ribbons,” she says.
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Dark aura winter nails
Aura nails have been on the scene for a few seasons, but they're getting a darker spin for winter. “Watch out for Dark Aura era – yes I’m sorry, I seem to be on repeat, but aura nails are still a huge request amongst my clientele,” says Michelle. “For winter, layer your aura over a darker base, maybe a navy, a dark brown, or a blackberry,” says Michelle.
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Bow winter nails
Ribbon nails, or “bow nails” are a mega trend in their own right. In fact, bow nails have grown to become one of the most popular nail arts of 2025. Their popularity will continue into winter, but we’ll see some seasonal twists including summer’s favourite pattern: polka dot. Sheer pinks and coquette creams will share the stage with deep blacks and reds.
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Fresh start nails
Going into January, we’ll see a hard reset from some who will want to take a break from burgundies and glitter in favour of a clean slate. Nearly naked nails will always be popular, but we’re pegging rosehip oil nails as the leading shade to kick off 2026. Think super shiny and healthy looking nails with a hint soft pink.
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