I’ve officially appointed myself Who What Wear’s resident nail trend expert. (Cue confetti!) While I do love overall trend forecasting and often find myself researching emerging aesthetics across categories, there’s just something about nail art design that makes my heart flutter.
I suspect this is because nail art trends often pave the way for overall beauty trends. After all, it’s much easier (and, AhemIn comparison, say changing out your nail polish by dying your hair or trying out the perfect eyeliner look (it’s a lot less than promised). So if there’s an interesting color story or style on the scene, you’ll probably see it popping up as a nail art trend first.
As the weather gets cooler and we get ready for the holidays (how is October already over?!), I’ve been on the lookout for those underrated nail art designs ready to dominate the winter months. Using my keen eye—and, of course, the help of my trusty top manicurist—I’ve compiled a list of 11 ultra-fashionable predictions. Keep scrolling—plenty of winter nail art inspiration ahead.
Burgundy
No, burgundy nails are not going anywhere. While they’re definitely a trend this fall, celebrity manicurist Tom Bachik predicts more oxblood shades will be popping up in the coming months. “I think deep burgundies and reds are going to be the hottest colors this winter,” he said. They’re moody, cozy and a little bit vampy if you ask me – a beautiful trifecta in winter.
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OPI
Nail polish – what is it called?
Essie
Nail polish – evil
Deborah Lippman
Gel Lab Pro Nail Polish – Single Ladies
cat eye manis
“Plan to see a lot of glitter this holiday season,” Bacik added. Of course, sparkly manis are a classic choice for the holidays, but pros predict more than just sophisticated decor. “Look for glazes and mirror powders that have become more intense, such as magnetic and glitter gels,” Bacik says. Whatever you call them – magnetic manicures, glitter gels, velvet nails, or cat eye manis— expect these glassy, three-dimensional manis to soar this season.
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circus colors
Halo – Beige Magnetic Nail Polish
Yilanpu cosmetics
Sugar Plum – Deep burgundy magnetic nail polish
Yilanpu cosmetics
Magnetic wand manicure tool
3D metal
Speaking of 3D looks, experts say textured 3D Manis will continue to be eye-catching, especially with chrome flecks and metallic decals like the moon and stars. “I love nail decals! They’re so easy. If you have trouble applying, use super-fine tweezers and bend the nail decal first,” adds celebrity manicurist Julie Kandalec. Use a neutral polish as your base for a cool negative space manicure.
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kiss impression
No need for glue to press nails – sundress
lost angel
Nail extensions – what you want
Plaid and tweed
Kandelic also loves plaid and tweed designs for the festive season. “They’re fun and they don’t have to be perfect because the tweed braid isn’t perfect by any means,” she said. So while celebrity manicurist Bettina Goldstein’s plaid nails do look flawless, don’t be afraid if your at-home manicure doesn’t look quite as pristine. Those imperfect details add texture and character! If you can’t tell, I’m obsessed with this cozy trend.
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Sally Hansen
Beautiful plaid nail strips
edgeU
Perfect Gel Nail Cover – New Tweed
Sally Hansen
Sally Hansen Plush Coat Nail Polish, 800 Tweedy
cold flash
“Dramatic jewel tones and icy shimmer” will dominate this winter, says CND co-founder and style director Jan Arnold. Think glamorous shades that mimic falling snowflakes, like this frosted blue shade. These shades have an ethereal feel (think ice princess or snow angel) and pair perfectly with sparkling jewelry or pearl highlighters.
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london town
Lakur Nail Polish – Chrome Glaze
Olives and June
Nail polish – BP
Emerald green
Jewel tones like emerald usually quickly become popular once the holidays arrive, but “with the upcoming evilwe’re going to see a lot of emerald green,” Kandalek said. “It’s the perfect shade for winter because it’s a classic holiday color and will also be trending when it releases. Elphaba?
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Hermes
Les Mains Hermès Nail Polish-Scottish Green
OPI
Nail Polish – Peppermint Bark and Bites
bubblegum pink
certainly, evil– Inspired Manis must also contain a touch of Glinda. “along with evil“For those who prefer Glinda to Elphaba (like me),” Kandalec quipped. Let’s rethink everything we know about the winter color story.
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OPI
OPI X Wicked nail polish two-piece set
Chanel
Varnish – Xia Meng
animal print
Kandalek also predicts “textured animal prints such as crocodiles, snakeskin and turtles.” I would also add cowhide – a chic black or brown cow print will look great on any winter outfit. Goldstein shows off amazing tutorial hereshe swears it’s not hard to replicate at home. “The key to perfection is the imperfection of this design,” she wrote. However, no matter which animal print you choose, it will add an attractive 3D element.
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cold house
Chill Tips Animal House Pressure Nail Set
Static nails
tortoise shell
Highlight nude color
Take a cue from Bachik – the naked mani is here to stay. “I think nudity will play an important role, even during the holidays,” he declared. “People are now loving ultra-clean, high-shine nudes because it’s a very chic and elegant color alternative.” You can even forego polish altogether if you want; a simple polish and polish can work wonders.
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So smooth
Easy Nail Buffer and Shine
Gucci
Glossy nail polish (shade: Annabel Rose)
jewel tones french
Bachik also recommends using jewel tones to elevate your classic French manicure. Think ruby, royal blue, amethyst purple or emerald green tips. You can even mix and match different shades if you want. Look how beautiful these purple and blue half moons look side by side!
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Essie
Nail polish – please housekeeper
OPI
Nail Polish – Purple with Purpose
kiss impression
Advanced push-on manicure – Vision
Gothic Fantasy
Finally, Arnold says “epic fantasy” nails will reach fever pitch this season. Now, you can master this trend in a few ways: you can go the minimalist route and opt for textured dragon scales (which also incorporates the animal print trend), or you can stick to medieval reds, saffron, navy, and green. (think Chappell Roan’s VMA makeup look.) Be sure to match at least two shades to really capture the medieval fantasy vibe.
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Hermes
Les Mains Hermès nail polish-yellow devil
I’ve never had
Press-on manicure set – black tip
