Not to put the sleigh before the reindeer, but we’re of the mind that it’s never too early to start thinking about the holidays—especially when it comes to planning a festive manicure.
Whether you’re looking for some simple DIY options, prefer an intricate design and impressive nail art or love any excuse to wear glitter on your nails, we’ve got you covered.
Behold 25 holiday nails for anyone, no matter your level of skill or spirit.
It doesn’t get more classic than a set of red and gold stripes. Plus, this is one design you can do at home. All you need is polish and some painter’s tape.
Use a blend of deep emerald tones to create the illusion of a forest of firs on your tips.
Same idea, but with a cherry red instead.
Can’t steady your hands enough to paint? You can always try some pearl stick ons.
We love a tiny hand-painted tree for those who prefer subtlety.
One can never go wrong with some gold and glitter.
Take a cue from Mari and try a calming white and pale grey palette.
When French tips meet a red candy cane stripe.
We love the way the festive colors and gold foil pop against the white base.
Like the pearl accents above, these crystals can be glued on for an instant design.
Don’t forget the holly (jolly) berries.
Can’t decide on the exact design? We love this mish mosh of festive lights, stars, snowflakes and Santa Clause.
Deck your nails with boughs of holly, fa la la la la la la la la.
Green and gold: an underrated holiday duo.
Sometimes simple is best—especially when you’re in a time crunch. This sparkly mani is as easy as it gets; just apply a glittery polish to bare nails.
Here’s a chic transitional manicure to fall into winter.
Wear it now, wear it later, wear it whenever. Red hearts are festive, no matter the time of year.
Like the right house wine, we love a red blend.
Chef’s kiss for this mistletoe design.
A good option for shorter nails thanks to the vertical lines and neutral base color.
We adore the simplicity of having just a single ornament per fingernail.
File this under intermediate nail art: Bejewel the base of your half-moon manicure with gold studs.
Nude or red flowers, we leave that to you. Just make sure to outline the petals with thin black lines to make them stand out.
For when an all red mani feels too predictable add some wavy lines to the mix.
Use a dotting tool (or the tip of a ballpoint pen) to create these shiny little ornaments.
