Mani Feeling… Meh? 25 Holiday Nail Ideas That Go Beyond the Classic Red

The magic of the holidays exists in the details. Oftentimes, the smallest design choices make the biggest impact. And usually, little acts of kindness can shift someone’s mood for the better. But it’s during the festive season that this truth shines the most. From selecting your holiday decor to planning your gatherings—putting everything together is harder than it looks. (And from all the Pinterest boards we’ve been scoping, it looks pretty hard.) Of course, there’s the holiday attire as well. But luckily, your manicure can speak a thousand words. And like ornaments on a tree, fun holiday nails make all the difference.

You can choose to show them off at the dinner table or opt for something that will last through your festive food prep. Holiday nails come in all shapes and sizes, but they’re always a delight. Keep reading—the best holiday nail trends are right at your fingertips.

Featured image from our interview with Cyndi Ramirez by Belathée Photography.

25 Festive Holiday Nails Ideas

Ring in the new year with the trendiest holiday nail ideas. A pop of red or a delicate design might be just what you need to add that extra bit of magic to your holiday season. From the viral trends that are taking over TikTok to timeless classics that even your mom will compliment, ahead you’ll find all the inspo you need for festive holiday nails.

@momentswithbella brown is the perfect transitional colour for the fall to winter season ????????? #winteraesthetic #holidaytok #cozylittlechristmas #winternails2023 #winternailinspo #chocolatebrownnails #fallnailinspo ? R o c k i n A r o u n d C h r i s t m a s T r e e – phoebe • 89k

1. Cocoa

Still holding onto autumn? This cocoa shade is the perfect transitional color to take you from fall into the festive season. They’re made for cradling mugs of hot chocolate—spiked or otherwise.

@nailsbycalliemarie its giving cool (?) girl winter #holidaynails #holidaynails2023 #holidaynailinspo2023 #almondnails #almondnailinspo #christmasnails #christmasnailinspo #christmasnails2023 #christmasnailinspo2023 #sparkle #sparklynails #cooltonesaesthetic #winternails #winternailinspo #winternails2023 #winternailinspo2023 ? Sleigh Bells (PhatCap! Trap Remix) – Ronettes

2. Ice Queen

Romanticize the sleet and snow with a slate grey manicure. Add some rhinestones for an icy, iridescent touch.

@sunnevaeinars fav szn ????? #holidaynails2023 #christmasnails2023 #winternails2023 ? winter things – audios for you

3. Party Szn

Sometimes, more is more. These glamorous, glittery nails pair well with a sequined dress and holiday party plans. All you need a disco ball.

@hayleylombard_ Not over the chrome trend. #chromenails #neutralnails #cleangirlnails #neutralchromenails #nailtrends2023 #nailideas #naildesignideas #trendynails2023 ? if u use this sound ur automatically hot – ?

4. Clean Girl Chrome

The chrome trend is still going strong. This semi-neutral shade is a versatile but eye-catching option for a lowkey look that still brings the glamour.

@racheletonkin Your sign to get red chrome nails for the Holidays????? #christmas #holidaynails #holidaynailsinspo #holidaynails2023 #redchromenails #redchrome #christmastime #holidays #holiday #holidayseason #christmasnails #christmasnailinspo ? Holly Jolly Christmas (Sped Up) – Michael Bublé & Sped Up Songs + Nightcore

5. Red Chrome

For a more festive take on the trend, go for a red chrome look. Your nails will look like laminated, freshly wrapped presents.

@aminaoui Who’s excited for holiday content ? using @GELCARE® Coconut Milk Morello ** use code AMINA to save 15% off #holidaynails #christmasnails #nailarttutorial #holidaynails2023 #candycanenails ? winter things – audios for you

6. Candy Cane Cutie

Is it weird to say that I want to take a bite out of these nails? (But actually… ) Add a candy cane swirl to your classic French and thank us later.

@maddybockett Nailed it ? #nailinspo #christmasnails2022 #nailart #chrimenails ? Snowman – Sia

7. Snow Dust

For another neutral option, try this subtle, snowy shade. The barely-there dusting makes these a new Christmas classic.

@overglowedit Easy ombré glitter tips using a makeup sponge ? #nailartvideos #summerstyle #nailarttrick ? luxurious – milo

8. Golden Glitter

For an easy DIY, this golden tip is a less messy way to indulge in glitter this holiday season.

@overglowedit A golden french mani inspired by my new jewelry collection with @Local Eclectic (link in my bio ?) #nailinspo #frenchmanicure #nailartideas #fallnails ? More Than A Woman – SG’s Paradise Edit – Bee Gees & SG Lewis

9. Starry Night

Whatever you celebrate, nothing feels more festive than adding a celestial touch. Stars make this golden French manicure stand out without being gaudy.

@connie.wi I never wanna take these off ?? #holidaynails2022 #rhinestonenails #rhinestonenailart #diynailset #diygelx #athomenails #gelxtutorial ? original sound – marianne

10. Holiday Rhinestones

These nails look like they were dusted with the sprinkles from your holiday sugar cookies. Personalize them with your own color combinations.

11. White Christmas

Whether it snows or not, guarantee yourself a white Christmas with this milky mani.

12. Mistletoe Mani

Like the cherry designs that were so trendy this summer, these mistletoe decals are a great step up to the classic French.

13. Tuxedo

Black tie events? Black nails. This tuxedo coat is a classic shade for any event you have on your holiday lineup.

14. Emerald City

Green might feel cliche for the holidays, but this deep emerald will never go out of style.

15. Plaid PJs

Matching pajamas are one of the more divisive holiday traditions. But I say embrace the season’s parade of plaid—especially since it makes for a cute nail pattern.

16. Midnight Chocolate

This neutral take on the starry pattern is like a box of chocolates with allll the options. It’s like a true Christmas treat.

17. Bows and Ribbons

I’m not the best at wrapping presents. But this manicure might make up for it.

18. Dulce de Leche

Indulge in another sweet treat with this delicious dulce de leche shade.

19. Mulled Wine

This cozy winter drink is also the inspiration for your next holiday red. It’s warm and classic for a reason.

20. Icy Blue

This light blue isn’t just a trendy shade—it also doubles as a subtle nod to the Hanukkah season.

21. Arctic Aura

A blue aura translates to a deep, pensive thinker. If you have an existential crisis on your holiday agenda, this is the mani for you.

22. Snowflakes

Snowflakes look good with any shade, but I’m partial to this cool blue French.

23. Ornaments

Like little baubles or Christmas confetti, this colorful polka dot pattern is a fun pop of holiday spirit.

24. Christmas Lights

Christmas lights might be a hassle, but you can’t deny how good they look. The same goes for your nails. Plus, if you use a glow-in-the-dark polish, they can really light up the room

25. Wreath It Up

Once you’re done decking the halls, it’s time to take the festive fervor to your nails. This delicate wreath design is a holiday fave.

30 Nail Trends for Fall—Including Our Latest Food-Inspired Obsession

More than any other season, fall is defined by style. Chunky sweaters, knee-high boots, and layers on layers (on layers). The second a crisp wind blows, I crave knitwear and scarves. And though temps are still high in many places, you can get into the autumn spirit by embracing the fall nail trends we’re obsessing over in 2023.

Fall nail trends are the easiest—and chicest—way to embrace the comfy-cozy mood. There’s something for everyone. You can take the neutral and chocolate tones route that reflects the season’s moody color palette. Or, you can go bold with textural trends like chrome and foil. Every visit to the salon is a choose-your-own-adventure affair.

Featured image from our interview with Cyndi Ramirez by Belathée Photography.

Social media is abuzz with creative coverage of fall nail trends. Inspiration abounds at every turn. With each post, there’s something new to try and autumnal vibes to capture. Whether you’re looking for manicure photos to show your nail tech or trends to DIY, ahead are the freshest fall nails to change up your look. Read on to get the best fall nail trends right at your fingertips.

1. Latte Nails

Fall is famous for PSLs and apple crisp macchiatos. Get in the spirit with a latte-inspired manicure. Coffee-glazed is the flavor of fall.

You’ve heard of cinnamon cookie butter hair and now the trend has shifted to our nails. Like a dusting of cinnamon, you’ll be seeing this reddish hue everywhere.

3. Fall French

Get in the fall spirit with a subtler way of embracing the chocolate-hued trend. Let the season inspire your favorite French tips with a little autumnal motif.

4. Mustard

Mustard is a timeless fall tone. If you’ve never tried it on your fingertips, now is your chance.

5. Two-Toned Tangerine

Like fall foliage, orange shines this season. This two-tone take lets you mix it up with a more subdued color for a subtle, seasonal look.

6. Tangerine Tips

Another way to get your fix of orange is to try tangerine French tips. Adding a hint of orange detailing goes a long way without it feeling too Halloween-inspired.

7. Matte Manis

Whatever color you fancy, why not make it matte? Matte is having its comeback this year and makes any color feel fresh for fall.

8. Mixed Matte

Not quite ready to give up the gloss? Try pairing a mix of matte and glossy polish.

9. Slate Sky Grey

If you think grey is boring, think again. You’ll be seeing this muted tone everywhere this fall.

10. Glazed Black

The glazed nail trend isn’t going anywhere. Ring it in for fall by updating the classic black mani with a glazed shine.

11. Clear Chrome

Combine the glazed look with the chrome craze and what do you get? Clear chrome. It’s a fresh take on the classic clear gloss—and we can guarantee the unique will be trending all throughout the season.

12. Chrombre

Half chrome, half whatever else you want. Chrome and ombre are another hot take on the chrome trend.

13. Glitter Ombre

Another ombre interpretation: glitter. This is a more understated way to do glitter this fall. If you’re coming down from your glittery summer festival nails, this is one way to do it.

14. Gold Foil

Adding gold foil to your fall nails adds dimension through texture and leaf-like adornments.

15. Gothic Glam

For those who can’t wait for spooky season. Add some glamor to your gothic look with decals and pops of color.

A metallic hue is a creative and eye-catching way to update any shade. From silver, brass, and gold to metallic brights—a little extra shine will give your fall nails some edge.

17. Starry Nights

Celestial manis, à la Practical Magic, are all the rage this season. And with Mercury in retrograde, we’ll do anything we can to get the stars on our side.

18. Plum Purples

A deeper, darker spin on the milky lavenders and pale purples that were hot this summer.

19. Wine

Goodbye rosé—it’s time to celebrate Pinot season. As you switch out your summer drinks, match your manicure with a swap from light pink to red wine.

20. Maroon

Like the Taylor Swift song, you can’t go wrong with a deep maroon. It’s my moody fall shade of choice.

21. Classic Red

A bold, classic red never goes out of style. Pair it with a rouge lip and you’ve got the ultimate autumn glam.

22. Tortoiseshell

Tortoiseshell is a fun fall texture. This autumnal pattern mixes your favorite fall hues like orange, brown, and black for a moody, edgy vibe.

23. Mushrooms

No need to go foraging for mushrooms, they’re all right here. This forest favorite is one of our favorite fall nail trends that you’ll be seeing everywhere. Fungicore? Definitely in season.

24. Olive Green

Olive green is one of the “it” colors for fall, and it’s one we love year after year. The earthy neutral is a bold, but muted, choice.

25. Martini Mani

For an even more fun take on the olive trend, spice up your mani with a martini theme—extra dirty.

26. Venom

Another one for spooky season. This venom-inspired webbing is creepily cool.

27. Pre-Winter White

Whoever said you can’t wear white after Labor Day wasn’t talking about your manicure. An all-white look can carry you from fall into winter (and beyond). Bonus points if you choose a glazed version of a milky manicure.

28. Minimal Manis

Pair this minimal mani with your well-tailored, classic fall wardrobe. Go for a traditional French or even just a clear gloss. It’s simple and undeniably chic.

29. Natural Nudes

Fall nail trends span the spectrum of simple and statement-making. Another example of the former? This natural-looking nude that pairs well with all your fall layers.

30. Mix and Match

The more colors, patterns, and textures, the better! Mix and match as many of these trends as you can for the ultimate fall nails.

34 Summer Nail Trends You’re About to See Everywhere

There’s so much to love about summer. Between the outdoor activities, al fresco dining, and beach vacations, it’s a perfect season. The only thing I could do without? Triple-digit temps. Though I do my best to brave even the hottest, sweatiest days, I always feel like summer limits my self-expression. I can’t stand to wear more than my most lightweight summer basics and I strip my beauty routine down to serums and sunscreen. But to take back my style personality, I’m going big with my summer nails.

Whether you keep your nails short or you prefer bold designs, there’s a summer nail trend for everyone. This season, the nail spectrum spans natural nudes to neons and everything in between. I’ve scoured social media to find the coolest nail trends by celebrity nail artists and crafty DIYers alike. Bookmark this page and save for summer nail inspo that you can take to the salon or try your hand at (!) yourself.

Featured image from our interview with Babba Rivera by Belathée Photography.

Barbiecore

No doubt, Barbiecore is the hottest trend of the summer. Pink is the shade, Barbie is the reason. To me, Barbiecore is a reminder to add some whimsy to your life and do something fun for your inner child. Nothing says that like all pink everything—including your summer nails.

Pink Soda

Another way to pull off the pink trend is to channel your favorite summer drinks. This glittery texture imitates the perfect fizz of a strawberry lemonade or a fun summer spritz.

Rosé All Day

Short, nude-esque nails are all the rage. (We have the quiet luxury trend to thank.) This pinkish, rosé-inspired hue is perfect for a summer vacay.

True Nude

For a truly classic look, you can’t go wrong with a glossy nude. And this summer, you’ll be seeing them everywhere.

Milky Pastel

Pastels are back, mostly in milky shades. I can already picture enjoying these candy-coated summer nails while savoring a soft serve on the beach.

Classic Red

Red hot for summer: this spicy classic. Go for a firey shade or a more tomato hue to channel the latest Italian summer trend—#TomatoGirl—for your vacation nails.

Strawberry Summer

A fun twist on a classic red nail is this easy-to-DIY strawberry look. We’re loving strawberries on everything this year—nails are no exception.

Fruit Salad

Adding fun pop art on your nails is like a low-stakes version of a cute sticker tattoo. This year, fruit salad decals are all the rage. Your mani will be the star of any potluck.

Cherry

All the best fruits are in season, and what better way to celebrate the harvest than with your summer nails? Adding a cherry detail to a French manicure (or really any other look) is a fun summer flair.

Gingham

Channel this classic summer vibe with a breezy gingham print. Inspired by picnic baskets and summer dresses, this whimsical look works in every color.

Flower Crown

Flower crowns may be passé, but flower crown nails are a fresh take on florals. Cap off a colorful French mani with a string of flower details.

Tenniscore

Tenniscore is everywhere this summer. On or off the courts, we’re channeling the preppy style this season. Give your green nails—which were trending this spring—an upgrade with this tenniscore twist.

Mermaidcore

If watching The Little Mermaid live-action at the start of summer inspired you as much as it did us, you won’t be surprised by the resurgence of mermaidcore. Anything that feels ethereal and underwater goes for this one—bonus points for glitter and iridescent sparkles.

Aquamarine

For the ultimate throwback mermaid reference, channel the beautiful beachy vibes with an aquamarine blue. You could say we’ve got a blue crush on this shade.

Sky Blue

Now that we’re out of the June gloom, the skies are finally crystal clear and your nails can follow suit. One of the most popular colors this summer is sky blue. Just head to your local salon for the proof.

Head in the Clouds

Even if the skies are clear, soft clouds on your nails are an easy DIY that makes any color even more interesting.

Stardust

This one’s for anyone who checks CoStar daily and asks everyone they meet for their star sign. Clear summer skies mean a night sky full of stars. It’s the perfect reason to add star decals to your nails.

Pearls

The world is your oyster—a truth your summer nails know well. If you’re a fan of adding 3D ornaments to your nails, pearls are an elegant way to get in on this trend. Quiet luxury meets ornate nail art. It’s the best of both worlds.

Crystals

Another opulent way to adorn your nails is to add crystals. A dusting of clear crystals will elevate even the most simple summer looks.

Gemstones

Take the crystal trend one step further with colorful gemstones. To make it even more personal, research your birthstones and use those to inspire the look.

Glitter Glam

Take it back to basics and add a glitter coat to your nails. Get the glam look without the upkeep of 3D nail jewelry.

Disco Nails

Is your disco ball your favorite piece of home décor? Do you always take a video of every disco ball you encounter on a night out? Same—and this nail trend is for us. It’s perfect for summer concerts, from Eras (hello, mirrorball) to Renaissance (disco tips!).

Stained Glass

This colorful take on the disco trend will make your nails look like stained glass. It’s funky, cool, and guaranteed to catch everyone’s eyes.

Fairycore

Fairycore is the ethereal extension of cottagecore that we’re totally here for. Exploring nature all summer long? Do it with fairy-inspired nails. Think: mossy, earthy colors with colorful accents.

Rainbow Tips

One of the biggest rainbow trends we saw this June was a subtle rainbow tip. Good news: this look is going strong all summer.

Ombre Tips

New takes on the classic French are all the rage. And while ombre hair and ombre clothing are trends of the past, a subtle ombre gradient on your nails is cool and classy.

Neon Gradients

Want to take your ombre look to the next level? Try mixing neon gradients with unexpected colors for a bold beach nail look.

Neon Edges

Another way to try neon is a neon outline around a nude nail. Balance.

Neon Texture

Textured details are a cool way to embrace 3D nails without intense upkeep and protruding nail jewelry. Neon lines and textured curves are huge this summer for a playful look.

Chrome Flame

Embrace the chrome trend and the texture trend with these chrome flame nails. Add some edge to your look while manifesting many nights spent beside outdoor fire pits.

Snakes

The snake trend is a simple DIY with a super cool result. Whether you add snake decals or just stick to embracing snake print, it’s a cool way to give the illusion of texture and add a funky print to a plain color.

Butterflies

A classic for summer. Channel afternoons at the botanical gardens with butterfly details on your nails.

Cowboy

The cowboy and western aesthetic is here to stay. Bring back cow print everything. I’m fully here for it.