True Winter color lovers naturally tend to like colors like royal purple and ruby red. This season, even people who like neutral nail colors have a lot of choices. If you like cool tones, you’ll be surprised by how many different kinds of white polish there are, just like how snow glistens before it melts. Gray shades have the same depth, but rich burgundy shades, from cranberry to deep berry and merlot, offer a lot of variety. Valeriia Telemaniuk, a world champion nail artist and beauty teacher, told Byrdie that winter brings back classic nail styles. French manicures, layered grays, cool blues, and deep reds, both bright and subtle, will be big this season.
Nails with Chocolate Ganache
Ganache nails are taking the place of brownie-inspired colors as a more luxurious winter favorite. Sofiia Mazur, a nail artist and teacher, says this color is a deep, velvety brown that looks like melted dark chocolate. Colors like Red Iguana’s Ganache gel or Dazzle Dry’s Fringe are perfect for this look. The color is warm and rich, which makes it great for cold weather or anyone who likes understated elegance. Ganache gives off a quiet sense of confidence on the nails and goes well with gold jewelry, neutral outfits, or classic black outfits.
Berry colors that are soft and muted
This season, deeper, more grounded colors are becoming more popular. Juanita Huber-Millet, the founder and creative director of Townhouse Salons, says that more and more people are choosing espresso browns, soft mauves, and muted berry tones. These colors are warm and sophisticated at the same time, and they can be worn every day. Muted berries are a classy alternative to brighter reds because they add depth without making the manicure look too busy.
Ocean Blue Light
Another color that stands out this winter is a light ocean blue with a pearlescent finish. Amy Ling Lin, a nail professional, says these colors are calm, bright, and uplifting. Shades like Sundays Studio’s L09 add a nice contrast to the darker colors of winter. The soft pearl sheen catches the light in a soft way, which gives it depth and shine. This color has a calming energy that feels modern and light while still looking polished.
Gray Neutrals That Are Cool
Cool gray is quickly becoming a winter neutral that people love. Coca Michelle, OPI’s Global Ambassador, says that this color gives a chic and sophisticated look that goes well with winter clothes. It also makes jewelry look great, especially for people who like to mix metals. OPI’s Peace of Mined, Case of Glamnesia, and Suzi Talks with Her Hands are all great choices that give you a polished, flexible look.
Dark Navy Blue
People are saying that deep navy is the best color to reset after the holidays. It feels nice and helps the transition from winter to the New Year. This color is easy to wear and can be worn in many different ways. It works for both special occasions and everyday office wear. OPI Nail Lacquer in Less is Norse, Havin’ a Candy Ol’ Time, and Suzi & the Arctic Fox are all good choices. They all have rich navy colors that are still easy to wear.
The Rise of Almost-Nothing Nails
In the winter, people often want things to be clear and calm, which is why barely-there nail colors are so popular. Huber-Millet says that soft milky colors, cool neutrals, and soft pastels are becoming more popular. Colors like Coconut Milk, Glazed Marshmallow, and Milkshake from Townhouse’s Flawless Collection feel clean and refreshing, like a fresh start after the darker colors of fall. Adding French tips—either classic or modern—to pink-toned neutrals gives them a timeless look.
Deep Red Warm
A deep, warm red is still a winter staple. Amy Ling Lin says this color is warm, stylish, and quietly strong. It makes you feel cozy right away in the winter, but it still looks polished and festive. This color goes from everyday elegance to holiday moments without any trouble. It gives off a sense of style without being too heavy.
Finishes that are earthy and metallic
Metallics that are inspired by nature are also in style this winter. Sofiia Mazur talks about colors like bronze, clay gold, and olive chrome, which are often used with matte or stone-textured finishes. These colors softly reflect light, giving off a sophisticated, lived-in glow that feels rich without being too shiny. Earthy metallics look great as full coverage or subtle accents, just like the fall collection from Balmain and other fashion shows.
Nails in Black Cherry
Black cherry nails add a touch of drama by mixing deep black with a hint of red warmth. Mazur says that this balance makes the color look classy and easy to wear. Black cherry has long been a favorite of celebrities and fashion icons. It goes well with both formal and casual clothes, like oversized blazers and vintage denim. It is still a popular winter drink that comes back every year.
Polish that is crisp white
Crisp white is coming back strong this winter. After Pantone’s Cloud Dancer announcement, there has been a lot of demand for pure white colors like Mineral Fusion Ice Breaker. This bright, modern color makes you think of snowy landscapes, warm knits, and cold mornings. White used to be thought of as only a winter color, but now it’s a big part of winter minimalism.
Gray and lavender colors
Gray-lavender is a cool gray color with a hint of purple. It looks great in the winter. Telemaniuk says that shorter days and cooler weather naturally draw people to colors like this that aren’t too bright. Gray-lavender is a great polish choice for the colder months because it feels modern, elegant, and versatile. It’s simple but stylish.
