13 Christmas Nail Ideas for a Festive Manicure

Christmas is the season for nails that sparkle. From candy-cane stripes to gold shimmer and icy blue, a festive manicure makes every gift you wrap and every glass you raise look a little more special.

Plan ahead: a gel set booked around December 18 to 20 will last through Christmas and into New Year’s Eve. Here are the looks we love.

1. Festive Nail Art

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Playful holiday nail art, such as tiny trees, snowflakes and stripes, is perfect for parties and gift exchanges. Mix a few designs across your nails for a fun, festive set.

2. Candy Cane Art

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Candy-cane stripes are the most classic Christmas nail art. Paint a white base and add diagonal red stripes with striping tape.

3. Red and Green

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Red and green nails are pure Christmas. Alternate colors on each finger or paint a red base with green accents.

4. Classic Christmas Red

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A glossy, true red manicure is the simplest holiday look. Choose a cherry or crimson and finish with a high-shine top coat.

5. Red Nails and Candy Canes

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Red nails photograph beautifully with holiday props such as candy canes, ornaments and wrapped gifts. A deep red feels elegant, a bright red feels playful.

See also: Red Nail Ideas

6. Icy Blue and Ornaments

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Blue nails are a fresh alternative to red and green. Choose an icy or sapphire blue with a shimmer finish for a frosty, glamorous look.

7. Gift Wrap Shimmer

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Gold shimmer nails match gold ribbon and holiday packaging. Try a gold glitter accent nail with a nude or red base.

8. Red and White

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Red nails with white accents, such as tips, dots or snowflakes, are a timeless Christmas combination.

9. Champagne Toast

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A soft champagne or nude manicure looks elegant at holiday dinners. Add a sheer gold shimmer top coat for a little sparkle.

See also: Glitter Nail Ideas

10. Sparkle and Bokeh

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Shimmering nails catch festive lights beautifully. Choose a glitter or metallic polish and keep the shape medium length.

11. White Bauble Elegance

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White or pearly nails are an elegant, snowy alternative to red. Try a milky white base with silver glitter.

12. Cozy Fairy Lights

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A soft, warm manicure, such as a neutral or rose gold, is perfect for cozy nights at home with fairy lights and holiday movies.

13. New Year’s Countdown

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Extend your holiday manicure into New Year’s Eve by adding gold or silver glitter to a few nails.

How to Choose Yours

For a classic look, go red. For something modern, try icy blue or champagne. For maximum fun, mix red, green and candy-cane art.

Save your favorite Christmas look to Pinterest before your holiday appointment.

Frequently asked questions

What are classic Christmas nail colors?

Red, green, gold, silver and white are the classics. Deep burgundy, emerald and icy blue are popular modern alternatives.

When should I get my Christmas manicure?

Book gel around December 18 to 20 so it lasts through Christmas and New Year's Eve.

How do I paint candy cane nails?

Paint a white base, then use striping tape or a thin brush to add diagonal red stripes. Finish with a glossy top coat.