15 Trending December 2024 Nail Colors and Designs You Need to Try
Explore the top nail colors and creative designs perfect for December 2024, mixing festive flair, trending shades, and runway-inspired styles.
15 Best December 2024 Nail Colors and Designs to Try Right Now
December is the perfect time to refresh your manicure routine with new shades and creative designs. As winter sets in and the holiday season picks up, nail colors tend to get richer, bolder, and a little more decadent. This year, December’s trending nail colors blend classic shades, runway-inspired hues, and unexpected design elements—so whether you love deep reds, icy metallics, gem-inspired tones, or a touch of sparkle, there’s something here for everyone. In this guide, we break down the top 15 December 2024 nail color and design ideas, complete with tips for personalization and achieving lasting results.
1. Crystal and Maroon Nails
Maroon nails are making a huge statement for both fall and winter 2024. Deep, wine-inspired tones feel luxurious and seasonal, and they look perfect paired with delicate crystal accents for a bit of party-ready glamour. Consider layering a maroon polish with rhinestone or gem decals at the cuticle or tip for a modern, minimalistic sparkle that feels chic and festive.
- Why try it: Maroon flatters every skin tone and crystals elevate your look instantly.
- Pro tip: Use a glossy top coat over decorations to seal everything in and prevent snagging.
2. Snowflake Nails
Capture the spirit of the season with a snowflake-themed nail design. Snowflake nails typically feature neutral or sheer bases—think milky white, creamy nude, or a delicate pink—with hand-painted or sticker snowflakes and a dusting of fine glitter for subtle shine. Glittery French tips with snowflakes are a sophisticated alternative that lasts well into January, making them perfect for long-wear manicures.
- Opt for soft, shimmery polishes that reflect light like fresh snow.
- Combine classic and geometric snowflakes for extra interest.
3. Red Wine December Nails
Deep, wine-inspired reds never go out of style in winter. Shades like OPI’s “Malaga Wine” or Olive & June’s “Obsessed” are perennial favorites because their richness pairs well with cozy knits and festive cocktail hours. For extra dimension, try layering with a matching shimmer topcoat or tiny gold flecks. These shades look equally stunning on short or long nails.
- Red wine tones are universally flattering and bring warmth to your look.
- They’re ideal for both day and evening events in December.
4. Martini Nails
The martini nail design trend is playful, tongue-in-cheek, and an instant conversation starter at any holiday gathering. Designs can be literal—martini glasses painted on accent nails—or abstract, with olive-green tips and gold linework to reference the classic cocktail. Hailey Bieber recently rocked this trend, giving it A-list status. If you prefer minimalist looks, try a single martini-inspired detail on an otherwise neutral set.
- Ideal for party season and anyone craving something unique.
- Combine with metallic touches for a festive finish.
5. Rhinestone Nails
It’s the season to stand out, and rhinestone-accented nails take December glam to the next level. From simple, scattered crystals to all-out sparkly statements, rhinestones look best placed over pale pinks, nudes, or even bold colors like red or navy. For longer wear, ask your nail tech to use gel to secure the gems. Keep your cuticles ultra-clean for a crisp, modern finish even with maximum bling.
- Perfect for celebrations and events.
- Mix and match sizes for added dimension.
6. Gold Drip Chrome
Gold drip chrome nails are edgy yet elegant, merging molten metallics with sculptural nail art. The look features a base French tip or solid neutral, topped with flowing “drips” of gold chrome gel or powder, creating a 3D, futuristic effect. This trend is gaining popularity in December but promises to stay strong into the next year for those who love an avant-garde touch.
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- The 3D gold effect gives nails a luxe, trend-forward edge.
- Pair with minimalist jewelry to highlight your mani.
7. Red Ombré Nails
If classic red feels overdone, try a red ombré effect. This gradient manicure blends multiple shades of red—think crimson, berry, and pink—across one nail or several. To intensify the holiday energy, add a layer of chromatic powder or subtle glitter at the tips. Ombré nails offer a modern twist on tradition and are an easy way to make your manicure feel customized and special.
- Experiment with darker bases faded into lighter tips (or vice versa).
- A chrome finish adds extra seasonal sparkle.
8. Black and White Nails With Pearls
For a sophisticated take on festive nails, black and white color blocking with pearl accents is both timeless and current. The pearl embellishment trend is everywhere right now—incorporate it as a focal point or subtle detail. Ensure pearls are set in gel so they last, delivering up to two weeks of wear without falling off. The design effortlessly bridges festive glam and everyday chic.
- Mix shiny and matte polishes for contrast.
- Focus pearls on one or two accent nails for balance.
9. Forest Green Nails
This season, deep forest green rivals red as December’s new “it” shade. The color evokes the evergreen trees of winter, adding a modern, nature-inspired twist to your nail routine. Almond-shaped nails with a high-shine topcoat amplify the chic, “rich holiday” vibe—think après-ski luxury and runway style rolled into one.
- Pair with metallic gold or silver accents for added impact.
- Flatters all nail lengths, but looks especially elegant on longer shapes.
10. Icy Blue and White Nails
Icy blues and crisp whites are the ultimate cool-toned combo for winter 2024. Reminiscent of frosty mornings, this pairing feels both refreshing and classic. Go for a pale blue solid, a frosty gradient, or a combo with white tips or snowflake art for the ultimate winter daydream nails.
- Great for January and the fresh New Year mood.
- Use iridescent glitter to mimic glistening ice.
11. Bold Single-Color Manicures
If you love a statement mani, bold, single-color polishes in saturated hues—like electric blue, iconic scarlet, or vibrant magenta—are majorly trending. These chic monochromatics give off a high-impact, editorial feel that’s polished and modern. Choose a shade that pops against your winter wardrobe or opt for a glossy finish for extra drama.
- Rich jewel tones like sapphire or amethyst blend color and sophistication.
- Vivid colors lift the mood on dreary winter days.
12. Velvet and Cat-Eye Finishes
Velvet nails and cat-eye effects use specialized magnetized polishes to create a soft, dimensional shimmer that shifts with the light. Deep, rich shades like midnight blue, forest green, and burgundy work especially well with this finish, evoking plush holiday textures. The result is a captivating, cozy look that still feels festive and a little bit mysterious.
- Ask your nail technician to use a magnetic wand for the perfect cat-eye stripe or velvet shift.
- Perfect for dinner parties and evening events.
13. Neutral and Milky White Nails
Soft, creamy neutrals—including milky white nails—are surprisingly popular this December. They offer a clean, understated alternative to stronger festive shades, echoing the look of fresh snow. Opt for off-white, ivory, or sheer vanilla polishes for manicures that look crisp but never harsh. Subtle shimmer or micro-glitter can add a tasteful touch of seasonal fun.
- Easy to match with any outfit, day or night.
- Cream finishes keep the look soft and wearable.
14. Peach Fuzz
Pantone’s Color of the Year, “Peach Fuzz,” brings peachy warmth to nails for December 2024. This playful, inviting hue is everywhere in fashion and now translating into beauty trends. Peach fuzz can be worn as a solid shade for a hint of optimism or combined with abstract art for a contemporary twist. It’s a great transition color between seasons and instantly brightens up a winter palette.
- Perfect for those who prefer subtle pops of color.
- Looks great as an accent on a graphic or geometric design.
15. Animal Prints: Tortoise Shell
Tortoise shell patterns offer vintage elegance with a modern edge for December nails. This trend incorporates warm brown, amber, and gold-hued spots in swirling, abstract placements. It’s sophisticated, versatile, and neutral enough to pair with every holiday outfit—no wonder it’s topped nail art trend lists this season.
- Try mixed patterns on accent nails for an editorial look.
- Combine with gold foil or metallic stripes for added glam.
December Nail Colors Comparison Table
| Nail Trend | Shade/Style | Best For | Unique Touch |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crystal and Maroon | Deep Maroon + Gems | Evenings, Parties | Crystal Accents |
| Snowflake Nails | Milky White, Pale Pink | Winter, Holidays | Glitter French Tip |
| Red Wine | Rich Burgundy | Dinners, All Month | Gold Flecks |
| Martini Nails | Olive Greens, Gold | Party Season | Martini Glass Art |
| Rhinestone | Clear, Pink, Metallic | NYE, Glam Events | Mixed Rhinestones |
| Gold Drip Chrome | Gold on Neutral/White | Trendsetters | 3D Chrome Finish |
| Red Ombré | Gradient Red Shades | Classic With a Twist | Chrome Topper |
| Black & White Pearls | Black, White, Pearls | Chic, Minimalist | Pearl Accents |
| Forest Green | Deep Green | Modern Holiday | Gloss Finish |
| Icy Blue & White | Pale Blue, White | Fresh Starts, Jan | Iridescent Sparkle |
| Bold Single-Color | Electric Blue, Magenta | Editorial Looks | Glossy Monochrome |
| Velvet / Cat-Eye | Magnetic, Deep Shades | Dinners, Glam | Shifting Effect |
| Milky Neutral | Milky White, Cream | Everyday Wear | Subtle Shimmer |
| Peach Fuzz | Peach, Coral | Transitional, Pops | Soft Pastel |
| Tortoise Shell | Amber, Brown | Editorial, Neutral | Mixed Prints |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About December 2024 Nail Trends
Q: What are the most popular nail colors for December 2024?
A: Top shades include maroon, red wine, forest green, icy blue, gold chrome, and peach fuzz. Designs such as snowflakes and rhinestones are also highly sought after this season.
Q: Are milky white nails suitable for winter?
A: Yes, milky white offers a crisp, clean aesthetic reminiscent of fresh snow, making it perfect for December and January. Add subtle shimmer for a festive touch.
Q: How do I make nail art like rhinestones and pearls last longer?
A: Secure all gems and embellishments with a strong gel layer and cure under a UV or LED lamp. Avoid rough activities and apply a fresh top coat every few days to extend wear.
Q: What nail shapes are trending for December 2024?
A: Almond, oval, and coffin shapes are very popular. Choose a shape that complements your hands and the design you want.
Q: How do I choose the right December nail color for my skin tone?
A: Generally, cool undertones suit blues and milky whites, while warm undertones look great with maroons, forest green, and gold. Peach fuzz and neutral shades work on all undertones.
Tips for The Perfect December Manicure
- Prep nails thoroughly: Start with clean, gently buffed nails and hydrated cuticles before starting your manicure.
- Use a base coat: A good base coat prevents staining and helps colors adhere.
- Go slow with nail art: Use thin nail brushes or decals for snowflakes and finer details.
- Seal with a top coat: Not only does this protect your art, it boosts shine and increases longevity.
- Hydrate: Apply cuticle oil and hand cream daily to keep skin and nails healthy, especially in winter.
Where to Shop December 2024 Nail Colors
Some of the most popular brands for these trending colors and finishes include OPI, Essie, Olive & June, Zoya, and Sally Hansen. For chrome and cat-eye polishes, look for specialty gels or magnet kits. Don’t be afraid to mix shades from different brands to create your own unique holiday nail masterpiece!
Get Inspired: Personalize Your December Nails
Use these trending ideas as a launching point for your own style. Combine two trends—for example, forest green with snowflake accents, or a tortoise shell French with gold drip chrome—for a unique look. Don’t forget to snap a pic and share your creation with friends or social media. December is the perfect month to shine—starting with your nails!
References
- https://www.marieclaire.com/beauty/winter-nail-color-trends-2025/
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/g62829308/december-2024-nails-colors/
- https://www.glam.com/1478595/nail-trends-2024/
- https://www.harpersbazaar.com/beauty/nails/a62921573/winter-2024-nail-trends/
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/uk/beauty-hair/nails/g62763332/christmas-nail-art-designs/
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