13 Festive Manicure Ideas For Christmas
By
2 weeks ago
We've rounded up the top looks for festive season – from stars to ribbons, frosty chrome to candy stripes
Planning your festive beauty calendar? With 25 December just around the corner, now’s the time to book that appointment at the nail bar. If you’re looking for some festive inspiration, read on. We’ve rounded up our favourite Christmas nail ideas for the season.
Looking For NYE Manicure Ideas? Click Here
Which Nail Designs Are Trending For Christmas 2025?
There’s always the classics – a deep red, a flash of gold, polished French tips – but there are a select few nail designs coming out on top this Christmas. ‘We’re seeing people taking their favourite go-to looks and elevating them with seasonal touches,’ notes Leighton Denny MBE, nail expert and founder of Leighton Denny Nails. ‘Classic French tips are being given more character with sparkle, chrome is trending in richer, deeper shades as it’s winter, and glazed nails are being transformed into fairy dust-inspired finishes.’
Not a fan of a fancy manicure? Fear not. ‘Minimalists aren’t left out – even simple, understated designs can feel festive with just a hint of shimmer or a refined metallic accent. Essentially, it’s about celebrating the season while keeping nails wearable and fun – you don’t need to stick to red or green to feel festive. (Though they’re really fun to wear this time year!)’
When Should You Book Your Festive Manicure?
According to salons, the best day to book your Christmas nail appointment this year is Wednesday 17 December 2025. ‘Aim for a week before Christmas Eve, so they will last you through the big day and through to New Years Eve,’ advises Tina Micheal, founder of Shoreditch Nails. ‘This means you won’t have to worry about booking another appointment across the holidays.’
Generally speaking, at this time of year, it’s easier to book a manicure on a weekday. ‘Weekdays are quieter days in beauty salons, so avoiding the weekend approaching Christmas is wise,’ Tina adds. ‘Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays in December are the quieter days in the salon across the festive period. Beauty lovers are more likely to be able to book an appointment on these days – just make sure not to leave it too late as salons will soon book up.’
Manicure Inspiration: Christmas Nails
1. Snow Chrome
For understated luxury, think frosted chrome. ‘If you prefer something a little more understated yet magical, chrome finishes remain a top choice,’ emphasises Leighton. ‘Opt for an icy-frost white with a chrome top coat. If you don’t want an all-over chrome look, try it as an accent – on the tips or cuticle lines.’
View this post on Instagram
2. Jewel Tones
And if the usual Christmas reds don’t appeal, don’t worry – you can just as easily get your festive thrills from jewel tones. ‘While red is a classic, the sophisticated winter palette is expanding,’ notes Leighton. ‘Deep emerald green has been a big moment this year, often accented with a shimmering finish to create a luxurious, jewel-tone look. Green is definitely being reimagined this Christmas.’
View this post on Instagram
3. Fairy Dust Finish
Looking for some festive sparkle? ‘This look combines the understated elegance of a nude base with the magic of glitter and shimmer,’ highlights Leighton. ‘The sparkly gradient effect adds depth and dimension, while the addition of sparkling accents or twinkling fairy dust brings a festive, celebratory touch. It’s a versatile style that feels luxurious yet playful, perfect for transitioning from daytime gatherings to sparkling evening parties.’
View this post on Instagram
4. Candy Cane Swirl
‘Candy cane-inspired stripes are cheerful, bold, and instantly recognisable for the season,’ says Leighton. ‘Don’t feel limited to red and white – pinks, greens, or complementary shades can make your manicure playful and modern. This design works on both short and long nails and can be tailored to suit your outfit or party vibe.’ For more candy cane inspiration, see our guide here.
View this post on Instagram
5. Christmas Tree Nails
What says Christmas more than the tree itself? Decorated in baubles, tinsel and stars, this is a festive green mani with plenty of sparkle. We’ve rounded up some our favourite Christmas tree nail ideas here.
View this post on Instagram
6. Gift Wrap
You can also tie in one of the biggest trends of the year. Wrap up festive season with a mani inspired by the presents under the tree, topped with a big beautiful bow.
View this post on Instagram
7. Party Metallics
If thoughts stray more towards parties than festivities, don’t worry. You can get the best of both worlds with a metallic set, in shades of gold, silver or bronze. For some extra shine, try a cat eye or chrome finish.
View this post on Instagram
8. Cabernet Nails
The most popular colour of the season? It has to be red. But rather than stick to jolly shades, opt for luxe hues of burgundy, maroon and red wine. You can see some of our favourite takes on the trend here.
View this post on Instagram
9. Festive French
‘A classic French manicure is always in season, but for Christmas, try a bright red tip instead of your usual white, or add a subtle sparkle to catch the light,’ suggests Leighton. ‘I love seeing glitter French tips over the holidays because it lasts well and grows out subtly, so your manicure looks good right through to New Year.’
View this post on Instagram
10. Shining Stars
Stars can also be the focal point of your Christmas nails. Whether painted on, stuck on with stickers or highlighted with rhinestones, you mani is sure to shine throughout December.
View this post on Instagram
11. Sugarplum Fairy
This Christmas, think pink. Sugary pastels can be just as festive as a merry red – especially when moulded into snowflakes, ribbons and dainty french tips.
View this post on Instagram
12. Snowflakes
Another winter staple, you can build you Christmas mani around the humble snowflake. Go for the white Christmas look, or add a bit of flair with silver accents and a glossy finish.
View this post on Instagram
13. Dainty Decals
And finally, why not go all in on the Christmas theme with the full festive spread? These cute illustrations give your nails a fun feel with the key staples of the season: pine trees, snowflakes, Christmas pudding and candy canes. ‘Playful festive figure designs featuring miniature gingerbread men and Santa hats (on French tips) are everywhere at the moment,’ adds Leighton. ‘They’re often applied over a milky or nude base for a “soft cute” Korean nail art aesthetic. This is a gorgeous way to bring the festive season to your nails.’
View this post on Instagram
Featured image: @basecoatstories on Instagram
