Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

31 Best Christmas & Holiday Nail Designs You Need to Try

31. Champagne New Year’s Nails

Image Credit: FemmeGlowDaily

If you want festive but classy, champagne nails hit the sweet spot. Soft gold sparkle, champagne glitter tips, and hint of shimmer make this perfect for Christmas dinners and New Year countdown parties.

• Best for: New Year’s Eve parties, glam events
• Style: Soft sparkle, elegant, minimal glam
• Pairs with: Metallic outfits, black dresses, sequin tops

How to create it:

1. Apply a nude or pale gold base coat.
2. Add champagne glitter polish to the tips, fading downward.
3. Seal with a glossy top coat for glass-like shine.

30. Festive Mixed Set

Image Credit: FemmeGlowDaily

If you love playful holiday vibes, this mixed set lets you combine stripes, glitter, snowflakes, and solids into one fun manicure. Each nail shows personality while still tying into the Christmas theme.

• Best for: Holiday photos, casual Christmas parties, fun festive weekends
• Style: Playful, colorful, mix-and-match
• Pairs with: Cozy sweaters, holiday pajamas, casual winter looks

How to create it:

1. Paint each nail with a different holiday pattern (solid, stripes, glitter, snowflakes).
2. Use a fine detail brush for lines and snowflake shapes.
3. Finish with a glossy top coat to unify the mixed design.

29. White Christmas French Tips

Image Credit: FemmeGlowDaily

Classic white French tips are timeless, but add a tiny snowflake or rhinestone accent, and it instantly becomes a magical winter manicure. Clean, crisp, and festive without being flashy.

• Best for: Office parties, family gatherings, minimal makeup looks
• Style: Simple, elegant, winter-chic
• Pairs with: White coats, cozy sweaters, silver accessories

How to create it:

1. Apply a neutral or soft pink base coat.
2. Paint clean white French tips and add one snowflake or rhinestone accent.
3. Finish with glossy top coat for a smooth shine.

28. Grinch-Inspired Green Nails

Image Credit: FemmeGlowDaily

If you like playful holiday vibes, Grinch-inspired nails are bold, bright, and instantly recognizable. The vivid green shade and cartoon-style accents bring fun personality to your manicure.

• Best for: Holiday parties, themed events, playful Christmas looks
• Style: Bright, bold, cartoon-inspired
• Pairs with: Graphic sweaters, casual outfits, fun accessories

How to create it:

1. Paint nails in vibrant Grinch green polish.
2. Add a small Grinch face or red Santa hat accent on one nail.
3. Finish with a glossy top coat for a bold, shiny finish.

27. Metallic Red Chrome

Image Credit: FemmeGlowDaily

These metallic red chrome nails give instant holiday glam. The reflective shine mimics Christmas ornaments and catches light beautifully whether you’re indoors or under festive outdoor décor.

• Best for: Holiday photos, night parties, bold looks
• Style: High-shine, reflective, bold glam
• Pairs with: Gold accessories, red lipstick, satin dresses

How to create it:

1. Apply two coats of deep red gel polish.
2. Rub red chrome powder onto cured polish.
3. Finish with a glossy gel top coat.

26. Minimalist Tree Line

Image Credit: FemmeGlowDaily

These thin-line Christmas tree nails give holiday spirit without feeling loud. Modern, subtle, and perfect if you love clean aesthetic manicures with a festive twist.

• Best for: Minimalist lovers, office wear, casual chic looks
• Style: Clean lines, neutral base, modern holiday art
• Pairs with: Oversized sweaters, neutral outfits, dainty jewelry

How to create it:

1. Paint a nude base coat.
2. Use a fine nail brush to draw thin tree outlines.
3. Seal with a glossy or matte top coat.

25. Rose Gold Christmas

Image Credit: FemmeGlowDaily

Soft, romantic, and glam—rose gold nails bring a feminine twist to traditional holiday shades. The shimmer looks stunning under warm lights and gives a cozy festive vibe.

• Best for: Holiday brunches, date nights, family gatherings
• Style: Soft glam, metallic shimmer, romantic holiday tone
• Pairs with: Cream outfits, champagne jewelry, soft pink sweaters

How to create it:

1. Apply a soft pink or nude base coat.
2. Add rose gold chrome or shimmer polish.
3. Lock in shine with a glossy top coat.

24. Snow Globe Nails

Image Credit: FemmeGlowDaily

Snow globe nails capture magical winter charm with encapsulated glitter that floats like snowflakes. This dreamy design is perfect if you want something fun, sparkling, and super festive.

• Best for: Holiday photos, Christmas parties, winter vacations
• Style: Whimsical, glittery, playful
• Pairs with: White sweaters, faux fur coats, silver accessories

How to create it:

1. Apply a clear or milky base coat.
2. Encapsulate fine glitter and tiny flakes using builder gel.
3. Finish with a high-gloss top coat for the snow globe illusion.

23. Mistletoe Accent Nails

Image Credit: FemmeGlowDaily

A soft neutral base with mistletoe art makes your nails look romantic and festive without going over the top. A perfect balance of subtle Christmas vibes.

• Best for: Casual gatherings, office celebrations
• Style: Soft, minimalist, festive detail
• Pairs with: Neutral outfits, cream sweaters, dainty jewelry

How to create it:

1. Start with a nude or beige polish as your base.
2. Paint mistletoe leaves and berries using a thin nail art brush.
3. Seal with a glossy or matte top coat depending on your style.

22. Sweater Texture Nails

Image Credit: FemmeGlowDaily

Bring winter coziness to your manicure with 3D sweater detailing. The knit texture adds warmth and charm—like wearing your favorite holiday sweater on your nails.

• Best for: Winter trips, cozy cabin stays
• Style: Textured, cozy, winter aesthetic
• Pairs with: Cable-knit sweaters, boots, layered outfits

How to create it:

1. Paint nails with a soft winter shade like cream or gray.
2. Use gel to draw sweater lines and cure for the raised effect.
3. Finish with matte top coat to highlight the knit texture.

21. Burgundy & Gold Luxury Nails

Image Credit: FemmeGlowDaily

Rich burgundy meets gold foil for the ultimate luxury holiday nail look. If you’re someone who loves deep tones with a touch of glam, this combo is timeless and classy.

• Best for: Work parties, holiday dinners, New Year glamour
• Style: Luxe, bold, elegant
• Pairs with: Gold jewelry, velvet dresses, bold lipsticks

How to create it:

1. Paint nails with a glossy burgundy polish.
2. Apply gold foil or flakes to accent nails.
3. Finish with a thick top coat to seal and shine.

20. Frozen Blue Chrome

Image Credit: FemmeGlowDaily

This icy chrome blue nail look brings serious Frozen vibes. Cool metallic tones reflect winter elegance and make your nails look like frosted glass.

• Best for: Winter weddings, snowy vacations
• Style: Metallic, icy, futuristic glam
• Pairs with: Silver jewelry, cool-toned outfits, faux fur

How to create it:

1. Start with pale blue gel polish.
2. Rub chrome blue powder over the cured layer.
3. Seal with a no-wipe glossy top coat.

19. Ornament Nail Art

Image Credit: FemmeGlowDaily

Cute ornaments hanging from painted branches make this set adorable and festive. It’s fun, artsy, and perfect if you love detailed Christmas nail art.

• Best for: Holiday gatherings, Christmas events
• Style: Playful, detailed, colorful
• Pairs with: Cozy sweaters, red scarves, winter hats

How to create it:

1. Paint a nude or soft pastel base.
2. Draw tiny ornaments and branches using thin nail brushes.
3. Add glossy top coat to protect the artwork.

18. Reindeer Silhouette Nails

Image Credit: FemmeGlowDaily

These reindeer silhouette nails are fun, playful, and perfectly festive. A simple outline of your favorite holiday reindeer makes this manicure adorable without being overly busy.

• Best for: Family gatherings, holiday photo shoots
• Style: Cute, minimalist holiday art
• Pairs with: Cozy sweaters, beige or brown winter outfits

How to create it:

1. Paint nails a neutral or nude base.
2. Add a small reindeer silhouette using black or white nail art polish.
3. Outline or add tiny dot accents and finish with a glossy top coat.

17. Peppermint Swirl Nails

Image Credit: FemmeGlowDaily

If you love classic holiday treats, these peppermint swirl nails bring sweet charm to your manicure. Red-and-white circular stripes mimic festive peppermint candies.

• Best for: Holiday parties, candy-themed events
• Style: Retro, playful, bright
• Pairs with: Red dresses, winter hats, candy-cane accessories

How to create it:

1. Paint nails white as your base.
2. Use a thin brush to create red swirl lines from center outward.
3. Finish with glossy top coat for a candy-like sheen.

16. Silver Glitter Bomb Nails

Image Credit: FemmeGlowDaily

This design is all about sparkle from every angle. Full-coverage silver glitter transforms your nails into glistening tinsel-like magic.

• Best for: New Year’s Eve, winter weddings
• Style: Bold, dazzling, statement sparkle
• Pairs with: Metallic dresses, silver heels, bold makeup

How to create it:

1. Start with a silver polish base or reflective gel.
2. Pack on fine glitter or use glitter gel polish for full coverage.
3. Finish with a thick top coat to lock in the sparkle.

15. Holly Berry Accent Nails

Image Credit: FemmeGlowDaily

Classic and timeless, holly berry nails add a pop of red and green without going overboard. Perfect for those who want a touch of holiday charm with elegance.

• Best for: Office holiday events, family Christmas dinners
• Style: Subtle, traditional, festive
• Pairs with: Green sweaters, red scarves, wool coats

How to create it:

1. Paint nails nude or soft cream as your base.
2. Add two green leaves and small red dots for berries on accent nails.
3. Apply glossy top coat to seal the art.

14. Nutcracker-Inspired Accents

Image Credit: FemmeGlowDaily

A whimsical take for the holidays, nutcracker nails bring nostalgia and charm. Expect toy soldier faces, gold trims, and royal blue or red details that stand out beautifully.

• Best for: Holiday plays, whimsical Christmas lovers
• Style: Artistic, storybook-inspired, detailed
• Pairs with: Velvet dresses, royal blue capes, gold accessories

How to create it:

1. Paint nails in festive colors (blue, red, gold).
2. Add nutcracker character details using thin brushes.
3. Top with gloss to make the design pop.

13. Christmas Lights Nails

Image Credit: FemmeGlowDaily

These nails look like a tiny string of colorful Christmas lights wrapped playfully across each finger — cute, fun, and totally festive for any gathering.

• Best for: Family holidays, cozy gatherings
• Style: Playful, colorful, cheerful
• Pairs with: Cozy sweaters, casual winter looks

How to create it:

1. Start with a nude or white base.
2. Paint a black curved line and add tiny colored bulbs.
3. Finish with a glossy top coat.

12. Red Velvet Matte

Image Credit: FemmeGlowDaily

This deep matte red captures the luxe velvet look of holiday ribbons — bold, elegant, and warm without needing glitter to shine.

• Best for: Minimal glam lovers, dinner dates
• Style: Bold, matte, statement
• Pairs with: Red lipstick, satin outfits

How to create it:

1. Apply two coats of deep red polish.
2. Finish with a matte top coat.
3. Optional: add a glossy stripe for contrast.

11. Blue Winter Wonderland

Image Credit: FemmeGlowDaily

Frosty blue tones and dreamy snowflake patterns bring winter fairytales to your fingertips — stunning, soft, and magical.

• Best for: Winter-themed parties, ice-skating dates
• Style: Frosty, dreamy, snow-inspired
• Pairs with: White coats, silver jewelry

How to create it:

1. Use a light or frosty blue base.
2. Paint snowflakes using white nail art polish.
3. Add tiny glitter accents for sparkle.

10. Frosted Icicle Ombré

Image Credit: FemmeGlowDaily

This ombré blends white to clear with icy glitter tips — a sleek, frozen look straight out of a snow queen fantasy.

• Best for: Winter photoshoots, glam holiday events
• Style: Clean, icy, sparkly
• Pairs with: Silver gowns, crystal accessories

How to create it:

1. Apply white polish fading toward the center.
2. Blend into clear or nude using a sponge.
3. Top with iridescent glitter and gloss.

9. Nude Nails + Gold Foil

Image Credit: FemmeGlowDaily

When you want classy with a hint of glam, nude nails with gold foil are a winner. Subtle yet luxurious, they work for every event on your holiday calendar.

• Best for: Weddings, Christmas dinners, winter events
• Style: Minimal luxe, soft glam
• Pairs with: Silk tops, beige coats, gold accessories

How to create it:

1. Apply two coats of nude polish.
2. Press small pieces of gold foil onto the tacky layer.
3. Seal with a glossy top coat.

8. Gingerbread Cookie Nails

Image Credit: FemmeGlowDaily

Give your nails holiday bakery vibes with cute gingerbread designs. The brown “cookie” shade looks adorable with white icing-like details.

• Best for: Christmas baking days, family gatherings
• Style: Cute, cozy, playful
• Pairs with: Chunky sweaters, festive pajamas

How to create it:

1. Paint nails with gingerbread-brown polish.
2. Use white gel liner to draw icing borders and dots.
3. Top with matte or glossy finish.

7. Cozy Plaid Nails

Image Credit: FemmeGlowDaily

Nothing says winter like cozy plaid patterns. Red-and-black flannel nails feel festive and outdoorsy — perfect for cabin trips.

• Best for: Christmas markets, winter vacations
• Style: Rustic, cozy, warm
• Pairs with: Flannel shirts, denim jackets, boots

How to create it:

1. Start with a solid red base.
2. Use black and white striping polish to form plaid lines.
3. Apply top coat for durability.

6. Gold Chrome Magic

Image Credit: FemmeGlowDaily

If full glam is your vibe, gold chrome nails deliver instant red-carpet energy. They look like metallic foil—bold, rich, and camera ready.

• Best for: Holiday parties, night outs, New Year celebrations
• Style: Bold, glamorous, red-carpet
• Pairs with: Sequins, black outfits, bold jewelry

How to create it:

1. Paint nails with gold gel polish.
2. Rub in gold chrome powder while tacky.
3. Finish with a glossy top coat.

5. Santa Hat Accent Nails

Image Credit: FemmeGlowDaily

This playful design adds just the right amount of Christmas cheer. A cute little Santa hat on an accent nail makes ordinary red nails holiday-ready.

• Best for: Christmas Eve dinners, playful holiday looks
• Style: Fun, festive, adorable
• Pairs with: Red sweaters, Santa hats, cozy scarves

How to create it:

1. Paint all nails red except one accent.
2. Use white polish to draw the fluffy trim and pom-pom.
3. Add glossy top coat to seal the design.

4. Frosted Icicle Ombré

Image Credit: FemmeGlowDaily

These frosted icicle ombré nails give winter wonderland vibes with cool frosty white tips fading softly into a sheer natural base.

• Best for: Winter vacations, holiday photoshoots
• Style: Frosty, soft glam, winter-inspired
• Pairs with: Silver jewelry, cozy sweaters, faux fur coats

How to create it:

1. Start with a nude or sheer pink base.
2. Use a sponge to dab white polish on tips to create an ombré fade.
3. Add a layer of fine glitter and seal with top coat.

3. Snowflake Glitter Tips

Image Credit: FemmeGlowDaily

Classic French tips get a holiday makeover with glittery edges and delicate snowflake accents that feel festive without being too loud.

• Best for: Office Christmas events, family gatherings
• Style: Elegant, soft sparkle, polished
• Pairs with: Winter cardigans, pearl accessories, neutral outfits

How to create it:

1. Apply a clear or nude base coat.
2. Paint glitter polish on the tips and add snowflakes using nail art stickers or a thin brush.
3. Finish with a glossy top coat to lock in the sparkle.

2. Candy Cane Stripes

Image Credit: FemmeGlowDaily

Sweet and nostalgic, candy cane stripes mix festive red and snowy white lines for a playful holiday manicure.

• Best for: Christmas Day gatherings, cookie decorating parties
• Style: Fun, youthful, festive
• Pairs with: Red sweaters, white knits, casual holiday outfits

How to create it:

1. Paint nails white or red as your base color.
2. Use striping tape or thin brush to add alternating diagonal stripes.
3. Apply a glossy top coat to make it candy-like shiny.

1. Classic Red Gloss

Image Credit: FemmeGlowDaily

This timeless red gloss mani never fails. It’s bold, chic, and perfectly festive for any occasion.

• Best for: Every holiday event, everyday glam
• Style: Classic, bold, timeless
• Pairs with: Gold jewelry, black outfits, red lipstick

How to create it:

1. Apply a high-quality glossy red polish.
2. Build up color with 2–3 coats for richness.
3. Finish with a shiny top coat for glass-like reflection.

Must-Have Tools & Products for Your Holiday Nail Designs

To make these Christmas and New Year nail designs last (and actually look like the inspo pics), you’ll want a few staple tools and products in your kit.

• Good base coat: Helps prevent staining from reds, greens, and dark shades, and gives you a smooth canvas.
• Glossy and matte top coat: A must for locking in glitter, designs, and giving that salon-level finish.
• Fine nail art brushes: Perfect for candy cane stripes, snowflakes, plaid lines, and tiny details.
• Dotting tools: Great for holly berries, light bulbs, ornaments, and easy polka-dot snow.
• Striping tape or nail guides: Makes clean French tips, geometric lines, and striped designs so much easier.
• Glitter & foils: Loose glitter, chrome powders, and gold foils instantly turn simple nails into festive party nails.
• Nail glue & rhinestones: Ideal if you love adding tiny gems to accent nails for extra sparkle.
• Cuticle oil & hand cream: Holiday manicures look 10x better on hydrated skin and healthy cuticles.
• UV/LED lamp (for gels): If you use gel polishes, a reliable lamp helps your manicure last through the whole festive season.

For long-lasting, rich holiday shades, OPI is always a safe, classic bet:
Shop OPI Nail Polish starting at $6.50! You can also stock up on:

• Nail art brush sets: Look for ultra-fine liner brushes, striping brushes, and detail brushes for precise holiday designs. Shop nail art brush kits
• Glitter and chrome kits: Mixed glitter pots, chrome powders, and flakes are perfect for champagne, snow globe, and metallic designs. Shop glitter & chrome nail kits
• Beginner-friendly nail tools bundle: If you’re just starting out, grab a set that includes buffers, files, cuticle pushers, and tools in one place. Shop nail tool starter sets

Once you’ve got a solid little nail kit ready, you can easily recreate any of these 31 holiday nail ideas at home and tweak them to match your outfits, parties, and personal style.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links—at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we truly love and believe will add value to your beauty routine.