As the winter chill settles in, it’s the perfect time to swap out your bright summer hues for something a bit more seasonal. Winter nail polish colors can add just the right amount of warmth, elegance, and sparkle to your look.
Here’s a rundown of the best nail colors for this season—colors that will keep your nails looking fabulous and in line with the latest trends.
In This Article
1. Chocolate Brown
Brown is the surprise star this season, with rich, chocolatey shades dominating the runways. Think luxurious cocoa hues that feel warm, comforting, and perfect for colder weather.
This shade complements most skin tones, making it an easy choice if you’re looking to switch things up.
Pro Tip: Pair it with gold rings for a beautiful, warm contrast that elevates the look.
Best chocolate brown nail polishes for winter: EssieOdd Squad, OPIThat’s What Friends Are Thor, ILNPChocolate, Hermes Brun Bistre
2. Warm Cinnamon
This year, cinnamon shades are having a moment, offering a sophisticated take on earthy tones with a hint of spice. Imagine the warmth of a cinnamon latte in color form—rich, slightly muted, and effortlessly cozy.
Pro Tip: Keep your nails shorter with this shade for a modern, minimalist look that feels fresh and easy.
Best cinnamon nail polishes for winter: Essie Playing Koi, OPIMy Italian is a Little Rusty, Deborah Lippmann Gel Lab Pro Fashion, Butter LondonMums the Word, ChanelSpirituelle
3. Frosted Lilac
Lilac isn’t just for spring anymore! This winter, soft lilac shades with a hint of frosted shimmer are trending for those who love pastel tones.
This is one of those winter nail polish colors that’s cool enough to fit the season, while still offering a soft, feminine touch. Plus, it’s ideal for adding a pop of color without overwhelming your look.
Pro Tip: Choose a sheer frosted lilac if you want a more subtle effect or go opaque for a bolder look.
Best frosted lilac nail polishes for winter: Essie Lilacism, OPIDo You Lilac It?, Sally HansenLacey Lilac, ILNPLilac Bridges, Butter LondonMolly Coddled, Chanel Immortelle
4. Icy Blue-Grey
The moody, wintery shade that captures the essence of a snowy day, icy blue-grey nails are both subtle and sophisticated. This color is versatile enough for everyday wear but unique enough to make a statement.
It’s the perfect match for cozy sweaters and warm scarves, adding a little extra edge to your winter wardrobe.
Pro Tip: Try a matte topcoat on this color for an extra frosty feel!
Best icy blue-grey nail polishes for winter: EssieCocktail Bling, OPII Am What I Amethyst, ZoyaKristen, Deborah Lippmann Grey Day, ILNPIntense Silver, Hermes Blue Agate
5. Velvet Black
Yes, black nails are a classic, but for Winter 2024, the trend is all about texture. Velvet blacks—think matte or velvet-finish polish—are taking over.
This super-rich shade feels chic and elegant while adding an edgy twist to any winter look.
Pro Tip: Try a matte top coat to achieve the velvet finish if you don’t have a matte polish handy.
Best velvet black nail polishes for winter: EssieLicorice, OPIBlack Onyx, ZoyaWilla, Sally HansenBlack Heart, ILNPInk
6. Sparkling Silver
For those of you who love a bit of glam, sparkling silver is your go-to for Winter 2024. This isn’t your typical glitter polish; we’re talking about a full-on, metallic silver that feels like jewelry for your nails.
Silver is also perfect for ringing in the new year, adding a little extra shine to your holiday season.
Pro Tip: Pair it with a neutral outfit to let your nails be the star of the show!
Best silver nail polishes for winter: EssieApres-Chic, OPIThe Runway, Sally HansenSilver Storm, ILNPAvalanche
7. Midnight Navy
If black feels too intense, midnight navy is the perfect alternative in the realm of winter nail polish colors. This shade gives you that dark, edgy vibe without the harshness of true black.
Midnight navy is sophisticated and bold—perfect for those winter nights when you’re feeling a bit mysterious!
Pro Tip: Try a gloss finish for an ultra-chic look, or add tiny stars or dots for a cosmic twist.
Best navy blue nail polishes for winter: EssieStep Out of Line, OPIYoga-ta Get This Blue!, Sally HansenOn the Download, Hermes Bleu Encre
8. Classic Wine Red
Some things never go out of style, and a rich, classic wine red is one of them. Winter 2024’s wine reds lean towards deeper, luxurious tones, like mulled wine by a crackling fire.
It’s bold without being overpowering, making it perfect for any winter occasion. Plus, it looks fabulous on all nail lengths and shapes.
Pro Tip: If you’re going to a holiday party, add a layer of fine gold glitter to just the tips for a festive touch!
Best wine red nail polishes for winter: EssieBordeaux, OPIMalaga Wine, Sally HansenWine Not, Butter LondonDark Blackberry, ChanelRouge Noir, Hermes Rouge H
9. Rich Evergreen
Nothing says winter quite like a deep green! This year, evergreen shades are making a major comeback, adding an earthy, cozy vibe that’s still super chic.
A rich evergreen brings that holiday spirit without being overly festive, making it perfect for the whole season. Look for a glossy finish to make the color pop.
Pro Tip: Pair it with a glittery gold accent nail for a luxe holiday twist!
Best deep green nail polishes for winter: Essie Off Tropic, OPIStay Off the Lawn, Sally HansenC-hill Out, Hermes Vert Ecossais
10. Smoky Mauve
Smoky mauves bring a dreamy, sophisticated touch to winter nails. This shade is softer than classic darks but still offers that winter-appropriate depth.
Smoky mauve adds a hint of color without feeling too vibrant, making it the ideal shade for a more understated yet stylish look.
Pro Tip: A high-gloss top coat adds a beautiful shine that enhances the muted tone of smoky mauve.
Best smoky mauve nail polishes for winter: EssieGet A Mauve On, OPITaupe-less Beach, Sally Hansen Mauve Over
Whether you’re into dark, moody tones or prefer something sparkly and festive, Winter 2024 has a nail color for every mood and occasion. So, go ahead, pick your favorite shade, and give your nails the winter refresh they deserve! Here’s to keeping our nails as fabulous as the season itself.