There’s just something about wintertime that begs for a fresh set of nails. Maybe it’s the fact that cold weather and dry skin make the pampering that much more special, or that taking off a pair of gloves is twice as satisfying when there’s a gorgeous manicure underneath. Regardless of why you love to get a winter manicure, the months of January through March can be some of the most confusing and unclear in terms of choosing a color. Where it might feel obvious to pick lighter, brighter colors in the summer or a dark red around November and December, the winter is when we truly get free reign over our nail colors.
We’ve rounded up 10 potential nail colors to bring to your next appointment to have an on-trend (but still chic) manicure to kick off 2024. From glowing peach tones to shimmery blacks and blues, these are the shades that will have you wanting to ditch your gloves this winter.
Shimmery Black
With this shimmery look, you can basically replicate the night sky on your nails, which is why we’re all for black nails with a sparkly touch in 2024. This specific shade ensures that you don’t need to deal with an uneven topcoat, with gold sparkles embedded in the black polish.
Icy Sparkle
If you’re looking for a sparkle that’s a tad more subtle, look no further than this neutral, shimmery shade. Icy fingernails are going to be all the rage this winter, so this is the perfect pick for a glossy yet understated vibe.
Light Blues
Hi, welcome to 2024, have you heard about blue beauty? Because we can’t stop talking about it. Light blue and periwinkle are bound to dominate everything from eyeshadow to nails this year, so take advantage of the trend and opt for winter blues—but the good kind.
Dark Grape
Make things moody this winter with this gorgeous deep grape color. Whether you’re channeling your inner villain energy or just want to get a set that’s a little more striking than dark red, this color will get you through the darkest months of the year.
Gold
Frosted shades of all kinds are in for 2024, so we love a gold nail as an option this winter. Neutral enough to pair with a colorful wardrobe yet sparkly enough to wear to an awards season watch party? Say less.
Classic Cherry Red
How perfect is this bright cherry red color?! In the transition between the holiday season and Valentine’s day, there’s no reason not to stick with a classic. Plus, if you’re single, January and February are the ideal time to test out red nail theory.
Glowy Neutral
If you’re obsessed with “old money nails” or anything quiet luxury, you probably already have this lined up as your go-to shade for your winter manicures. Even so, it still deserves a mention, because a shiny neutral nail is just that good.
Brown Shimmer
Noticing a theme here? This shimmering brown color will add yet another neutral-yet-fun vibe to your manicure. This is the kind of shade that will have you taking nail-and-latte selfies for as long as the set lasts.
Subtle Glitter Details
OK, so this isn’t technically a color, but this combo of a neutral nail plus some gold detailing is super on-trend for 2024 winter nails. Pull out your favorite neutral shades and invest in a sparkly gold topcoat as a way to add an accent.
Pantone Peach
In case you missed it, Pantone announced “peach fuzz” as their 2024 color of the year, and we’re here for the throwback. When all of your friends are wearing peach nails this spring and summer, you can say you did it first.
