the best nail colours for winter

as the seasons change, it’s time for your manicure colours for winter to step into the spotlight. From cool tones and cosy neutrals to fabulous festive shades, these nail polish styles pair perfectly with crisp mornings – and comfy nights in.

whether you’re cuddled up in a jumper or embracing the cold, there’s a variety of nail trend ideas and inspiration to look forward to. now, read on to discover why your nail styling should change with the season – and explore the top trending nail colours for winter.

why do nail colours change with the seasons?

as the seasons shift, so do our fashion choices – and that includes nails.

while the warmer winter wardrobe provides more opportunity to curate your style, they need that final touch – and here, your nails are like a canvas that reflect the changing moods and weather. in the winter, you want to look for deeper tones that mirror the cosy and sometimes intimate vibes of the colder weather. so, for dark winter nail colours, think soft greys, calming metallic shimmers and rich berry tones.

trending nail colours for winter 2025

this winter’s nail inspo is all about moody colours, comforting shades, and a touch of seasonal magic. let the season guide you – embracing the cool tones and quiet moments of the seasons with colours that match the surrounding vibe. from rich reds to icy blues, discover this year’s trending Essie manicure colours for winter below.

dark and moody winter nail colours

dark and moody nail colours are the perfect way to mirror the winter vibe.

deep reds like our bordeaux are bold, yet elegant. but if you’re feeling more neutral – yet still want a glossy finish – black nail polish, like essie’s licorice proves that the best winter colour for nails can be both simple and stunning. prefer something to match winter’s darker depths? try the flawless sapphire shimmer of our aruba blue.

cool neutrals and muted tones

winter is naturally cool, and there are a variety of timeless winter nail polish shades that fit this style. soft pinks like matter of fiction add a light blush that pairs well with colourful scarves or layered knits. if you’re a minimalist, cooler greens and lighter greys – such as maximillian strasse-her – add a refined tone change that still feels true to the cold.

berry and plum shades

rich berry and plum hues add a flattering warmth that brighten grey days – without overpowering your aesthetic. essie shades like paisley the way deliver a touch of purple elegance, like a plum or mauve cherry. for a pop of colour to complement your winter style, opt for our cute as a button or sunday funday polish to express yourself.

metallics and shimmer for festive winter looks

some of the best winter nail colours are those that add some sparkle or dazzle amongst the cold. these shades brighten your nails (and spirits!) for a festive celebration – whether you’re attending a themed party or simply embracing the new season.

our set in stones shade mimics the effect of a disco ball, offering eye-catching shine that still blends well with grey days. for something more lavish, a cut above provides a glitzy, glimmering, and high-shine finish – the perfect way to ignite that holiday cheer.

how to make your winter manicure last

achieving a long-lasting winter fashion begins with a simple, effective nail care routine.

which means that, once you’ve selected your favourite manicure colours for winter, the next step is maintenance. during the colder months, dry air and indoor heating can cause your nails to become brittle. but don’t panic! we’ve put together our top expert nail care tips for winter to keep your nail colours and shades looking – and feeling – great.

keeping hands moisturised

if your hands feel dry and cracked, it’s likely your nails will, too.

this can affect their appearance, but also the longevity of your manicure – so to keep your nails healthy, moisturise your hands regularly. this could be with a hydrating hand cream or cuticle oil that protects the skin around your nails. if you ever want to change polish colours – say, from red to grey – healthy hands provide a smoother base to apply your new shade, helping you achieve a flawless finish every time.

use a strengthening base coat

before applying any winter nail polish colours, make sure to apply a base coat first. The fortifying formula of strong start supports brittle nails, meaning your winter nail polish colours are less vulnerable to peeling and chipping.

to use a base coat:

• apply one coat of the solution to a clean nail, then wait to dry.                                                                                   
• layer two coats of your chosen nail polish.                                                                                                            
• finish with a topcoat, then wait for it to dry again to seal in the gloss and shine.                                            

apply a topcoat regularly

your manicure colour for winter should shine, and a new topcoat layer will help it do just that – ensuring long lasting nail polish and helping shield your look against the winter weather. 

our stay longer top coat helps to prevent fading and dullness. we recommend reapplying your topcoat every two to three days – especially during the colder months – to keep your nails polished and protected.

now you’ve got your new nail colours for winter sorted, explore more ways to perfect your personalised winter nail look by finding the best essie nail polish for your skin tone.