When I used to think of nail art, I pictured really extravagant, colourful designs that wouldn't look out of place in an art gallery. However, in recent years, some of my favourite nail artists have started to favour a more minimalist approach, making nail art a lot more wearable for those ofus who prefer a slightly more pared-back manicure. Although I love having fun with my nails and doing something different every now and again, I'm definitely a fan of these more minimal styles, especially when it comes to Christmas. You see, I tend to go all out with my outfits and wear as many fun, festive colours and sequins as I can, so I like my nails to complement my look, rather than take away from it. Because of this, I've made it my mission to find some of the most elevatedChristmas nail designs to take to the salon this December.
I spent hours on Instagram scrolling through my favourite accounts to find some seriously chic manicures to re-create this festive season. From monochrome designs to glitteryFrench tips and elegant Christmas-tree nail art—yes, such a thing does exist—there are so many gorgeousoptions that I'm struggling to decide which one to go for. If you're also after a bit of inspiration foryour salon appointment before the big day, I highly recommend checking out the below designs.
The Chicest Christmas Nail Designs to Try This Year
1. Silver and Black Nail Art
(Image credit: @iramshelton)
First up is this stunning silver and black design. I love this combination of colours as it's festive but still monochrome, so it won't clash with your outfits.
Shop the Design:
Nails. Inc
Silver Mani Marker Nail Pen
This silver nail pen will make it so much easier to do nail art this Christmas.
2. Glittery Accent Nails
(Image credit: @themaniclub)
Like glitter but don't want it on every nail? An accent nail is the perfect way to make a subtle statement.
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Manucurist
Green Nail Polish in Mermaid
How stunning is this nail polish from Manucurist?
3. Gold French Tips
(Image credit: @betina_goldstein)
If you're a fan of a French-tip manicure, swap out your usual white polish forgold this December for a seriously stylish finish.
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H&M
Nail Polish in It's Totally Gold!
I love , and this colour just screams Christmas.
4. Christmas Tree Nail Art
(Image credit: @iramshelton)
I never thought a Christmas tree could look so chic, but I'm obsessed with this nail art. Although I don't think I'll be able to re-create it myself, I'll definitely be taking this picture to the salon.
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Nails. Inc
Work of Nail Art Tool Set
If you do want to try this yourself, you'll need some nail-art tools.
5. Candy Cane Bows
(Image credit: @pink_oblivion)
Another nail art design that I love is this candy cane bow manicure. You don't have to do the design on every nail either, simply alternate with a red, shimmery polish.
Shop the Design:
OPI
Big Zodiac Energy Nail Lacquer in Kiss My Aries
This glittery red shade is perfect.
6. Chrome Finishes
(Image credit: @paintedbyjools)
You simply can't go wrong with achrome manicure for the festive season. It's easily one of the coolest nail trends around.
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Dior
Vernis The Atelier of Dreams Limited Edition in 209 Mirror
This Dior nail polish has a beautiful chrome-like finish.
7. Nail Embellishments
(Image credit: @iramshelton)
If you want something with some serious wow factor, go for nail embellishments. Yes,this look might take a little longer to do, but the result is totally worth it. I recommend keeping your base colour fairly neutral to let the nail artdo the talking.
Shop the Design:
Mylee
The Crown Jewels Kit
This kit has all the nail embellishments you could ever need.
8. Bow Detailing
(Image credit: @pink_oblivion)
Bows are everywhere right now, and this nail art will earn you so many compliments.
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Essie
Nail Polish in Pearly White Shimmer
Use a white polish and a small brush to re-create this bow design.
(Image credit: @themaniclub)
Who said you can't mix gold and silver? I love this mixed metal French-tip design for an elevated take on festive nails.
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Nails. Inc
Metallic Mani 5-Piece Nail Set
This set has everything you need to re-create this shimmering metallic look.
10. Bauble Nail Art
(Image credit: @iramshelton)
We all love putting baubles on the tree, so why notadd them to your nails too? This nail art is perfect for minimalists.
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Palette London
Matte Top Coat
Apply a topcoat tomake your hard work last longer. This matte-finish one adds a cool edge.
11. Silver Detailing
(Image credit: @iramshelton)
Silver is such a popular colour at the moment, so if you want your nails to look bang on trend, then this subtle silver detailingshould do the trick.
Shop the Design:
Mavala
Cyber Chic Mini Colour Nail Varnish in Cyber Silver
Not only is this the perfect silver polish, but it's affordable too.
12. Classic Red
(Image credit: @raelondonnails)
If nail art isn't your thing, you simply can't go wrong with aclassic red manicure this Christmas.
Shop the Design:
Nailberry
Oxygenated Nail Lacquer in Rouge
This shade is one of my absolute favourites for this time of year.
Next Up:5 Classy Nail Colours You're Going to See Everywhere This December
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