As the colder months settle in, nail enthusiasts are embracing a range of rich, deep shades that reflect the season’s essence. From the luxurious hues of purple and red to calming neutrals, there’s a winter palette for every taste. For those who prefer a more subdued approach, cool tones like white and gray continue to dominate, offering a fresh yet timeless appeal. Expert nail artist Valeriia Telemaniuk has shared with Byrdie that this season welcomes back classic styles, including French manicures and bold reds. Whether you’re looking for understated sophistication or something more striking, winter nails have something for everyone.
Ganache Nails: A Velvety Winter Delight
Inspired by the indulgence of dark chocolate, ganache nails are the standout trend this winter. Nail artist Sofiia Mazur describes the color as a rich, velvety brown that exudes warmth and luxury. Shades like Red Iguana’s Ganache gel and Dazzle Dry’s Fringe perfectly capture this tone, offering a deep, subtle elegance. Ideal for cold weather, ganache nails pair beautifully with gold jewelry or neutral outfits, creating a chic yet understated look. Whether you’re dressed up for an evening out or keeping things casual, this color brings a sense of quiet confidence to any ensemble.
Muted Berry Shades: Subtle Sophistication
This winter, deeper, grounded hues are making their mark. Juanita Huber-Millet, founder of Townhouse Salons, notes that muted berry tones, along with espresso browns and soft mauves, are gaining popularity. These shades offer a perfect balance of warmth and sophistication, providing a polished, everyday look that still feels chic. Muted berry shades are a refined alternative to brighter reds, offering richness and depth without overwhelming the manicure. They are perfect for those looking to embrace a timeless yet contemporary winter style.
The Rise of Soft, Barely-There Shades
This season also brings a desire for clarity and calm, reflected in the growing popularity of soft, barely-there nail shades. Huber-Millet notes the rise of milky hues, cool neutrals, and gentle pastels, offering a fresh, clean feeling after the darker tones of autumn. Shades like Coconut Milk and Glazed Marshmallow from the Townhouse Flawless Collection are perfect for this winter trend. These colors provide a restorative, minimalist approach to nail care, with pink-toned neutrals and classic French tips adding timeless appeal.
| Shade | Description | Best Pairings |
|---|---|---|
| Ganache Nails | A rich, velvety brown reminiscent of melted dark chocolate. | Gold jewelry, neutral outfits, black ensembles. |
| Muted Berry | Deep, grounded tones like mauve and berry offer sophistication. | Casual wear, office outfits, elegant evenings. |
| Light Ocean Blue | Soft, pearlescent blue with a luminous finish, bringing light to winter. | Winter coats, soft sweaters, casual looks. |
| Deep Navy Blue | Rich navy tones that offer a calming reset post-holidays. | Special occasions, office attire, weekend looks. |
