It really never stops being exhilarating, picking out a new nail colour each time our chipped previous polish gets a little too worse-for-wear to acceptably walk around with (and let’s face it, in a feat of sheer laziness we’ll often tack an extra week or two onto that length of time where possible). Walk into any local nail salon or peruse any brick-and-mortar polish purveyor and you’ll be overwhelmed by colour choices, finishes and nail art options – and who really has the time or energy to scour all of them these days? There are probably 600 near-identical cherry reds to sort through and half the time, not one of them feels quite ‘us’ anyway.
At the end of the day, we just want something that looks damn good, wears beautifully and garners the odd compliment or two (who doesn’t?). And heading into the colder months, we’re looking to shed the bright pinks and neon hues for something a little softer, a little more understated. This season, we’re leaning into muted mossy greens, calming grey-blues, soft milky whites, and sultry sparkling crimsons, as well as sheer, pearlescent finishes and high-shine blacks this winter – favouring nail lacquers and enamels that feel just a pinch more sophisticated, but that don’t lose that air of fun and playfulness that we embraced over the hot summer months.
Below, see our favourite nail colour trends for winter 2025, plus the colours you need to achieve the look from our favourite nail polish brands. Consider it our guide to some unique winter nail colours that will hopefully help to minimise the anxiety of colour selection. You’re welcome.
Moss green
If you ask us, we’re tapping into nature with moss green nails for Winter 2025 with their earthy, understated elegance. Softer than forest green but just as striking, this muted hue brings a cozy, nature-inspired twist to cold-weather style.
O.P.I Infinite Shine in ‘Olive For Green’
CHANEL Le Vernis in ‘197 Artiste’
ESSIE Expressie Quick-Dry Nail Polish in ‘Precious Cargo’
Chocolate brown
The food-ification of beauty trends continues, and our nails are no exception. For your next manicure, take your cues from Pantone’s Colour of the Year, Mocha Mousse, and opt for warm, velvety hues that evoke the comforting richness of hot chocolate and warm coffee.
Essie Nail Polish in ‘No To-Do’
Sally Hansen Miracle Gel in ‘Been There, Dune That’
Sephora Collection Nail Polish in ‘802 Stone Taupe’
Vampy Burgundy and Bourdeaux Red
No need to reinvent the wheel. Rich, sultry, and endlessly sophisticated, these deep, velvety reds are classics for a reason. Bring a luxe, mysterious vibe to your nails, and add drama to any look, from cosy nights and glamorous evenings alike.
OPI Nail Lacquer in ‘Malaga Wine’
Sephora Collection Nail Polish in ‘204 Black Wine’
CHANEL Le Vernis in ‘155 Rouge Noir’
Milky hues and iridescent finishes
Soft, creamy shades paired with a shimmering, pearl-like glow create nails that feel light, dreamy, and effortlessly elegant—perfect for brightening up the chilly season with a subtle pop.
Nails.Inc World’s Your Oyster Babe Iridescent Nail Polish
Chanel Le Vernis in Sunlight
J Hannah Nail Polish in Akoya
Inky blue
Deep navy blue nails bring a sleek, modern edge to winter style. This rich, midnight shade is the perfect alternative to black—timeless, versatile, and effortlessly cool for everything from everyday wear to special occasions.
Sally Hansen Insta-Dri in ‘Midnight Drive’
Essie Expressie Nail Polish in ‘No. 352 Feel The Hype’
CHANEL Le Vernis in ‘127 Fugueuse’
Winter nail inspiration
Need a little help visualising your next set of nails? We’ve got you covered. Below, see our favourite winter nail inspiration.
