With three months of minimal sunlight and freezing temperatures, it’s only natural for your winter beauty to lean toward dark and moody tones. Think vampy oxblood lipstick and smudgy, smoky kohl liner—these are just a couple of seasonal makeup staples. Unsurprisingly, you might find yourself reaching for similar colors for your nails as well. However, if you’re looking to break out of a manicure rut or simply want to refresh your go-to shade this year, why not treat yourself to one of the best winter nail colors of 2025?
If you prefer to stick with seasonally appropriate hues, our favorite polishes include timeless classics like OPI’s vibrant Big Apple Red and Deborah Lippmann’s festive Ruby Red Slippers. For those feeling adventurous and wanting to try something unexpected, there are trendy options like Essie’s buttery Atelier At The Bay and JINsoon’s cool, pottery-inspired Sea Clay. No matter which direction you choose, you can expect to receive compliments from your barista, coworker, and sister about your stunning winter nail polish.
Ahead, we share the must-have nail polish colors for winter 2025 that everyone will be wearing all season long. Keep reading to discover your next perfect manicure shade!
1. OPI—Nail Lacquer in Big Apple Red
“I only recently became a red nail girlie, and OPI’s Big Apple Red is the perfect shade. I love its vibrancy, and the blue undercurrent creates a tint that beautifully contrasts my skin tone.” – Jordan Murray, Associate Beauty Editor, BDG.
The Allure of Big Apple Red
OPI’s Big Apple Red is more than just a nail polish; it’s a classic statement color that embodies confidence and sophistication. This vibrant red is reminiscent of the iconic city it’s named after, capturing the energy and excitement of New York. Whether you’re heading to a holiday party or simply want to elevate your everyday look, this shade is versatile enough to suit any occasion.
Perfect for Every Skin Tone
One of the standout features of Big Apple Red is its blue undertone, which enhances its vibrancy and makes it universally flattering. This tint allows the polish to complement a wide range of skin tones, from fair to deep complexions. As Jordan mentions, the contrast it provides can make your hands look elegant and polished, drawing attention to your nails without being overpowering.
Application and Longevity
When it comes to application, OPI is known for its high-quality formulas that glide smoothly and provide excellent coverage. Big Apple Red is no exception; it typically requires just two coats for a rich, opaque finish. Additionally, OPI nail lacquers are designed for durability, meaning you can enjoy your stunning manicure for days without worrying about chipping or fading.
Styling Tips
To make the most of your Big Apple Red manicure, consider pairing it with neutral or monochromatic outfits to let your nails take center stage. This shade works beautifully with classic black or white ensembles, adding a pop of color that can elevate your overall look. For a more playful approach, try mixing and matching with other bold colors or patterns in your wardrobe.
2. JINsoon—Nail Polish in Sea Clay
“Come winter, I typically stick to oxblood or black manicures, but I reach for this steel blue polish whenever I want to take a break from my go-to shades. It’s seasonally appropriate and goes with every outfit, but it feels more exciting than the run-of-the-mill neutral colors.” – Erin Lukas.
A Refreshing Change for Winter
JINsoon’s Sea Clay offers a refreshing alternative to the traditional winter color palette. While many gravitate towards deep reds and blacks during the colder months, this steel blue shade provides a unique twist that still feels seasonally appropriate. It’s the perfect choice for those looking to break away from the usual dark hues while still maintaining a sophisticated look.
Versatility in Styling
One of the standout features of Sea Clay is its versatility. This shade pairs beautifully with a wide range of outfits, from casual wear to more formal attire. Whether you’re dressing up for a holiday party or keeping it casual for a day out, Sea Clay complements various styles and colors, making it an excellent addition to your winter wardrobe. Its muted yet striking tone adds a touch of elegance without overwhelming your overall look.
Quality and Application
JINsoon is known for its high-quality formulations, and Sea Clay is no exception. The polish glides on smoothly, providing even coverage with just two coats. The formula is designed to be long-lasting, ensuring that your manicure remains chip-free and vibrant throughout the winter season. Additionally, JINsoon polishes are free from harmful chemicals, making them a healthier choice for your nails.
A Break from the Norm
As Erin mentions, Sea Clay feels more exciting than typical neutral colors. This shade allows you to express your individuality while still adhering to the seasonal aesthetic. It’s a great way to experiment with color without straying too far from the classic winter palette. If you’re someone who enjoys trying new trends, Sea Clay is an excellent option to explore.
From my perspective, JINsoon’s Sea Clay is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to add a bit of flair to their winter manicure. I appreciate how this shade strikes a balance between being bold and understated. It’s refreshing to see a color that feels unique yet still fits seamlessly into the winter aesthetic.
I also love the idea of using Sea Clay as a base for nail art. Its cool undertones can serve as a beautiful backdrop for winter-themed designs, such as snowflakes or geometric patterns. This versatility allows for creativity while still keeping the overall look sophisticated.
Moreover, I find that wearing a color like Sea Clay can spark conversations. It’s a shade that stands out without being overly flashy, making it a great conversation starter. I can imagine receiving compliments from friends and even strangers, which adds to the joy of wearing it.
3. Olive & June—Gel Polish in Plaza
“Is it purple? Is it red? I love that this deep mulberry shade from Olive & June’s new gel polish system is undefinable. Yet it still feels so appropriate and aligned with winter without being too on-the-nose. Also, it must be said that I love the finish and staying power of these gel formulas. They don’t peel or dull, which isn’t true about other at-home gel systems I’ve tried.” – Angela Melero.
The Allure of Plaza
Olive & June’s Gel Polish in Plaza is a captivating deep mulberry shade that beautifully straddles the line between purple and red. This unique color offers a sophisticated twist on traditional winter hues, making it an excellent choice for those who want to stand out without resorting to overly bright or typical seasonal colors. Its undefinable quality adds an element of intrigue, allowing wearers to express their individuality while still embracing the winter aesthetic.
Impressive Formula and Application
Angela highlights the impressive finish and staying power of Olive & June’s gel formulas, and I couldn’t agree more. The application process is smooth, and the gel polish provides a high-shine finish that rivals salon-quality manicures. Unlike some at-home gel systems that can peel or dull over time, Plaza maintains its vibrant look, ensuring that your manicure stays fresh and beautiful for days on end.
4. Essie—Gel Couture Longwear Nail Polish in Atelier At The Bay
“There’s nothing I hate more than the gloomy winter weather. So as a way to boost my mood, I’ll be leaning into this cheery butter yellow (another trending color!) polish from Essie.” – Kelsey Stewart
Brightening Up Winter
Essie’s Gel Couture Longwear Nail Polish in Atelier At The Bay is a delightful butter-yellow shade that serves as a perfect antidote to the dreary winter months. Kelsey’s sentiment resonates with many of us who find ourselves longing for a splash of color during the colder, gloomier days. This cheerful hue not only brightens up your nails but also lifts your spirits, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to add a bit of sunshine to their winter beauty routine.
The Trend of Yellow
Yellow is emerging as a trending color this season, and Atelier At The Bay embodies this trend beautifully. Its soft, buttery tone is versatile enough to complement a variety of outfits, from casual wear to more polished ensembles. Whether you’re dressing up for a holiday party or simply running errands, this shade adds a playful touch that can elevate any look.
Longwear Formula
One of the standout features of Essie’s Gel Couture line is its longwear formula. This polish is designed to provide a salon-quality finish that lasts, making it perfect for those who want their manicures to withstand the test of time. The application is smooth and easy, allowing for a flawless finish with just two coats. Plus, the gel-like shine ensures that your nails look vibrant and fresh for days.
Additionally, I think this butter yellow polish would pair beautifully with other pastel shades for a fun, multi-colored manicure. Imagine combining it with soft pinks or mint greens for a playful, spring-inspired look that still feels appropriate for winter.
5. Deborah Lippmann—Gel Lab Pro Color Nail Polish in Ruby Slippers
“While the holiday season is certainly the sparkliest time of year, this time, I’m embracing bolder colors and patterns instead of sequins. But my festive ‘fit wouldn’t be complete without a little shimmer, so I’m wearing this ruby glitter polish for all my seasonal soirées.” – Meguire Hennes.
Embracing Boldness with a Touch of Sparkle
Deborah Lippmann’s Gel Lab Pro Color Nail Polish in Ruby Slippers is the perfect blend of boldness and festive shimmer. As Meguire points out, while the holiday season is often associated with sequins and traditional sparkles, Ruby Slippers offers a refreshing take on festive nails. This rich ruby glitter polish allows you to embrace vibrant colors while still adding that essential touch of sparkle, making it an ideal choice for holiday gatherings and celebrations.
High-Quality Formula
Deborah Lippmann is renowned for her high-quality nail products, and the Gel Lab Pro formula is no exception. This polish provides a gel-like finish that is both long-lasting and chip-resistant, ensuring that your manicure remains flawless throughout the festivities. The application is smooth and easy, allowing for even coverage with just two coats. Plus, the formula is free from harmful chemicals, making it a healthier choice for your nails.
Additionally, I think this ruby glitter polish would pair beautifully with other festive colors, such as gold or silver accents. Imagine combining Ruby Slippers with a gold metallic polish for a stunning ombre effect or using it as an accent nail alongside a classic red or green. This versatility allows for creativity while still maintaining a cohesive holiday look.
6. Hermès—Nail Polish in Vert Bronze
“Chocolate mousse this, cherry mocha that. I love the luxe look of this deep khaki polish with gray undertones. Mark my words: it’ll be the next trending color following all of these viral brown shades.” – EL.
A Luxurious Take on Khaki
Hermès Nail Polish in Vert Bronze offers a sophisticated twist on the classic khaki shade, infused with gray undertones that give it a unique depth. As EL points out, this deep hue exudes a luxe aesthetic that sets it apart from typical winter colors. It’s a perfect choice for those who want to embrace the current trend of earthy tones while still standing out with a distinctive polish.
The Trend of Earthy Tones
With the rise of viral brown shades dominating the beauty scene, Vert Bronze is poised to be the next big thing. This color captures the essence of the earthy palette that has become increasingly popular, making it a versatile option for various occasions. Whether you’re dressing up for a formal event or keeping it casual, this deep khaki shade can complement a wide range of outfits, adding a touch of elegance to your look.
High-Quality Formula
I think this khaki polish would pair beautifully with other earthy tones, such as terracotta or olive green. Imagine combining Vert Bronze with a warm terracotta for a chic, monochromatic look or using it as an accent nail alongside a soft beige. This versatility allows for creativity while maintaining a sophisticated aesthetic.
Moreover, the luxurious feel of Hermès products adds an extra layer of enjoyment when wearing this polish. Knowing that you’re sporting a high-quality, beautifully crafted product can elevate your overall experience and confidence.
7. Dior—Le Vernis in Nuit
“I’m hopping on the burgundy color train this winter, all the way down to my nail polish. This rich shade from Dior is stunning and will pair well with my chunky silver rings.” – KS.
Embracing the Burgundy Trend
Dior’s Le Vernis in Nuit is a luxurious burgundy shade that perfectly captures the essence of winter. As KS notes, this rich color is not only on-trend but also adds a touch of sophistication to any look. Burgundy has become a staple for the colder months, and Nuit exemplifies this trend beautifully, making it an ideal choice for those looking to elevate their nail game this season.
Application Tips for a Flawless Finish
To achieve the best results with Dior Le Vernis in Nuit, consider the following application tips:
Prep Your Nails: Start with clean, dry nails. Remove any old polish and push back your cuticles. A good base coat can also help protect your nails and enhance the longevity of your manicure.
Apply Thin Coats: For a smooth finish, apply thin layers of polish. Start with a base coat, followed by two coats of Nuit, allowing each layer to dry before applying the next. This technique helps prevent bubbling and ensures an even application.
Finish with a Top Coat: To enhance the shine and durability of your manicure, finish with a high-quality top coat. This step not only adds extra gloss but also helps prevent chipping, keeping your nails looking fresh for longer.
Creative Nail Art Ideas
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider using Nuit as a base for some creative nail art. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:
Accent Nails: Paint one or two nails on each hand with a contrasting color, such as a bar of metallic gold or silver, while keeping the rest in Nuit. This creates a chic and modern look that draws attention to your manicure.
Geometric Designs: Use nail tape to create geometric patterns on your nails. Paint over the tape with a metallic shade, then remove the tape to reveal a stylish design that showcases both Nuit and the contrasting color.
Matte Finish: For a trendy twist, apply a matte top coat over Nuit. This transforms the glossy finish into a sophisticated matte look, perfect for a more understated yet elegant style.
8. Manucurist—Green Natural Nail Polish in Midnight
“As much as I love a red and green moment in the winter, this season, I’m into this dark blue color from Manicurist. I needed a shade that felt seasonal far past the Christmas day cutoff, and this option does not disappoint.” – MH.
A Seasonal Shift to Dark Blue
Manucurist’s Green Natural Nail Polish in Midnight is a stunning dark blue shade that perfectly captures the essence of winter without being tied to the traditional holiday palette. As MH points out, while red and green are classic winter colors, Midnight offers a refreshing alternative that feels both sophisticated and seasonally appropriate. This deep hue is ideal for those looking to embrace a more modern take on winter nail colors, allowing for versatility that extends well beyond the holiday season.
Eco-Friendly Formula
One of the standout features of Manucurist’s Green Natural Nail Polish is its commitment to eco-friendly ingredients. The formula is made with 84% natural origin ingredients, making it a healthier choice for your nails and the environment. This means you can enjoy a beautiful manicure without compromising on your values. The polish is also free from harmful chemicals commonly found in traditional nail polishes, such as toluene, formaldehyde, and phthalates.
9. Londontown—Lakur Enhanced Nail Colour in Oud Mood
“I love the hot chocolate-y look of this polish. It’s got a creamy, velvety finish that’s almost good enough to eat (almost!). It’s perfect for the cozy season and a nice respite from the glitzy, bold holiday hues that everyone is donning at this time of year.” – AM.
The Comfort of Oud Mood
Londontown’s Lakur Enhanced Nail Colour in Oud Mood is a delightful shade that embodies the warmth and comfort of the cozy season. As AM describes, this polish has a rich, hot chocolate-like appearance that evokes feelings of indulgence and relaxation. The creamy, velvety finish adds a touch of sophistication, making it an ideal choice for those looking to embrace a more understated yet elegant look during the winter months.
High-Quality Formula
From my perspective, Londontown’s Oud Mood is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to embrace a cozy and sophisticated winter shade. I love how this polish can evoke feelings of warmth and comfort, making it perfect for snuggling up with a good book or enjoying a hot drink by the fire.
I also think Oud Mood would pair beautifully with warm, earthy tones in your wardrobe. Imagine wearing this polish with a soft beige sweater or a rich burgundy scarf for a chic, coordinated look. The deep, chocolatey hue can add a touch of elegance to any outfit, making it a versatile addition to your nail collection.
Moreover, the nourishing formula of Londontown’s Lakur is a significant advantage. As someone who values self-care, knowing that I can enjoy a beautiful manicure while also promoting healthy nails is incredibly appealing. It allows me to indulge in a little luxury without compromising on nail health.
10. Essie—Luxeffects Nail Polish in Summit of Style
“I am truly a sucker for anything sparkly, and nothing screams ‘merry and bright’ more than a gold glitter polish. Your nails will look so pretty when they catch the light, and if you wear gold jewelry, the color coordination is so satisfying.” – JM.
The Magic of Gold Glitter
Essie’s Luxeffects Nail Polish in Summit of Style is the epitome of festive glamour. As JM perfectly captures, this gold glitter polish is a must-have for anyone looking to add a touch of sparkle to their winter manicure. The shimmering gold hue not only embodies the spirit of the holiday season but also elevates any look, making it a go-to choice for parties, celebrations, or simply to brighten up your day.
High-Quality Formula
Essie is known for its high-quality nail products, and the Luxeffects formula is no exception. Summit of Style glides on smoothly, providing even coverage with a stunning glitter finish. The polish is designed to be long-lasting, ensuring that your festive manicure remains chip-free and vibrant throughout the holiday season. Additionally, the formula is easy to remove, which is a significant advantage when dealing with glitter polishes that can sometimes be tricky to take off.
I also think this polish would pair beautifully with gold jewelry, as JM mentioned. The coordination between your nails and accessories creates a cohesive and polished appearance that is sure to turn heads. Imagine wearing this glittery polish with a statement gold necklace or chunky earrings for a truly glamorous look.
Moreover, the joy of wearing a sparkly polish like Summit of Style can’t be overstated. There’s something inherently uplifting about glitter that can brighten your mood, especially during the colder months. It’s a simple way to add a little joy and celebration to your everyday routine.