The Pre-Party Manicure Rush is on – These are the Festive Designs Trending Now
Getting a manicure is high on the festive to-do list, with salons filling up as party season kicks off. From glittery tips to classic Christmas prints, beauty lovers are searching for the perfect look, with global searches for “Christmas nails” jumping 500% in the past month.
To help you choose your next festive set, I have worked with YCB to analyse the most-searched nail designs to reveal what’s trending this Christmas.
Most Popular Christmas Nail Trends
- Candy Cane Nails – 614%
- Holly Nails – 566%
- Red french tip nails – 384%
- Reindeer Nails 300%
- Santa Hat Nails – 257%
- Snowman Nails -222%
Candy Cane Nails – 614%
Almost a Christmas staple when it comes to nail designs, Candy Cane nails have unsurprisingly exploded in popularity again this month.
The red and white swirl brings holiday nostalgia and feels fun without being over the top. To keep it classy, try just one candy cane-themed nail, or go all out with the red and white twist across your whole manicure for a bold festive look.
Holly Nails – 566%
If you’re after something a little more elegant, holly nails are a great option. They’ve spiked on Pinterest trends this year, thanks to their perfect balance of classic and traditional. The tiny green leaves and red berries add a festive detail without overwhelming the entire look.
For the best result, choose a milky nude or soft pink base. Paint two small leaf shapes in deep green, then add three red berry dots in the centre.
To add extra depth, include a lighter green stroke down each leaf. Keeping the design minimal on one or two nails gives it a timeless and modern feel.
Red french tip nails – 384%
If you’re after a versatile festive look, red French tips are a great choice. They’re a seasonal twist on a classic style that you can wear from early December through to the New Year.
To recreate the look, apply a nude base and add a clean curved red tip. For something bolder, paint a thicker French line. To elevate the design further, try a double French tip or a subtle red shimmer finish.
Reindeer Nails 300%
Reindeer nails are another fun choice this year. They’re playful, perfect for mix-and-match sets, and bring instant festive personality.
For a subtle look, use a beige nude or soft brown base. Then, paint a small oval for the face, add black dots for the eyes, and a red dot for the shiny nose. Pair a single reindeer nail with solid red or glitter nails for a well-balanced set.
Santa Hat Nails – 257%
Santa hat nails have been popular for a few years, so it’s no surprise to see another spike in interest.
They’re a festive twist on a classic French manicure that still feels minimal. Start with a nude, mint, or classic red base. Paint a red triangle near the tip for the hat, then add a thin white band at the base and a white dot on top for the pom-pom. Keeping it small and simple creates a chic, understated finish.
Snowman Nails -222%
In recent years, there’s been a rise in popularity for icy blue and snow-themed nails, which makes snowman nails a fitting winter trend. Their soft shapes and colours suit the current ‘cute core’ direction we’re seeing in beauty.
To achieve the look, use a blue, milky white or nude base. Paint two stacked white circles, then add black dots for the eyes and buttons and an orange triangle for the nose. For a subtle version, place the snowman on just one ring finger and paint the rest in a matching solid shade.
Written by Franchesca Villar, Beauty Expert at Cosmetify