There is always some magic about the colder months, right? As the days become shorter and the nights become longer, then our beauty selections become more somber and gloomy in their tones. However, here is the point: dark does not necessarily mean dull. Actually, the trends in nail colors of this season have been the reverse, dark colors and elaborate patterns are creating the buzz you wish to flaunt even when you are holding a hot cup of coffee in your bulky mittens. Therefore, what are the colors and finishes to take over the nail scene in 2025-2026? And how can we be able to transform these thoughts into an everyday wear but maintaining them stylish and yet multipurpose? Now, we can see some of the looks that are fashionable and wearable at the same time.
Galaxy Nails
Something hypnotic about a manicure that would make you think you are taking the sky at night in your fingertips. It is a gradient design combining purple, magenta and glimpses of yellow into an ombre of a cosmic tint and all this is interwoven with some fine glitter that resembles stars. It is audacious but classy, that type of appearance that does not scream but catches your eye. I admire the way this design integrates the mystery and the brightness of winter night.
I would use gel polishes that have high pigmentation to achieve this effect. There are beautiful shades in purple-to-pink family in brands such as OPI and Essie, and a touch of holographic topcoat such as that of Holo Taco called Scattered Holo Taco is also a great add-on to the effect of the stars. The colors are even more vivid when applied to a black base coat.
It is not as difficult as it appears to be. I would begin with a dark background and tap on top with a sponge with darker to lighter colours. Betina Goldstein, a celebrity nail artist, tends to stress the art of layering to bring the nail art to life, and this nail design makes her right. Seal it off with gloss or matte finish with the required amount of drama.
Personally, the style seems like the ideal winter party manicure that is glam enough to wear on New Year Eve and at the same time, elegant enough to wear it on a slimmer evening together with an oversized sweater. It is one of those nail styles that seems to be a piece of jewelry.
Blue With Snowflake Accent Midnight
Deep blue nails were always a winter feature, yet with tiny snowflakes on them, they turn immediately seasonal and childish. The combination in this design is a blend of colors in navy and icy-aqua with sharp outlines of snowflakes on the darker grounds. It is not only celebratory but is also classy, and such a combination is not that simple to achieve.
The best shades for this look? The classic essentials of OPI like Russian Navy or Essie like arctic blue are undisputable, and when combined with a fine-tip white nail art pen (a brand such as Sally Hansen has a good one) it makes the process of creating snowflakes less daunting. To make it last long, I would fix it with the topcoat of Seche Vite that dries quickly.
To recreate, I would paint alternating nails with navy and blue that is less dark so that there is a sense of depth. When dry I would add the details of the snowflakes carefully in stamping plate or free hand in case you have a steady hand. This is an excellent example of the principle, and celebrity nail pro Julie Kandalec tends to have little designs on a few nails, which makes the entire manicure feel elevated.
The thing which I love about this manicure is that it is very versatile. It is seasonal enough to be used during holiday get-togethers yet not very theme-based, therefore it will not seem out of place in February. It is a comfortable but stylish choice to any person who is fond of winter classics.
Metallic Violet Shine
That is why violet metallics keep reappearing season after season they put nails on the spot and make them look modern, bold, and glamorous. This manicure has a mirror-like effect which changes with the light and includes traces of lavender and plum. It is glossy and futuristic and yet it is on the basis of a traditional winter palette.
In order to get this finish, I would tend to use chrome powders or metallic polishes. Born Pretty produces the chrome powders in purple colours and when it is applied on a black gel base, the colour payoff is phenomenal. The other alternative is the ultra-metallic line by ILNP that produces intensity without the use of powders.
Layering is the key to this style, which is patient. When I have used the black gel base I would buff the chrome powder and apply a no-wipe topcoat to get that glassy look. The shine is all in the sealing, as nail artist Tom Bachik likes to remind his customers or clients to ensure that they do not dull the metallic finish.
Personally, I believe this is the manicure every person should get when they desire a glamorous look on their nails without extra decorations. It is too daring to wear alone and looks amazing with darker winter clothes, particularly all-black clothes, or jeweled-colored dresses.
Black and Nude Butterfly Art
A classic black polish is infused with cute butterfly accents on bare bases, and this design is graceful to the utmost. It is sharp and at the same time subtle and both gothic and romantic in a way. It is both unique and not overpowering since the glossy black nails are balanced with the complex art.
In this instance of a manicure, I would use a high pigment black polish such as the Essie black polish which is called licorice, and a sheer nude base. It is possible to reproduce the pattern of a butterfly at home using nail stamping kits or finer nail art brushes. To give them a bit of shimmer makes the wings look like they are alive almost a surprise that they are about to find when they shine.
This appearance is achieved by wearing this nail with alternating full glossy black and nude with butterfly patterns on them. The work begins with a solid nude background, which makes it stand out. The swirls and wings will be precise with the help of black stamping polish. A gel topcoat is added to complete the entire design and make it look professional.
Here, the thing that I like is that this manicure is versatile. It is winter but not scream seasonal meaning that you can easily wear it way into spring. And it is that story telling of it, like your nails are pulling bits of art, little bits, all delicate yet effective.
Hearts Philanthropy Royal Blue
Blue nails are always a statement, though in this case, accompanied by silver accents, they have a festive almost royal quality. This design is a metallic silver and snowflakes design with an outspoken cobalt blue and this is what one would immediately associate with joy and happiness with regards to nail design.
This is best made with a rich blue polish such as Essies Butler Please polish or OPI Dating a Royal. In the case of the silver accents, I would use the stamping foils or use a metallic based polish like the Silver Sweep by Sally Hansen. They make a contrast together that is playful and elegant.
The procedures are not complicated but they are to be followed carefully. Once the nails were painted blue, I would put the silver designs in strategic places on the nails- leaving some of the nails plain and allowing others to carry more ornamentation. Nail artist Chaun Legend frequently declares that balance is the most important in the addition of metallic accents; too many will, in fact, overwhelm, and a few well-applied contacts will create harmony.
In my opinion, this nail polish will be ideal in the middle of the winter. It is light-hearted without being corny and would go well with both loose sweaters and finer evening attire. I would honestly leave this one in rotation throughout the season, it makes me smile.
Festive Gradient Elegance
Something new and old is so perfect about the combination of deep green, ruby red and a dusting of gold. The design itself seems very Christmassy at a glance, but I like that this design does not have to be used only during the month of December, and you can use it all of winter and still have a feeling that your hands are dressed up. The gradient method creates a combination of shades that are not too loud and make a statement, nonetheless. It is one of those that reflects the light in an amazing manner when one is holding a mug of hot cocoa.
I would pick up such polishes as OPI Stay Off the Lawn! (that forest green) OPI Big Apple Red and some fine gold glitter topcoat such as Essie Summit of Style to achieve this finish. This look is so successful due to the balance between cream formulas and a metallic sparkle. An effective glossy topcoat such as Seche Vite also makes the gradient smooth, I have discovered.
It is remarkably easy to make this style at home. I tend to paint the halves of red and green first, then apply a makeup sponge to the two colors and dab the colors into one another before they dry. One of the many tips that nail artist Betina Goldstein has taught us is to apply in layers, add in the pigment- this way, you do not get the bleeding effect that you experience when you are in a hurry. A glowing highlight intended to be placed over the meeting line is better tapped over with a small brush over the glitter of gold.
As a person, I love the versatility of this manicure. I had something like it last season during a New Year dinner and despite the fact that my wardrobe was extremely simple people still saw my nails. At times that is all that one requires to feel together.
Chic Black and Gold Bows
Black and gold is a winning combination in any case, but introducing bows into the picture makes the entire manicure cute and naughty. This is a beautiful and fanciful design that one would hardly associate with a winter nail design. It immediately recalls to me the act of opening gifts, the feeling of that luxurious moment with the satin ribbon, just with nails.
This is easily made of materials. The base is made with a solid glossy black polish, such as Chanel Le Vernis in Pure Black. In the case of the gold, Zoya Ziv is a high-shimmer polish that can be used, and the bows can be created using nail art pens or fine brushes. Precision painting is also a daunting process, and nail stickers provide a simple short cut, and in truth, I have resorted to them more than once when it comes to wanting to avoid shaky lines.
The secret of the bows popping is in the layering. I would do two layers of black, two of gold wherever it was necessary, and then allow it to dry, and then paint on the bow designs. I happened to watch celebrity manicurist Elle Gerstein do a video where she said that the secret to bold nail art is to wait until it dried, otherwise you will blur the lines and wash out the design.
I like best about this appearance is that it changes according to what you wear. It glamorizes with a careless sweater. It is party-ready with a little black dress. It is that type of nail art that ought to work hard but not that hard.
Cosmic Winter Lights
I am not alone in thinking that winter skies are sometimes no less magic than summer sunsets. This manicure embodies that deep dark foundation with violet, green, and golden light streaks, bordering on the verge of glowing. It possesses that aurora borealis quality and, frankly speaking, it is the type of nail art that makes you look at some hands a little longer than as before.
A few jewel-colored finishes such as Essie Bahama Mama to plum, a bright green like Sally Hansen Emerald Blaze, and a fine cosmic glitter topcoat like ILNP Mega (L) are all you need in this case. Everything depends on the layered effect, the look cannot be made without the colors being slightly transparent in places.
In making my own recreation at home, I would use a small piece of torn makeup sponge or even a thin sponge to tap the shades on the black base lightly. It provides soft diffused appearance rather than sharp lines. This is because, nail artist Tom Bachik has once said that what makes galaxy nails effective is creating a sense of depth, it is advisable to create a little bit at a time than attempting to find one huge stroke.
It is magical to have this design when one wears it during winter. I once did it in some form of a ski trip, and when everybody had taken out plain polish, I seemed to be in the presence of the northern lights right in my fingertips. Who does not require some magic on grey days?
Midnight Shimmer
There is a lot written in a black manicure with slight shimmer and that is why I adore simplicity more than complexity. In this case, the nails are glossy black and two accent nails are in shine of silver. It is an ideal balance point between plain and celebratory, such as jewellery without being excessive.
Essie Licorice is my kit staple, however, when I want black, like the pure black, OPI This Shade Is Ornamental! is a great option, and when I need some silver sparkle, it is OPI This Shade Is Ornamental! To create a more daring foil look, it is also possible to apply chrome powders to a tacky surface – nail techs have been using this technique on the backstage at shows since seasons ago.
I would begin with two coats of black at home, cure when using gel then silver on only two fingers. To give it an additional polished look, I prefer to use one gem or stud on the cuticle, covered with the topcoat. Nail pro Jin Soon had once remarked that a little crystal is a kind of jewelry to your hands, and it is so true, it makes even the cruddenest manicure work classy.
I put a look like this on at an office holiday party and it was just the right mix not too flashy and yet not boring. It is my reminder that you do not necessarily require entire nail art to look like your hands are dressed.
Classic Crimson Winter
The red nails are never out of season and during winter they gain a certain power. It is a deep crimson, a little gleamy shade which hits on the boundary between classic and celebratory. It is one of those manicures that make you feel more confident immediately as you have red lipstick on.
I like OPI Big Apple Red, but to go deeper into the analysis, Essie Bordeaux and the top drop of Deborah Lippmann Ruby Red Slippers shimmer can give me almost the same feeling. It is all about trying on a red that compliments your skin, – warmer reds are better on the golden tone and cooler reds are stunning on fair or pinker tones.
The process of this one is easy, though, base coat, two layers of red, a layer of shimmer topcoat and a high-shine finisher. Deborah Lippmann, a celebrity nail artist, has always maintained that red nails must appear like lacquered candy – and that is what I intend to do with mine.
I always used to return to red nails since it has never betrayed me. I always hit the nail on the head whether I am wearing jeans and sweater or going to a dinner in clothes. It is a minor upscale luxury that will never go out of fashion.
Golden Midnight Ombre
The black and gold combination are timeless: it is like the little black dress made a manicure. This design fuses a jet-black base into molten golden points, and a faint dusting of luster that reflects the light like the champagne bubbles in the middle of the night. It is the type of appearance that would make you pick up a glass of prosecco to even admire the sparkle.
I have been so lucky to make OPI Black Onyx the base and Essie Good as Gold blended in the edges to accomplish this. In the case of the glitter fade, the lightweight holographic toppers by ILNP are magnificent in that they add a slight amount of the twinkle without making the contrast too dark. In case you desire that salon finish, there will be no compromise on a gel top coat, which will solidly seal the gradient.
At home, when I attempted this style, the most difficult task was to blend the black to the metallic one without creating harsh lines. A little sponge makeup sponger was more effective at dabbing the gradient that I discovered a pro tip in one of the nail features in Allure last year. The result? A mani which looked like I made a reservation, even when I was in my own kitchen, with a cup of cocoa next to me.
To be honest, it is one of such designs which I come back to every winter. It is not too fussy yet it is glamorous, and it matches well with heavy layers of sweaters, as well as evening dresses.
Frosty Blue Sparkle
Nails of a cool-toned shade always have their time in the winter, whereas this slate-blue with glitter scattered can be considered something so fresh in 2025. It is tender, but theatrical, such as the night sky sprinkled with snowy stars. The arrangement of glitter attracts the eye upwards hence movement that ensures that the color is not flat.
To achieve this color, one will start with Zoya Ryan or Essie Truth or Barely Blue. I also have observed manicurists apply CND Vinylux to Denim Patch with loose iridescent glitter on top to give it extra dimension. The peel-off base coat is also worth the investment when you apply thick glitters, and it is painless to take off.
I prefer to apply the glitter onto unpainted tacky polish. Nail stylist Jin Soon has said in interviews that a manicure can be turned into jewelry by the strategic use of glitter, and I absolutely agree. Covering the entire nail is not the thing it is the breathing of the shimmer over the solid base.
Whenever I put on this colour any other person will always question me where I had my nails done. Something about blue, with sparkle, is always mysterious, even celestial you are carrying a bit of winter night around all the time.
Deep Sapphire Fade
There is none like sapphire blue screaming dark winter nails. This construction incorporates an opulence of a midnight blue into teal glitter that shines like frozen lakes with the moonlight. It is a more daring option than traditional navy, but that is precisely why I adore it because it is assertive, bold, and unashamedly bright.
The saturated depth is provided by brands such as OPI Russian Navy or Essie Aruba Blue and the twinkle is provided by either China Glaze Fairy Dust or ILNP teal holographic flakes. It is all about the layers in this case: we apply two layers of the blue to achieve the solidity, and apply the gradient glitter to the tips with a sponge to create the smooth fade effect.
The first time I tried this is because of a suggestion of celebrity manicurist Tom Bachik, who always insists on applying multiple layers when using deep colors. It causes no streaks, he says, and leaves the finish clear and he is correct. Thick coats are dulling the shine, however, a glossy top-coat of the thin layers resembles glass.
This design reminds me of a huge holiday party to me. It is celebratory yet not seen just right should you wish to be individual without having to resort to well-worn red.
Black and Gold Sleek Stripes
This is a minimalist but a bold design that works with clean polish of black polish and sweeping stripes of gold. It is geometric, smooth and infinite modern like that which came straight out of a high-fashion runway. The gold ornamentation nearly resembles flowing metal over the nails.
To imitate this one, I would recommend OPI Lincoln Park after dark as the base and Sally Hansen Miracle Gel in Game of Chromes as the stripes. The nail art brush or stripping tape is the important aspect here accuracy is of the essence in cases where the design is based on sharp contrast.
I have come to understand that everything takes time with strip designs. Before applying the tape, I tend to take an abnormally long time to do so due to the ease of smugging of black polish. Everything is encased using a glossy and fast drying top coat which ensures that the finish remains very smooth.
It is one of such glances, which seems potent. I have also noticed it makes the most basic of outfits look immediately presentable whenever I have put it on. It is little evidence that less is sometimes more.
Crimson Glam and Glitter Tips
The classic red nails will never die, but this one brings it to a new level, as its edges are trimmed with glitter which nearly looks like falling snowflakes on a piece of velvet. The shape of the hands is elongated and graceful due to the use of almond shape as well. It is girlish, glam and the meaning of eternal winter style.
In this design I take an oath to OPI Big Apple Red or Essie Really Red as the base. The glitter accent may be performed with Zoya Cosmo or the loose silver glitter may be smeared on with a small brush to add the glitter to the ends. It does not chip as it has a long-wear gel top coat particularly when you are wearing it during the holiday seasons.
Once, celebrity nail artist Betina Goldstein had stated that the ultimate power shade is red and that it is seasonless, glitter provides an occasion. And that is exactly what I feel about this manicure. It puts a basic red on and makes it party.
Frankly, this is the one that I would choose during the New Year Eve. It is sparkly enough to reflect the light as you raise your glass at midnight but it is chic enough to put on the next day over a cashmere sweater.
Black and Gold Luxe Stripes
Black and gold are something that is very easily luxurious, and this manicure confirms it. The black base is glossy with a bold strip of golden color running down each nail giving the appearance a festive and classy look. It is simple in idea yet high impact like a small black dress with a big piece of jewelry.
What I would suggest to do to make this would be to apply a jet-black gel polish like Essies licorice and apply it with gold glitter polish or foil accents. The Golden Luxe by Orly will be a great choice as a sticky, molten look. The marks are maintained neat by use of a striping brush and the shine is covered by a smooth top coating.
Precision is the key to success in this case. I would paint the black base first, allow it to fully dry and apply striping tape to indicate where the gold would go. Gina Edwards, a celebrity manicurist, says that the difference between good manicure nail art and the ones in hurry is clean lines- this one fits the description perfectly.
I like it the most because of its flexibility. It is glam enough in New Years Eve party and it is also sleek enough in a work look. It is the type of manicure that speaks of confidence rather than yelling it.
Matte Plum Perfection
Winter chic comes with that deep plum finish that is quite smooth and sophisticated. This manicure puts a high layer of berry and wine colors in a smooth gradient, which appears velvety instead of glossy. It is modest but contemporary, which suits a person that does not want to be swayed by the seasonal trends but does not want to be glittered or shiny.
In this coating a matte finish is necessary. I prefer Essie Matte About You, which I would overlay OPI Lincoln Park After Dark or Zoya Margo. It is better to blend shades with the use of a sponge to accomplish that smooth ombre effect.
The steps aren’t complicated. I would brush darkest base colors then brush lighter shades of plum towards the ends then seal it with the matte finish. This style is evidence that matte polish is a personality that can transform even its simplest shade into one that looks immediately trendy as manicurist Deborah Lippmann frequently says.
In my experience, this design reminds me of winter nights with candles. It is not too big or too small, not noisy, not over the top and makes your hands look smooth and elegant.
Black and Gold Botanical Motives
This nail art is a matte black nail with metallic gold decoration in botanical designs. The combination of leafy patterns and fine stripes has brought balance -organized and natural. It is an ideal option to those who prefer statement nails, yet desire to have some harmony in the final appearance.
The base would be a long-lasting matte black polish (such as Chanel Pure black). In case of the golden accents, stamping plates/foils are saviors, otherwise, with a fine nail art brush, metallic gold polish like OPI, “Glitzerland” would perfectly suit.
It is a matter of contrast about its process of creation. After the matte black background is established, I would place the gold patterns but ensuring that I alternate between plain lines and leaf patterns to ensure that the picture remains interesting to the eye. Here, nail artist Betina Goldstein frequently emphasizes the ability of changing patterns so that a manicure does not make its wearer feel like he or she is repeating herself, and that concept applies in this context.
This manicure to me is of a contemporary sleekness with a certain royal touch. It is ideal when you desire your nails to be treated like an accessory in its own right; particularly at a holiday dinner or winter wedding.
Matte Burgundy And Glitter Accent
Burgundy has been a winter favourite but having it with a glitter accent nail will make it instantly depth and classy. This appearance applies a matte burgundy to the majority of nails, and one or two nails are glittered with rose-gold producing a contrast which is frolicsomeely yet is polished.
To this end, I would choose OPIs Malaga Wine or Essies Better Not Pout to use as the matte base and use a glitter polish such as Zoyas Maria Luisa or China Glaze Better Not Pout. The burgundy nails are glossy with a matte topcoat to maintain a velvety touch with the glitter being glossy as well.
It is easy to apply, however, it has to be planned. First paint the matte burgundy and ensure that it is completely dry before a matte sealer is applied. Next apply the glitter onto preferred nails in two or three layers to make them intense. Nail stylist, Jin Soon, frequently reminds the clients that balance is important when using glitter, enough to be noticed, but not too much as to overpower the appearance.
I personally like how this manicure is cozy and celebratory. It is daring enough to be put on during holiday parties and at the same time light enough to be worn on daily occasions during the winter periods.
Espresso and Rose Gold Duo
At other times the most noticeable manicure is achieved by combining two unlikely colors. The style of this design is a glossy espresso brown and glittering rose gold, which adds to the look that is rather modest, yet undoubtedly stylish. It is contemporary, sleek and edgy enough.
In order to reproduce it, I would recommend the one of OPI, titled, You Don’t Know Jacques! as the foundation brown colour and the metallic rose-gold accent on the metallic version, which is Birthday Suit by ILNP. This design is truly sparkling on shorter nails as the contrast is sharp and trendy.
All that is required is to paint the majority of the Playful Winter Mixials with the espresso shade, leaving one or two and paint them in rose gold. Here a glossy topcoat is important to ensure that the colors are not dull, and the metallics reflective. The nail pro celebrity Tom Bachik frequently speaks of the ability of a manicure to be more versatile with a combination of neutral and metallic colors, which is precisely the attitude of this look.
I think it is an ideal combination whenever I need a winter manicure that is fancy yet still with the element of glitz. It is a high-waisted daily wear that fits perfectly between casual and business.
Playful Winter Mix
There are also times when winter requires some audacity and this manicure offers just that. Every nail is a personality of a different color – deep blues, fiery red, royal purple all of them tied with sleek black streaks. It is virtual mini fashion show in your fingers. The fact that this design does not go safe but still seems to be cohesive enough to wear on everyday makes me like it.
In the case of the shades, I would take Essie Butler Please in the blue, opi Malaga Wine in the red, and Zoya Mason in the purple. The black detailing may be accomplished using a thin striping brush which has been dipped in China Glaze Liquid Leather. It is a simple method of introducing a cool accent but using no complex apparatus.
Another problem that I have frequently encountered when attempting to do the same multi-color manicure before was that it was difficult to make the appearance look not haphazard. The rule I would follow is to maintain the finish the same, here, it is all glossy with a slight tint of a shimmer. One of my favorite nail artists on Instagram constantly reminds me that topcoat is your stylist and I could not agree to this statement more. It is the last detail which makes all the colors one narrative.
Personally, I tend to associate this appearance with winter evenings out with friends, it is a bold look, a little unexpected and a manicure which people just want to discuss at the dinner table.
Navy and Gold Luxe
Had I been asked to choose one set of color combination that has a scream of winter luxury, I would have chosen navy blue and metallic gold. This manicure is sophisticated and bold with accents at the same time making it look like a polished look that one would find at a holiday gala. The contrast of firm navy, complete chrome gold and abstract foil highlights are impressive and it is lofty without being intricate.
The navy base would be replicated with Essie After School Boy Blazer, and the metallic finish would be replicated with a gel base with gold chrome powder. The foil decoration is possible by using gold transfer foil sheets, which are, frankly speaking, one of the simplest tricks in nail art that I have learned recently.
It should be applied in layers, beginning with the navy base, followed by the cure, chrome on a few nails of choice and finally the foil on one or two of the accent nails. Celebrity nail artist Julie Kandalec argues that it is important to keep bold manicures cool by picking out two or three elements. Such a tip is absolutely reasonable with shiny metallics.
I have always been in love with navy nails, and when paired with gold, it is like it has been taken to the next level. This one is a slippery velvet dress with earrings to make a statement – glamour with ease.
Smooth Black Striped Gold
Minimal, nevertheless, it is a hit, and this manicure is evidence that sometimes all you need is a sharp detail. The sleek black foundation is a contrast to slender and shimmering gold lines on all nails. It is smooth, contemporary and somewhat mysterious, and it is suited to winter nights when you need something that screams coolness rather than to the heavens.
Some of the products that I would suggest here will include OPI Black Onyx as a base and a striping polish such as Orly Instant Artist in Gold as the lines. In case you want gel, another time-saving and precision-painted nail tape would be golden.
I have done the same designs in my house, but the trick is to paint it with the gold detail after the black polish work has dried, and cover it with 2 coats of topcoat, lest the lines run. Once Allure celebrity manicurist Gina Edwards said that nail tape can last as long as two weeks, provided it is properly sealed, which has proven to be true on my part.
The thing that I like most about this manicure is that it is easy to match outfits with it. It does not have any competition with jewelry, and it suits equally to a warm cafe date as it does a fancy evening.
Matte Navy in Crystal Accents
Even Matte nails already have a sharp surface, but when they are covered with crystals, it immediately becomes a full-blown statement art. The manicure is made of a navy velvet base along with lines and clusters of rhinestones that make this look royal and modern at the same time. It is wintry, as it should be, like midnight skies dusted with stars.
In the case of the matte navy, I would apply Zoya Ryan and matte topcoat such as OPI Matte Top Coat. The crystals themselves may be glued or stuck with nail glue or gel, but I tend to use Swarovski-type type of rhinestones since they reflect the light without making the crystals appear plastic.
At home, I would always use large crystals at the beginning and then the smaller ones to create a balance. One of the tips that I have managed to keep in mind that were given by manicurist Miss Pop is that rhinestones should be treated like jewelry – in other words do not overdo it, but think where to place them. Such design measures make such a design seem planned and not weighty.
I consider this manicure a response of winter to festival nails. It’s bold, yes, but also refined. The matte finish prevents it to appear too loud and the sparkle is not excessive as to make it festive and not too gaudy.
Standard dark winter nail polish 2025-2026 is not what you expect. Shiny metallics to warm matte finishes and heavy design elements, the styles of this season show that nails can be creative and multi-purpose. You feel like a dramatic galaxy gradation, a royal black-and-gold combination or a pair of soft velvety plums, there is a style that will feel like it was created especially to suit you. The best part? These models do not simply adhere to the fashions, they establish the atmosphere of the whole season. Which one will you try first? Tell me–I would like to know what you liked.
