It's Time for a Change—7 Stylish Nail Trends That Will Reign This Winter

      I can't believe I'm writing this, but it's time to discuss the winter nail trends (I really hate to be that person, but where has the year gone?). The nail trends of 2025 have continued to embrace the quiet luxury aesthetic (think sheer pink polishes and classic nail colors) alongside our fascination with brown nails. So, what can we expect from the winter 2025 nail trends? After speaking with celebrity manicurists and browsing my social feeds, it appears we'll be seeing much of the same as this year. Minimalist manicures remain popular, but we’re also reintroducing those timeless winter shades. Furthermore, advancements in nail formulas have made various manicures look glossier than ever—and some polishes are now rivaling gel options in terms of longevity and effectiveness. If you're looking for inspiration for your next manicure, scroll through to discover the hottest winter nail trends you’ll want to embrace in 2025.

      1. Milky Manicures

      Milky manicures have arguably been the standout trend of 2025, and this winter, they’re getting an upgrade. "Milky manicures will be a significant trend, but they won’t look like how we've seen them before," explains Harriet Westmoreland, celebrity manicurist and co-founder of Westmoreland Cosmetics, who has developed her own range of sheer Glass Gels and Glass Polishes. "They’re glossy, not chalky. It’s about achieving a juicy, plump, super-shiny milky manicure," she adds. This trend favors subtle color on the nails while allowing the shine to take center stage.

      Shop the Trend:

      - OPI Nail Polish in Funny Bunny

      - Essie Nail Polish in Allure

      - Westmoreland Cosmetics Glass Polish Vanilla Gloss

      2. Merlot

      Every winter, we see the return of burgundy and black cherry nails, and 2025 is no exception. The chicest way to sport this hue? With short or squoval nails. This combination enhances the richness of the deep wine shade, making it even more vibrant and jewel-like. While Chanel's iconic Rouge Noir is a classic dark red, I’m especially fond of Hollyhock by Manucurist (worn by Mateja Novakovic above) and Essie's Shearling Darling nail polish, which envelops your nails in an alluring deep shade.

      Shop the Trend:

      - Chanel Le Vernis Longwear Nail Colour in Rouge Noir

      - Manucurist Green Nail Polish in Hollyhock

      - Essie Nail Polish in Shearling Darling

      3. Au Naturel

      In contrast to bold dark reds, the naked nail trend is making a comeback. It represents a break from gel polish, BIAB, or regular nail polish, emphasizing nail care for naturally manicured hands. "It’s truly about focusing on the skin rather than the nails. Think hand scrubbing twice daily, applying oil, and returning to the basics," Westmoreland suggests. "Dedicate time to caring for your hands and nails," she advises. Cuticle oils and nail strengtheners are excellent ways to reinforce your nails while enhancing their appearance.

      Shop the Trend:

      - Essie To the Rescue UV Gel Damage Repair Nail Treatment

      - CND Solar Oil Nail and Cuticle Conditioner

      4. Sheer Brown

      While sheer pink is a classic choice, this winter we’re seeing the rise of other sheer shades. Sheer brown is more sophisticated and versatile than its opaque counterpart, plus it’s a lovely neutral for darker skin tones. Similar to milky manicures, the appeal lies in the polish’s tone and transparency. "You might not immediately recognize it as a sheer polish, but it will look wonderfully juicy and glossy," states Westmoreland. "It gives the appearance of colored glass on the nails rather than a flat color—there's so much more depth."

      Shop the Trend:

      - Manucurist Active Smooth 03

      - Westmoreland Cosmetics Glass Polish Vanilla Gloss

      - Butter London Sheer Wisdom Nail Tinted Moisturizer in Tan

      5. Navy

      Another enduring color I'm noticing across feeds this winter is navy. If you find black, brown, or gray too severe, navy offers a moody yet flattering alternative. It’s akin to the comfort of denim jeans for your nails—they suit everyone and work seamlessly for any occasion, whether formal or casual. There’s a reason Parisians adore navy, making it the ideal color for a chic winter manicure.

      Shop the Trend:

      - Essie Gel Couture Nail Polish in Caviar Bar

      - Manucurist Green Nail Polish in Poppy Seed

      - Hermès Les Mains Hermès Nail Enamel in Bleu Encre

      6. Glass Nails

      Glass nails focus less on color and more on the finish of your manicure—an aspect Westmoreland has innovated with her recent launch of Glass Gels and Glass Polishes. "I believe this will create a completely new