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

      I can't believe I'm writing this, but it's time to discuss winter nail trends (I hate to be that person, but where did the year go?). The nail trends of 2025 continue to embrace the quiet luxury trend (think sheer pink polishes and ageless nail shades) alongside our attraction to brown nails. So, what can we expect for the winter nail trends of 2025? After speaking with celebrity manicurists and browsing through my social media, it seems we're seeing a lot of what we've experienced this year. Minimalist manicures remain popular, but we're also incorporating classic winter nail shades. Additionally, advancements in nail formulas mean that many types of manicures look glossier than ever—some polishes are even rivaling gel ones in longevity and effectiveness. If you're seeking some ideas for your next manicure, read on for the major winter nail trends to try in 2025.

      1. Milky Manicures

      Milky manicures have emerged as one of the standout nail trends of 2025, and for winter, they're getting a refreshing update. "Milky manicures will be a significant trend this winter, but in a different way than we’ve seen before," states Harriet Westmoreland, a celebrity manicurist and co-founder of Westmoreland Cosmetics, who has developed her own line of sheer Glass Gels and Glass Polishes. "They should be glassy, not chalky. We’re talking about a juicy, plump, super-glossy milky manicure," she notes. This look emphasizes a subtle hint of color while allowing the shine to shine through.

      Shop the Trend:

      - OPI Nail Polish in Funny Bunny

      - Essie Nail Polish in Allure

      - Westmoreland Cosmetics Glass Polish Vanilla Gloss

      2. Merlot

      Every winter sees the return of burgundy and black cherry nails, and 2025 is no exception. The most stylish way to wear this trend is with short or squoval nails, which enhances the bold, jewel-like quality of this deep wine hue. Chanel's classic Rouge Noir may be the ultimate dark red shade, but I'm particularly fond of Hollyhock by Manucurist (worn by Mateja Novakovic above) and Essie's Shearling Darling, which offers a seductive deep color to the nails.

      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

      Contrasting with bold colors like dark red is the rise of the naked nail. Consider it a reset from gel polish, BIAB, or regular polish, focusing on nail care for beautifully manicured hands. "It's all about prioritizing the skin rather than the nails. This involves scrubbing your hands twice a day, applying oil, and returning to the basics," advises Westmoreland. "Dedicate time to care for your hands and nails," she adds. Utilizing cuticle oils and nail strengtheners is an effective way to fortify your nails.

      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 nail color, winter is bringing forth the rise of other sheer shades. Sheer brown appears more sophisticated and wearable than its opaque counterpart, providing a lovely neutral option for darker skin tones. Similar to milky manicures, the focus is on the tone and transparency of the polish. "You might not initially perceive the nail as sheer, but it will look significantly glossier and juicier," mentions Westmoreland. "It resembles colored glass rather than a flat hue—there’s a richness to it."

      Shop the Trend:

      - Manucurist Active Smooth 03

      - Westmoreland Cosmetics Glass Polish Vanilla Gloss

      - Butter London Sheer Wisdom Nail Tinted Moisturiser in Tan

      5. Navy

      A timeless nail color, navy is making waves this winter. If black, brown, or gray seems too severe, a navy manicure strikes a perfect balance of moody yet flattering. It's akin to wearing denim on your nails—they complement everyone and work well for any occasion, whether dressed up or down. The love for navy in Paris is well-founded, making it an excellent choice for an elegant 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 emphasize finish rather than color—an approach Westmoreland has embraced with her recent Glass Gels and Glass Polishes launch. "I believe this will introduce a new category of manicures," she comments. "When I switch from sheer polish to a solid color, I find it unappe