Yep, it’s December. I know I sound like a broken record, but seriously, where has this year gone? It feels like only yesterday I was getting my wardrobe ready for spring, and now I can’t leave the house without at least three layers on. Despite the cold weather, there are so many things to look forward to this month, from festive parties to time with loved ones and all the yummy Christmas food and drink. As a beauty editor, one thing that I’m particularly excited about is my December manicure appointment. I always get a little bit more creative with my nails at this time of year and swap out my usual brown and burgundy shades for something more fun. In fact, the sparklier the better, in my opinion.
Although my Instagram and TikTok feeds are already full of festive manicure ideas, from Christmas-themed nail art to chrome finishes, I thought it was only right to reach out to DaisyKalnina, founder and CEO of The Gel Bottle, to get an expert opinion on the nail colours we can expect to see everywhere this December. Intrigued? I thought so.
If you want to know what to ask for on your next trip to the salon, then keep on scrolling for all the inspiration you need. I’ve also included lots of product recommendations for those of you who prefer to do your nails at home, including tips and tricks on how to get the look. You are welcome.
“First up, red is definitely having its moment (again),” says Kalnina. “For a festive twist, I love our gel colour French Kiss. It’s a gorgeous deep red with a bit of sparkle, perfect for getting glam for all your Christmas parties.”
If sparkly nails aren’t your thing, not to fear, as a matte or glossy finish looks super chic.
Christmas in a nail polish.
If gel nails are your thing, Kalnina recommends French Kiss by The Gel Bottle.
Kalnina says that a lot of her clients are opting for classic, snowy white nails for this time of year, and I can totally see why. She advises to go for a soft, milky shade for a subtly festive feel.
This is a great option for those of you who like a more monochrome colour palette, and it definitely won’t clash with any of your outfits.
The perfect snowy white shade.
For a real treat, opt for this Dior nail polish.
According to Kalnina, gold metallic detailing is perfect for this time of year, as it adds a chic, festive accent to your manicure.
I mean, it really doesn’t get much better than this.
Chanel can do no wrong.
To get that foil-like effect, opt for a sparkling gold polish.
“Next up, my Instagram feed has been full of black, sparkly nails at the moment,” says Kalnina. “Our Studio Effects Flashing Pigment in Onyx (£12) is perfect to get this look. [It’s] so chic and really elevates an evening outfit.”
Again, if you don’t fancy sparkles, then a glossy black polish is the way to go.
This polish has a subtle sparkle for those of you who like your glitter a little more understated.
How stunning is this shade?
“Chromes are definitely here to stay,” says Kalnina. This trend has been popular all year round, but the shiny finish makes it perfect for the festive season.
The best bit about this trend is that you can pretty much choose any colour you want and go for a chrome finish on top.
This would create a beautiful chrome effect.
Mylee has designed this clever pen that you can apply over your nails for a chromatic shine. Everyone will think you’ve gone to the salon after using this.
