Marble manicures & 11 more of our fave nail looks to stand out this January


From icy finishes to sophisticated marble effects, winter is bringing the heat to our manicures. Beauty writer Celia Mediavilla reveals twelve trending nail looks


green marble nails manicure  © @nailsbylauren.o.
By Celia Mediavilla
1 day ago
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This winter, manicures have been getting a sophisticated glow-up, and we love the looks that blend timeless elegance with avant-garde flair

Leading the charge is the marble effect - a total phenomenon that's moved from the catwalks straight into the hearts of nail art lovers everywhere. But marble isn't the only look stealing the spotlight this season.

Ready to find your new signature set just in time to kick off the year with a fresh look? 

We've rounded up twelve standout winter trends that serve as the ultimate finishing touch for any outfit. Explore the new season's top styles with us and you'll be able to rock on-trend nails that work with all of your everyday looks.

The best winter nail looks to kick off 2026

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© @thecolornook

These stone-like nails stand out

Elegant Marble Effect Nails

Inspired by the natural veins of organic marble, this technique creates a unique, high-end look. Whether you opt for romantic pastels or high-contrast, moody combinations, the possibilities for customisation are endless.

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© @thegelbottlenz

Your next 'Ice Princess' manicure

Icy Chrome & Snow Effect Manicures

We love a winter that wraps us in a blanket of white, and those snowy landscapes are the perfect inspiration for a captivating manicure. Designs featuring "frozen" textures and delicate chrome finishes are a real winner for anyone seeking a clean, flawless aesthetic.

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© @_ivynailart

A neutral base makes it an ideal canvas for subtle nail art, too

Mocha Mousse Manicure

Look for shades that evokes the warmth of hot cocoa or coffee with whipped cream. It's a tone that adds instant depth and sophistication to any look. Mocha Mousse - which was 2025's colour of the year - pairs perfectly with everything from casual knits to formal evening wear.

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© @nailsbylauren.o

The gilded trend is moving to our nails

3D Gold Relief & Textured Nail Art

A subtle 3D gold design is the perfect way to add a touch of luxury to your winter manicure. This textured finish provides a hint of luminosity that pops beautifully against both lighter colours, above, and the season’s darker, moodier palette.

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© @enevanailart

The '90s trend is back

'Dark Cherry' & Black-Red Hybrids

This a beautiful choice for those who like to be a bit mysterious. The trend blends the intensity of black with the warmth of deep crimson to create a "ripe cherry" hue. It's undeniably versatile - striking enough for a night out, yet subtle enough for the office.

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© @thenaillologist

Velvet isn't just trending in fashion - plush-looking nails are in as well

Velvet Nails

While stunning "cat eye" nails dominate the festive season, the trend is evolving into something softer for January. Velvet nails offer a plush, luminous finish using magnetic pigments, but in gentler shades like pale pink or lavender for a more romantic, delicate touch.

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© @thenaillologist

Oh là là - the new French manicure is très chic!

French Manicure with a Twist

The timeless French manicure is getting another daring makeover. This season, we're ditching the traditional white tips for original color combinations for a personalised twist. 

By experimenting with moody base colors and tips with a twist, this classic style now goes beyond the conventional.

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© @thecolornook

Feminine nails inspired by our grandmas

Vintage-look Manicures

"Grandmacore" nails are a tribute to the charming elegance of the past as epitomised by our grandmothers.

Characterised by designs that recall vintage Hollywood, one of our favourite looks from the trend focuses on simple, iconic reds that never go out of style.

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© @simlynail

Autumn's pumpkin spice evolves to winter's cinnamon

Warm Cinnamon Spice Tones

Cinnamon tones are the ultimate "cosy" trend to combat the winter chill. This spice-inspired shade brings a sense of comfort and earthy sophistication to your hands. It looks equally stunning in a matte, minimalist finish or with a touch of sparkle that will get you noticed.

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© @mrsmckennabarry

Love animal prints? Try this long-lasting trend

Timeless Tortoise Shell Nails

Few styles have stayed at the top of the trend reports as long as "tortie nails". The signature mottled pattern, inspired but a tortoise's shell, offers a fun versatility that works year-round.

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© @moskvichka_nails

Minimalist manicures continue to reign this winter season

Minimalist Nudes

Clean girl aesthetic nudes and "soap nails", noted for their sheer, ultra-glossy finish, remain a staple that pairs with any outfit. The beauty of this look lies in its simplicity, highlighting the healthy, natural beauty of your nails.

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A gorgeous, sophisticated option

Tonal Gradient Manicure

A tonal gradient involves applying different shades from the same color family to each nail, creating a soft, sophisticated transition. While earth tones like chocolate and burgundy are the go-to for winter, the "skittle" gradient possibilities are truly infinite.

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