The Nail Files: Holiday-Inspired Manicure Trends For the Playful Minimalists

The Nail Files: Holiday-Inspired Manicure Trends For the Playful Minimalists

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It’s time to deck the halls with manicure designs that are guaranteed to bring festivity to your tips

The start of the new month is often synonymous with change, but as the holiday season approaches, the notion calls for significant shifts that capture the festive spirit—beauty choices included. Think malbec red lipsticks, shimmered lids, or even the infamous holiday fringe for a seasonal refresh. Yet among all categories, there seems to be one staple that tends to be one of the easiest shifts to make: Holiday manicure edits. And as luck would have it, the nail department warrants a lineup of options that honors the occasion. 

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Holiday Manicure Trends 2023
Photo: NATALIE PAVLOSKI (via Instagram)

The holiday season is an invitation to be creative and experimental with palettes, textures, and accents. But fret not—minimalistic motifs have their place, too. Anything goes. Keep in mind that the best manicure choice should make you feel like you are celebrating the moment, the kind that brings joy at a glance. Below is a list of excellent nail designs that will surely enhance your holiday beauty mood. 

The mani that can make you say oui

Holiday Manicure Trends 2023
Photo: BETINA GOLDSTEIN (via Instagram)

It appears that the ever-popular manicure trend is due for a holiday makeover. Decoding the work of Betina Goldstein, the latest holiday edit features a golden ultra-fine micro-band that is drawn across the tip of the nail. It is also quite evident that it contrasts with clear or pale polish, a technique that made the minimalistic detailing stand out. There are a lot of ways to translate the look, but a white or silver motif can simply bring the festive spirit to your tips. 

Oh, the return of the glazed nails 

Holiday Manicure Trends 2023
Photo: HAILEY BIEBER (via Instagram)

The holiday season unseemingly calls for the return of the glazed nails. Of course, who could ever forget the candy cane glazed nails? Introduced by Hailey Bieber, the manicure trend is lauded as the festive version of her signature nails. Think almond-shaped nails with a cherry red tip. It’s comparable to a classic French manicure—only this time, it is accented with a multidimensional finish. The look can also be easily adorned with embellishments. Add a more personal touch by incorporating pearls or glitters for a more holiday feel. 

Perhaps, take inspo from your beauty wishlist? 

Holiday Manicure Trends 2023
Photo: NATALIE PAVLOSKI (via Instagram)

Yes, it is possible to take manicure inspiration from your beauty wishlist. Take a cue from Natalie Pavloski. Ever the artist of nail inspiration, Pavloski integrated Glossier-inspired detailings on Olivia Rodrigo’s nails. Elsewhere, accents are accompanied by what appears to be an embellished version of naked nails. Recreate the look by opting for elements that hint at what you want to receive this holiday season. That is to say: Forget the papers. This year, your wishlist is written on your nail beds. 

Featured image: MEGA ARCHIVES

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