47 December Nails To Wear for the Upcoming Holidays

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Tired of scrolling through countless social media ideas for your December nails? 

We’ve done the work for you, curating the top trends and designs this season. Say goodbye to the search and settle for nothing but the best.

A woman's hands with grey and gold nails and christmas ornaments.

Discover the ultimate December nails inspiration in one place, sparing you the frustration.

47 December Nail Designs and Holiday Mani Ideas

1. Between November and December

A woman's hands with shimmering deep brown base and swirls design on the accent nails
Image courtesy of @rmnailtech

For early December nails that transition from fall to the festive season, use a shimmering deep brown base. 

On accent nails, apply the same color on opposing corners and enhance with a thin silver swirl that runs from the tips to the cuticle.

2. Snow Globe Nails

A woman's two nails are decorated with christmas trees and snowflakes while the rest are painted glittery white
Image courtesy of @rmnailtech

These white December nails painted glittery white evoke the charm of snow globes.

Two of the nails are adorned with Christmas tree and snow nail art, giving the delightful illusion of snowy fingertips.

3. Green Christmas

A woman's nails are decorated with green and white polished with variety of Yuletide elements like North Stars, Christmas trees, Christmas balls, and wrapped presents atop a nude base
Image courtesy of @jark.nails

Transform your nails into festive canvases using white and glittery green polish.

Showcase a variety of Yuletide elements like North Stars, Christmas trees, Christmas balls, and wrapped presents atop a nude base.

4. Red December Nails

A woman's hand with craft plaid patterns using gold, white, and black on a vibrant red base and complement them with wine red accent nails
Image courtesy of @jark.nails

For a festive red manicure, craft plaid patterns using gold, white, and black on a vibrant red base and complement them with wine red accent nails.

5. Hints of Gold

A woman's hand with glossy dark burgundy polish with accent nails adorned with gold foil
Image courtesy of @jark.nails

Consider this squoval mani if you’re looking for simple December nail designs.

Glossy dark burgundy polish with accent nails adorned with gold foil offers a sophisticated appearance.

6. Red Magic

A woman's hands with red polished with subtle glittery side French tips and delicate white North Star art
Image courtesy of @marzastudios

Elevate red nails to a magical realm with both light and dark shades in a glossy finish. Infuse extra sparkle with a dusting of fine silver glitter.

In nails that sport the lighter shade, enhance the allure with subtle glittery side French tips and delicate white North Star art, perfectly capturing the essence of the season.

7. Classy December Nails

A woman's hands with glittery silver polished and accent nails with tiny white dots and delicate silver North Stars
Image courtesy of @marzastudios

Silver glitter is a timeless choice for December nails. All the nails, save for two, dazzle with a coat of glittery silver polish.

For added flair, embellish the accent nails with tiny white dots and delicate silver North Stars that emulate the festive holiday spirit.

8. Santa and the Gingerbread Man

A woman's December almond nails embrace the season with a variety of designs: rich, deep reds kissed with a sprinkle of golden glitter at the tips, plus star motifs atop contrasting nude and red nails bordered with a broken line
Image courtesy of @nailcouturelincoln

These December almond nails embrace the season with a variety of designs: rich, deep reds kissed with a sprinkle of golden glitter at the tips, plus star motifs atop contrasting nude and red nails bordered with a broken line.

Add fun, whimsical nails adorned with Santa Claus and gingerbread man nail art to create a celebration of Christmas right at your fingertips!

9. Midnight Blue and Acrylic December Nails

A woman's nails are decorated with silver chrome polish adorned with contrasting matte blobs
Image courtesy of @nailcouturelincoln

For an all-glam look, consider wearing December coffin nails in acrylic. Start with a captivating silver chrome polish adorned with contrasting matte blobs. 

Complement this with shimmering midnight blue and glittery silver hues on the remaining nails. For that added touch of sophistication, place rhinestones near the cuticles.

10. Green Plaid and Glitter

A woman's hand holding plaid design combining dark green, red, and golden glitter on accent nails then coat the rest of the nails in a dazzling golden glitter
Image courtesy of @nailcouturelincoln

For the green enthusiasts out there, embrace the hue with a touch of festive flair.

Opt for a plaid design combining dark green, red, and golden glitter on accent nails. Then coat the rest of the nails in a dazzling golden glitter.

11. Snowy December Nights

A woman's hands with mesmerizing winter night using glittery gray and midnight blue shades and pine tree design as accent nails
Image courtesy of @nailcouturelincoln

Transform your nails into a mesmerizing winter night using glittery gray and midnight blue shades, evoking the beauty of a shimmering snow-covered evening.

Take it further by introducing accent nails in matte, adorned with artful depictions of pine trees against a luminescent moon.

12. Silver Christmas

A woman's matte white and glossy gray Christmas gnome nail art across two nails, setting it against a matte nude base
Image courtesy of @nailcouturelincoln

This unique diptych design splits a matte white and glossy gray Christmas gnome nail art across two nails, setting it against a matte nude base. Embellish them with North Stars and add a centric rhinestone. 

Paint another in glossy, glittery gray. Lastly, coat another matte gray and adorn it with a cable-knit sweater pattern.

13. Spiky Frost Tips

A woman's nails with glossy dark blue base reminiscent of a starlit December sky nail art with polka dots in varying sizes.
Image courtesy of @evelinail_art

Capture winter nights on your nails by painting them with a glossy dark blue base reminiscent of a starlit December sky.

To recreate the magic of softly falling snow, dab on glittery white dots of varying sizes across and sketch delicate frost spikes near the tips.

14. North Stars on Red

A woman with glossy red nails where accent nails are decorated with prominent North Star on one nail, and paint two smaller North Stars on its neighboring nail
Image courtesy of @zeeceebeauty

To rock short December nails, coat them in a rich, deep, glossy red.

Paint a prominent North Star on one nail, and paint two smaller North Stars on its neighboring nail for a striking accent. 

15. Sky Blue Winter

A woman's nails with glittery deep blue lines, light blue foil, and soft sky-blue snowflake nail art
Image courtesy of @evelinail_art

Welcome December sporting blue winter nails. Coat your nails in off-white, then add snow-like matte white flakes. Highlight with multiple glittery deep blue lines, light blue foil, and soft sky-blue snowflake nail art. 

Accent this mani with another off-white nail topped with square glitter and another in glittery light blue polish to create a wintry wonder at your fingertips!

16. A Snowy Day

A woman is holding a navy blue nails in harmony with a diptych art scene depicting a serene winter day in December
Image courtesy of @evelinail_art

Capture the essence of a picturesque snowy day with this nail set. It highlights glistening navy blue nails in harmony with a diptych art scene depicting a serene winter day in December.

The detailed imagery includes pine trees, a leafless tree, and gently falling snow, all combining to bring the beauty of winter.

17. Pink and Purple Christmas

A woman holding a backdrop of purple-pink-gold ombre, then a serene snowy day scene complete with pine trees with another nail in glossy pink and the remaining in glossy purple
Image courtesy of @evelinail_art

Tired of red and white December nail designs? Try embracing shades of pink and violet this time.

On three nails, start with a backdrop of purple-pink-gold ombre, then paint a serene snowy day scene complete with pine trees. Coat another nail in glossy pink and the remaining in glossy purple.

18. White Christmas Elements

A woman's hand with nails in off-white polish, and white candy canes, lollipops, stars, and dots on top with gold french tips
Image courtesy of @evelinail_art

Dress up your nails in off-white polish, and paint white candy canes, lollipops, stars, and dots on top.

Complete the look with elegant gold French tips, adding a touch of sophistication to your December manicure.

19. Sexy Red Nails

A woman's hands with vibrant chrome red, and elevate the elegance with hints of red foil
Image courtesy of @paiwaloves

Want sexy nails for December? Opt for a vibrant chrome red, and elevate the elegance with hints of red foil.

It’s a striking combo that’s both bold and refined.

20. Blue Glitter

A woman's hands with royal blue nails polish on them.
Image courtesy of @paiwaloves

Embrace the winter season with royal blue nails, a quintessential December shade inspired by the month’s birthstone.

Add a touch of glamour with a glittery top coat, making it the ideal choice for December birthday nails!

21. All-Out Gold

A woman's hands with gold nail polish and accent nails decorated with swirly, side French tips with delicate tiny dots and North Stars.
Image courtesy of @paiwaloves

Step into the royal realm of December with these gel nails that exude luxury with their glittery gold polish.

Elevate the look further by adding accent nails: swirly, side French tips with delicate tiny dots and North Stars.

22. Glittery Knit Pattern

A woman with nails in chrome purple with embossed glittery plum knit patterns
Image courtesy of @paiwaloves

For a sultry look this December, wear plum-colored nails in a glossy finish and elevate the look by painting accent nails in chrome purple, decorating them with embossed glittery plum knit patterns.

23. Assorted Pink Glitter

A woman's hand with nails in a shimmering pink hue with the help of a holographic glitter mix that contains different sizes of flakes
Image courtesy of @paiwaloves

For a delightful twist on December nails, think pink.

Adorn your nails in a shimmering pink hue with the help of a holographic glitter mix that contains different sizes of flakes.

24. Almond Glitter

A woman's hand with almond shape painted in glittery polish using red, yellow and green glitter flakes
Image courtesy of @nailsbyharriet_

Show off simple yet chic nails with an almond shape painted in glittery polish. Use red, yellow, and green glitter flakes to hint at the season’s colors subtly. 

25. Royal Nails

A woman's nails with blue polished and mix of fine and chunky glitter in blue and turquoise for added glam accent nails
Image courtesy of @dipped.in.glitz

Elevate your look with elegant royal blue nails.

Enhance their allure by incorporating a mix of fine and chunky glitter in blue and turquoise for added glam.

26. Sleek Christmas Nails

A woman's hand with beautiful Christmas flower art and nails coated with gold, green, and gray glitter.
Image courtesy of @dipped.in.glitz

Adorn your nails with the vibrant colors of the season: green and red!

Enhance this festive manicure by featuring a nail with beautiful Christmas flower art and nails coated with gold, green, and gray glitter.

27. Glittery Black December Nails

A woman's hand with square nails in glittery black polish
Image courtesy of @jal.nailartist

Transform your nails into a minimalist masterpiece with square nails in glittery black polish.

Add tiny star sequins to emulate the appearance of a starry night sky.

28. Sparkly Christmas

A woman's hands with nude nails that sport gold-outlined French tips, but use the same red polish in one and leave the other tip nude
Image courtesy of @jal.nailartist

For a classy look, paint some of your nails glittery red. Accent them with nude nails that sport gold-outlined French tips, but use the same red polish in one and leave the other tip nude.

Add North Stars in white to elevate the sparkle!

29. Pine Nails

A woman's hands with matte green nails where one nail is coated in gold glitter, while another boasts a wintry pine tree nail art
Image courtesy of @jal.nailartist

This design offers a perfect December short nail idea, showcasing matte green nails.

One nail is coated in gold glitter, while another boasts a wintry pine tree nail art, encapsulating the festive spirit.

30. Peppermint Nails

A woman's hands with deep red nails in a glossy finish with an accent nail painted frosted white.
Image courtesy of @jal.nailartist

This nail set features deep red nails in a glossy finish with an accent nail painted frosted white.

Add thin black lines and chunky glitter details that start as silver at the cuticles and turn to gold as it goes toward the tip.

31. Frosty Winter

A hand holding a pink sweater with chunky white glitter on nails.
Image courtesy of @maddz4dips

Adorn your nails in a pristine white, complemented by chunky white glitter, creating a sugary texture reminiscent of fresh snowfall.

32. Blue and White Winter

A woman's hand holding a blue and white nail with a snowflake on it.
Image courtesy of @maddz4dips

For a wintry December look, use pastel blue in three nails then fill one with chunky dark blue and turquoise glitter.

Embellish another nail in turquoise glitter and gift bow nail art. Make one pastel blue nail stand out with North Star and snowflake nail art.

33. Dark Emerald and Gold

A woman's hand with stunning chrome gold, emerald, and nude polish nails.
Image courtesy of @_iwnails

Make your nails stand out by coating them individually in stunning chrome gold, emerald, and nude polish. Further elevate the set with a nail that dazzles in chunky gold glitter. 

For the final touch, add a deep emerald French tip to the nude nail.

34. Deep Royal Blue

A woman's hand with deep blue nails enhanced with diagonal swirls outlined in glittery silver, revealing a chic nude-colored center
Image courtesy of @_iwnails

Another nail set radiating royal allure, this design features deep blue nails enhanced with diagonal swirls outlined in glittery silver, revealing a chic nude-colored center.

35. Candy Christmas

A woman with nails in glittery red, then draw snowflakes, candy cane patterns, or a delightful combination of both in white
Image courtesy of @_iwnails

Craving delicious-looking December acrylic nail designs?

Adorn your nails in glittery red, then draw snowflakes, candy cane patterns, or a delightful combination of both in white.

36. Chunky Blue Birthstone Nails

A woman's hands with square-shaped manicure accentuated with chunky blue and gold glitter
Image courtesy of @_iwnails

Showcase December birthstone nails with a glossy, square-shaped manicure accentuated with chunky blue and gold glitter.

This combination not only celebrates your birth month but also adds a festive sparkle to your look.

37. Deep Red in Gloss

A woman's hands with deep red glitter gel nails
Image courtesy of @practicallymagic_nailsbeauty

These deep red glitter gel nails are a surefire eye-catcher. Despite their simplicity, they make a bold statement for any occasion.

38. Glittery Green With Golden Stars

A woman's hands with lush green base topped with chunky green glitter
Image courtesy of @practicallymagic_nailsbeauty

These dreamy nails feature a lush green base topped with chunky green glitter. Elevate this mesmerizing look by adding golden star accents in one nail.

39. Glittery Silver With Cute Puppies

A woman's nails are decorated with an accent nails with dogs wearing Santa hats on a nude base while the rest are painted in silver polished
Image courtesy of @practicallymagic_nailsbeauty

These cute December nails showcase accent nails with dogs wearing Santa hats on a nude base.

With tiny white dots to create a snow effect and the rest of the nails painted in glittery silver, this design captures winter’s charm.

40. Emerald and North Stars

A woman's hand holding a glossy emerald nails with stars on it.
Image courtesy of @practicallymagic_nailsbeauty

Unveil sophistication with glossy emerald nails this December.

Enhance their allure by adding golden North Stars that infuse a festive appeal and make your manicure a holiday standout.

41. Festive Winter

A woman's nails are decorated with white snowflake on gray and glittery gray, half-nude and half-silver nails with black mistletoe, and matte bluish-gray nails with knitted patterns and mistletoe art
Image courtesy of @jellybayn_nails

Get creative with designs like a white snowflake on gray and glittery gray, half-nude and half-silver nails with black mistletoe, and matte bluish-gray nails with knitted patterns and mistletoe art. 

You can also go for elegant gray nails with rhinestones and a vertical knit pattern.

42. Pine Trees in Snow

French tips in textured white, and add Christmas trees on each nail set against a translucent white base with solid white dots that mimic snow.
Image courtesy of @jellybayn_nails

Transform your nails into a winter wonderland by crafting a snow globe effect. 

Paint French tips in textured white, and add Christmas trees on each nail set against a translucent white base with solid white dots that mimic snow.

43. Christmas French Tips

A woman's nude nails with glittery green and gold deep French tips framed by a delicate white outline decorated with stars and moons.
Image courtesy of @jellybayn_nails

Embellish nude nails with glittery green and gold deep French tips framed by a delicate white outline.

Enhance each nail with green or golden snowflakes, and make one nail stand out with a crescent moon art accompanied by a tiny star.

44. Bejeweled Winter Cave

A woman's nails features a nude base with icy spike-shaped reverse French tips, glittery pink polish, and rhinestone accents while the other offers a purple marble
Image courtesy of @jellybayn_nails

Choose a whimsical look this December by alternating your nails with two enchanting designs. 

One design features a nude base with icy spike-shaped reverse French tips, glittery pink polish, and rhinestone accents. The other offers a purple marble look resembling broken ice, creating a magical winter cave vibe for your nails.

45. Bold Emerald

A woman's hand holding a deep green polish with a glossy finish nail polish.
Image courtesy of @minimalist.gelineer

Welcome the season by keeping your nails simple yet enchanting. Apply a deep green polish with a glossy finish for an understated and elegant look.

46. Sweater Accent

A woman's nails are coated in a rich, deep green, with one sporting a delicate snowflake art while the rest are in matte knit pattern design
Image courtesy of @polishedbykiah

This manicure subtly signals the chilly season with nails adorned in matte knit patterns reminiscent of cozy winter sweaters.

The rest of the nails are coated in a rich, deep green, with one sporting a delicate snowflake art for an additional seasonal touch.

47. Ombré Burgundy

A woman's nails in matte burgundy and white are decorated with snowflakes and burgundy.
Image courtesy of @bysarahnailartist

Opt for nails in matte burgundy and white this Yuletide season. Coat the white nails with sparkling silver glitter and accentuate the burgundy ones with reverse sideways French tips in glittery white.

Embellish with a delicate snowflake design near the tips or spiky frosted nail art near the cuticles using a glittery white polish to enhance the winter feel.

Nail Colors for December

Personalizing the designs by choosing your own colors is a great way to add your unique touch.

Here’s a list of the best colors you can use to maintain the December theme:

Reds

From crimson to burgundy, red is a quintessential December color. It’s evocative of holiday ornaments, cozy firesides, and festive celebrations.

Greens

Emerald and olive greens are other classic December choices. They remind us of evergreen trees and wreaths, bringing a touch of nature’s winter beauty to your nails.

Blues

For those who love cooler tones, various shades of blue, especially deep, midnight blues and icy light blues, emulate the winter sky and snowy landscapes, giving a chill yet chic touch to your nail art. 

Metallics and Glitter

Gold, silver, and other metallic shades add shine to your December nail designs. They capture the glow of holiday lights and the sparkle of fresh snow!

Neutrals 

Don’t forget the power of neutral tones. Whites and nudes can create a subtle, elegant backdrop for intricate nail art designs or glitter accents, embodying the quiet beauty of a winter’s day.

A woman's hand with white and nude nails and white snowflakes and 3D sweater designs on select nails
Image courtesy of @andrea_nailartist1202

Frequently Asked Questions

What Type of Nail Enhancement Should I Get for December?

The choice of December nail enhancement depends on personal style, occasion, and nail health. 

Popular options include the following: 

  • Gel manicures: Durable and suitable for both classic and winter designs 
  • Acrylic nails: Offer creativity with various shapes and decorations for festive and winter-themed looks
  • Dip powder nails: Strong and versatile, making them ideal for holiday or subtle winter patterns

How Can I Make My December Nails Last Longer?

To make your December nails last longer. Apply a high-quality base coat before applying your polish, and seal your design with a strong top coat.

During the month, reapply the top coat every few days to provide extra protection. Also, try to wear gloves while doing tasks that can cause damage to your nails, like washing dishes or cleaning.

Proper nail maintenance, like keeping your nails and cuticles moisturized, can also help extend the life of your nail design during this cold month.

A woman's hand holding a candy cane flaunting her nails in red, silver and white with christmas design accent nail

Pick a Few of These December Nail Ideas To Greet the Holiday Season!

From the subtle whispers of snowflake designs to the bold shout of glittery reds and greens, these December nail inspo ideas surely offer something special.

Why not give it a shot and embrace the season through your nails? It’s a form of self-expression, a sprinkle of joy, and a dash of self-love, especially in this chilly season.

So as the year winds down, why not wind up your nail game? Explore the possibilities of December nails and let your fingertips do the talking.

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Author

  • A woman with red hair smiling for the camera.

    Shai is a licensed pharmacist with a Bachelor of Arts in Pharmacy. She uniquely intertwines her medical expertise with a fervent passion for beauty. With an intrinsic understanding of ingredients and formulation, she's the proud creator of her own line of products designed exclusively for naturally curly hair. Over her four-year writing career, Shai consistently delivers content enriched by her distinct blend of knowledge and enthusiasm.

    View all posts

Shai is a licensed pharmacist with a Bachelor of Arts in Pharmacy. She uniquely intertwines her medical expertise with a fervent passion for beauty. With an intrinsic understanding of ingredients and formulation, she's the proud creator of her own line of products designed exclusively for naturally curly hair. Over her four-year writing career, Shai consistently delivers content enriched by her distinct blend of knowledge and enthusiasm.

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