Let’s face it—New Year’s Eve is the perfect excuse to go all out with your nails. Use this post to find inspiration for your nail look!
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Whether you’re ringing in the New Year at a glamorous party or keeping it cozy with close friends, why not wear some fun New Years nails?
There are tons of options out there, and you can go as all out as you want to, or keep it simple.
I’ve rounded up a mix of gorgeous nails that will suit any style – from bold and bright to simple and chic.
These ideas also make pretty nails for wedding guests, or birthdays…really any celebration is an excuse to do your nails, right?!
You’ll also get tips on how to prep your nails, and make your manicure last longer.
Keep reading for the nail inspiration, and don’t forget to Pin this post!
Stunning New Year’s Nails to Start the Year Off Right
1. Black Square Nails with a Glitter Accent
2. Starry Dark Blue Nails
3. Chic Almond Shape With a Pearl
4. Grey Sparkle Nails
5. Iridescent Glitter Nails
6. Winter Snowflake Nails
7. Frosted Purple
8. Gems on Natural Nails
9. Red and Silver Christmassy Nails
10. Long Silver Glitter
11. All Gold Nails
12. Embellished Deep Green
13. Ombré French Tip
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14. Rose Gold Ombré Nails
15. Purple with Chunky Glitter
16. Chic Deep Red
When you’re reaching for that midnight champagne toast or capturing the perfect Instagram moment, your nails will be front and center.
The right nail design completes your outfit – but it’s also a conversation starter, a confidence booster, and a way to express your personal style.
Plus, starting the year with manicured nails sets a positive tone for your self-care routine in the months ahead!
Choosing Your Perfect Nail Art
There are a few things you’ll want to consider when you’re deciding on your nail look:
1. Nail shape: you can choose from almond, square, oval, coffin, or round – whatever suits you best. Try out something new for the New Year!
2. Accent nails: on one or two fingernails, use a different color or add something extra like glitter or nail stickers.
3. Use nail embellishments: use stamps, foil, metallic stripes, or nail stickers to jazz up your nails.
4. To make it SUPER easy, just use press ons! I’ve linked a few fun designs below.
Nail Prep Tips
- Wash your hands to make sure your nails are clean and oil-free before applying your base coat (make sure your nails are completely dry before painting!)
- Prepare your cuticles properly using a cuticle remover and a cuticle stick or clippers
- Use a nail buffer to smooth the nails, and a file to shape the edges
- Invest in quality base and top coats, and regular polishes – it really does make a difference!
How to Make Your Nail Polish Last Longer
Use a Base Coat
A base coat not only helps your polish adhere better but also provides a protective barrier for your nails, especially if you’re prone to staining or peeling. I usually use this one by Essie.
Avoid Excessive Water Exposure
Wear rubber gloves while cleaning, washing dishes or gardening.
Apply a Top Coat Regularly
Adding a fresh layer of top coat every 2-3 days can help seal in your polish, add shine, and prevent chips. I have two that I currently alternate between: either this Essie top coat, or this China Glaze one.
Avoid Using Your Nails as Tools
Don’t use your nails to open cans, peel off labels, or scrape surfaces. This can cause your polish to chip or your nails to break.
Keep Your Nails Moisturized
Dry nails are more prone to cracking and chipping. Regularly apply cuticle oil and hand lotion to keep your nails hydrated and healthy.
Get the Look with Press On Nails
Want to skip doing the nail art? Here are a few press on nail sets that are fantastic for NYE.
Kiss Gel Fantasy Nails: The glitter ombré design is PERFECT for NYE!
OPI Black and White French Tip Press On Nails: Get salon quality French tips, with a twist
Elegant Touch Gel Finish Glue On Nails: These have a chrome finish, super fun for a night out!
NYE Nails FAQ’s
Metallic shades like gold and silver are traditional favorites, but don’t be afraid to try deep blues, black with glitter, or red nail designs.
The key is choosing a color that makes you feel festive and confident – you don’t have to follow nail trends if you don’t want to!
For January, think sleek, elegant, and cozy—perfect for the start of the year and the winter season.
Rich, deep colors like dark berry, navy, forest green, or classic burgundy are always a hit.
You can also embrace the winter vibe with icy tones like silver, soft blues, and frosty whites, or go for a sparkly twist with metallics and glitters to match the festive energy of the season.
There’s a superstition that one should avoid cutting nails on Chinese New Year as it’s thought to cut away good luck.
Plan your nail maintenance a few days before or after to respect this tradition if it resonates with you.
Red is traditionally considered lucky for Lunar New Year, but gold nail designs and light color glitter nails are also popular choices that symbolize prosperity and good fortune.
Whether you go bold or keep it simple, these wintery nail looks will have you feeling fabulous all night! Nail polish art, acrylics or press ons – what will you wear this NYE?
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