As we step into a fresh new year, there’s no better way to embrace the season than with a fabulous manicure. January nail trends are all about balance: cozy and soft designs, shimmering accents, and frosty hues. Whether you’re drawn to cool-toned velvets, minimalist chic, or playful pops of color, this list has you covered.
With expert insights from Olivia Van Iderstine, Olive & June’s mani trend guru, and Mazz Hanna, CEO of Nailing Hollywood, we’ve rounded up 20 must-try January nail ideas that will set the tone for your year.
1. Cool Sheer Milky White Nails
Sheer milky white nails are the ultimate January refresh.
- Why It Works: This look offers a clean slate for the new year, with soft layers of neutral polish creating a barely-there milky glow.
- Expert Tip: Layer two sheer shades to create a custom tone that feels personal and polished.
2. Chrome Cocoa Ombré Nails
The chrome trend evolves with frosty, cocoa-toned ombré nails.
- Why It Works: Chrome finishes paired with warm shades like cocoa or champagne exude understated glamour.
- Expert Tip: Hanna suggests these nails for anyone looking to balance modernity with a seasonal touch.
3. Minimalist Black and White Nails
Classic black and white gets a chic, geometric update.
- Why It Works: Negative space and clean lines keep the look subtle yet striking.
- Expert Tip: Use metallic or black polish to create simple waves or lines for a modern vibe.
4. Minty Fresh Aura Nails
Start the year with minty green hues that feel refreshing and new.
- Why It Works: Mint green offers a unique pop of color while remaining soft and versatile.
- Expert Tip: Layer a pearlescent top coat for a frosty, winter-ready finish.
5. Mint Green Marble Nails
Elevate mint green with a trendy marble effect.
- Why It Works: This chic design blends elegance and fun with a frosty, marbled texture.
- Expert Tip: Combine mint polish with white or pearlescent shades to mimic marble.
6. Abstract Champagne Shimmer Squiggle Nails
Gold squiggles add warmth and whimsy to neutral bases.
- Why It Works: Perfect for January, this look brings subtle glam without overwhelming.
- Expert Tip: Use gold flakes or metallic polishes to create dynamic, abstract designs.
7. Cool Blue Cat Eye Nails
Frosty blue nails with a velvety, cat-eye shimmer.
- Why It Works: Blue shades offer an icy, wintry aesthetic perfect for the season.
- Expert Tip: Experiment with light and dark blues for depth, or try shifting cat-eye polishes for a hypnotic effect.
8. Baby Blue Bejeweled Aura Nails
Soft blues paired with delicate accents are winter-ready.
- Why It Works: This muted shade feels seasonal while maintaining a light, airy vibe.
- Expert Tip: Add tiny jewels or metallic accents for a touch of elegance.
9. Gold Chrome Rose Gold Velvet Nails
Dual-finish designs pair soft textures with bold metallics.
- Why It Works: This cyber-inspired mani combines shimmery rose gold velvet with champagne chrome for a luxe feel.
10. Hot Cocoa Mix-n-Match Nails
Animal prints meet cozy cocoa tones for a playful, bold design.
- Why It Works: This mix-n-match style combines neutrals with fun patterns for a standout look.
- Expert Tip: Go wild with color combos—try neon pink zebras or pastel cow prints for a whimsical twist.
11. Magenta Velvet Nails
Rich, jewel-toned velvets are perfect for winter warmth.
- Why It Works: Velvet textures feel cozy and luxurious, while bold magenta adds a vibrant pop of color.
12. Metallic Midnight Blue French Tips
Thicker, bold French tips make a powerful statement.
- Why It Works: This updated take on the classic French manicure uses midnight blue metallics for added drama.
- Expert Tip: Press-on nails are a quick and precise way to achieve the perfect bold tip.
13. Midnight Blue Marble Nails
Marbled designs in deep, dramatic tones.
- Why It Works: Inspired by winter skies, navy and charcoal marble nails exude sophistication.
14. Pearly White Micro French Tips
Delicate micro French tips for a minimalist January look.
- Why It Works: Thin, understated lines in white, green, or champagne bring subtle elegance.
15. Minimalist Double Glitter French Tips
Double the French tips, double the charm.
- Why It Works: This art deco-inspired design uses glitzy copper and black glitter for a bold twist.
16. Sheer Subtle Shimmer Nails
Less is more with this understated shimmer.
- Why It Works: A wash of subtle shimmer adds just enough sparkle without feeling overdone.
17. Sheer White Metallic Nails
Silvery metallics over neutral bases bring post-holiday glam.
- Why It Works: These nails feel festive yet fresh, perfect for transitioning into the new year.
18. Sheer Marble Nails
Neutral marble nails in creamy pink tones.
- Why It Works: This soft, ombré effect creates an elevated, versatile manicure.
19. Tiger Nails
Animal print goes bold with tiger-inspired designs.
- Why It Works: This look can be done in classic or playful colors, making it as bold or subtle as you like.
20. Sheer Lavender Shimmer Nails
Delicate lavender tones offer a soft, dreamy aesthetic.
- Why It Works: Lavender is poised to be a major color trend for 2025, and sheer shimmer nails bring it to life.
Whether you prefer minimalist designs, bold textures, or cozy hues, these 20 January nail ideas will inspire your next manicure. Start the year off right with nails that reflect your personal style and embrace the beauty of the season!