The 7 Best Nail Colors for December, According to Experts

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Originally written by Isabelle Buneo; Updated by Jessica Fields Updated: Nov 7, 2025

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GELCARE / IG: @banicured_

Like it or not, the beginning of November signals the start of the holiday season. Soon, we’ll be decorating, gathering with family and friends, and toasting to good cheer. It’s easy to let December slip by, but the month has plenty to offer before the festivities begin—including fresh manicure inspiration.

This year, the best nail colors for December embrace subtle nods to the holidays. Staple shades like red and green are sticking around but taking on a moodier feel. Think oxblood, forest and moss tones that capture the season while remaining chic and timeless. Classic shimmery polishes are getting a modern refresh, too, leaning into trends like cat-eye nails and soft, sparkly finishes.

Choosing just one look can be dizzying, so we enlisted two experts to share the shades that will dominate December.

Featured Experts

Bana Jarjour is a celebrity manicurist
Amy Ling Lin is the founder and CEO of Sundays Studio

Nail Shades to Try in December

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Dark Cherry

A red manicure is a classic choice that works year-round. The trick is selecting a shade that’s fitting for the season. For December, a deeper, more sophisticated red is ideal for winter nights and the month’s many celebrations, says Amy Ling Lin, founder and CEO of sundays studio.

Two to try: Sundays No.17 ($18), Gucci Goldie Red ($30)

Sundays No.17 dark cherry red nail polish

IG: @sundays_studio

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Oxblood

For a moodier take on red, reach for an oxblood shade. With rich mahogany undertones, it creates a bold manicure that’s as edgy as it is effortless. It’s the perfect transition shade as we move into December and the winter season.

Two to try: Orly Persistent Memory ($11), Dazzle Dry Passionate Red ($22)

Long almond nails with dark red nail polish

IG: @banicured_

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Barley There Nudes

The early months of 2025 delivered one neutral nail trend after another. While soap styles and ice cream nails have dwindled in popularity, the softness of the look is still trending. A creamy, almost transparent nude is taking over in their place. To get the look, opt for a flesh-toned shade with a semi-transparent finish.

Two to try: Gelcare Nude BB Cream ($24), Manucurist Active Smooth ($19)

IG: @banicured_

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Forest Green

According to celebrity manicurist Bana Jarjour, dark green is poised to be the season’s next it color. “It’s a small step away from the deep reds we are used to seeing, but it is growing more and more popular each year,” she says. Opting for a deep forest shade with a glossy finish delivers the same elegance as black but has a modern feel.

Two to try: Dashing Diva Manhunt ($12), Gitti Moss Green ($20)

IG: @dashingdiva_usa

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Liquid Gold

With the holiday season in full swing, you’ll likely be sporting a shimmery manicure at least once this December. While silver is not completely out, Lin says a soft gold shimmer is more fitting. “Its warmth mimics the same joy and brightness of the month and adds a touch of festive glow,” she says.

Two to try: Sundays No.1 ($18), Essie Good as Gold ($10)

Short nails with shimmery metallic nail polish

IG: @sundays_studio

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Dusty Rose

Pastels have a cozy feel when paired with muted undertones, making them perfect for the colder months. Dusty rose strikes a balance between soft and subtle and works well on any skin tone. Jarjour adds that warm pinks marry coziness with sophistication to deliver a timeless finish.

Two to try: OPI Tickle My France-y ($21), DND Ash Rose ($12)

IG: @sundays_studio

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Starry Midnight

“Cat-eye nail looks have been trending all year, but December is really its time to embrace them,” says Jarjour. To create the effect, look for a deep navy magnetic polish with tiny flecks of silver glitter. Once applied, use the magnet to manipulate the polish and create the shimmering sky effect. Then, top finish with a high-shine top coat.

Two to try: Dashing Diva Blu ($13), ILNP Ritual ($13)