Winter Nail Colors to Embrace the Moody Vibes of the Season
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The winter months can make even the brightest of us want to reach for our darkest shades – from our clothes to even our nail polish colors. However, we feel it's time to switch up the narrative and infuse some much-needed color into the season, whether you follow a bi-weekly nail appointment or subscribe to the DIY manicure. Let's be clear: though we still love our dark colors, this year lends itself to a different take on the classics.
This winter, "it's time to level up artistry with high-opacity, hyper-pigmented colors for graphic prints, pop art, modern art, graphic line work, and every level of expressive hand painting," Jan Arnold, co-founder of CND, says.
The biggest themes in winter nail colors mirror our fashion trends, from Pantone's color of the year to updated classics. It's every color for every mood during the year. Ahead, we're breaking down the best dark winter nail colors and neutrals you can expect to see everywhere this season — plus our favorite shopping options.
Experts Featured in This Article
Jan Arnold is the co-founder of CND.
Eunice Park is the brand director at Aprés Nail.
Tasama Craig is the founder of Vanity House NYC.
Sharon Ladokun is a manicurist and gel-X specialist.
Vanessa McCullough is a celebrity manicurist and CND education ambassador.
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Mocha Mousse Nail Polish
Essie Nail Lacquer in Crochet Away ($10)
If you want a classy winter nail color, turn your attention to Pantone's color of the year. For 2025, Mocha Mousse has been named as the hottest hue. "You've seen this color in a variety of nail art combos on TikTok, such as Moscow-mule nails," says Eunice Park, brand director at Aprés Nail. Mocha mousse is the perfect neutral, and depending on the number of coats you apply, it can range from light brown to a deeper, moodier hue. If you're booking an appointment with a pro, "OPI GelColor in Material Gworl (salon only) is a great shade for all complexions," says Tasama Craig, founder of Vanity House NYC.
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Soapy Nude Nail Polish
Aprés Gel Couleur in Fairy Wings ($15)
Nudes are predicted to continue to dominate in 2025, and this includes for winter color nails. Celebrities like Hailey Bieber, who popularized the clean, all-natural nail look, are to thank for this go-to nail color staple. Soap nails are timeless, chic, and perfect for any occasion. "Whether the nail is a sheer wash of color or a full-coverage nude, they always create an elegant look," says Sharon Ladokun, manicurist and gel-X specialist. To turn it up a notch, celebrity manicurist Vanessa McCullough suggests adding chrome powder over your choice of nude. "It's really fun to play with them over all different shades to add some glowing high gloss shine," she says.
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Dark Cherry Nail Polish
Addiction Tokyo in Cherry Cocktail ($19)
Deep reds have been a classic choice for years, but dark cherry gives that trend an update. Dress it up with some subtle glitter, like with Aprés Ruby Slippers ($15), or leave them as is for a sophisticated look that goes well for any occasion.
Another variation of the dark-cherry trend is chocolate-cherry nails, which are also making waves this year. "Think Aprés Gel Couleur in Wine O'Clock ($15) for that bold, sultry look that works for both winter and special events. "Chocolate cherry has been spotted on everyone from Selena Gomez to fashion influencers," says Ladokun.
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Gold Chrome Nail Polish
OPI Metallic Mega Mix Nail Lacquer Collection ($12)
We've seen a lot of silver metallics over the last year, but experts are forecasting gold metallics for this winter. It's bold, glamorous, and perfect for making a statement. "After the popularity of silver chrome manicures in 2024, gold is stepping in as the new favorite. Pair a nude or deep red base with gold chrome powder to achieve that sleek, metallic finish," Ladokun says. You can add a gold chrome power on top of any nail polish color using the CND Over the Top Effects 4 Piece Kit ($55).
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Chocolate Brown Nail Polish
CND VINYLUX Long Wear Nail Polish in Arrowhead ($11)
According to our wardrobes, chocolate brown is the new black, and its influence extends to our fingertips. Chocolate brown is becoming a go-to for many. It's cozy, versatile, and pairs well with neutral outfits. "[Chocolate brown proves] how flattering a color can be on all skin tones," says Ladokun.
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Taryn Brooke is a beauty writer and editor born and bred in New York City who has been in digital media for over 10 years. She is a contributing beauty writer for PS, Allure, Byrdie, and Well+Good.