For eleven months of the year, I’m an all-black-everything kinda girl, but as soon as the festive season rolls around I have an incessant need to put glitter on everything. If you don’t share this sickness (it really is a sickness) or ire on the side of understated – regardless what month it is – then I assure you, embracing sparkle doesn’t have to be maximalist. We’ve found a bunch of nail art designs that are equal measures festive and wearable – even if you’re a minimalist.
An accent nail (usually on your ring finger) can spruce up even the simplest of manicures – try a glitter or metallic polish in a similar shade to keep it subtle – or add some simple detail at the tip or cuticle, such as a metallic half-moon or glitter dot.
By Beth Ludolf
FAQs
How can you add festive sparkle to your nails without going over the top?
You can add a subtle touch of sparkle by choosing a glitter or metallic polish for an accent nail, usually on the ring finger. Matching the shade to your base colour keeps the look understated while still feeling festive.
What is an accent nail and how do you create one?
An accent nail is when you paint one nail—often the ring finger—a different colour or with a special design to stand out. Using a complementary glitter or metallic polish is an easy way to create an accent while keeping your manicure simple.
Which nail art details work best if you prefer a minimalist look?
Simple details like a metallic half-moon or a glitter dot at the tip or cuticle add festive flair without overwhelming a manicure. These small designs keep your style elegant and wearable at any time of year.
Can you wear glitter nail art if you prefer understated styles?
Yes, you can embrace glitter nail art in a subtle way by choosing designs that only highlight one nail or use minimal accents. Even if you usually avoid bold looks, you can find options that are both festive and minimal.