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    1. Beauty

    There is only one nail trend I'm interested in right now—these 15 looks are all you need be concerned with

    For the minimalists *and* the maximalists

    Rebecca Fearn's avatar
    By Rebecca Fearn
    Published 12 December 2024 In Features

    When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.

    Fashion week attendee wearing sparkly jacket, sparkly Valentino bag and sparkly nails
    (Image credit: Getty Images/Edward Berthelot / Contributor)
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    I really surprised myself this year by getting into sparkle in a big, big way. For example, I fell back in love with shimmery lip glosses (which felt very early noughties of me) and glitter eyeshadow, meaning my make-up got an instant glam upgrade. What's more, I also got on board with sparkly nails, but in the most understated, subtle way. My new fave BIAB shade, for example, is a beautiful soft pink with a subtle layer of sparkle throughout.

    So, you could say I'm all geared up for the festive season with the ultimate winter manicure trend. And as someone who hates 'more is more' festive nail art, this is about as Christmassy as I can go. Because the great thing about sparkly nail looks is their versatility; you can go all in with all-over sparkle, get some glittery French tips, or try a little negative space nail art with just a touch of shimmer.

    Rebecca Fearn's sparkly nails

    (Image credit: Rebecca Fearn)

    For my upcoming nail appointment next week (the last one before Christmas), I am taking inspiration from this beautiful brown glittery nail look showcased on the Half Magic Instagram account (see below). It looks so cool on long nails, and I feel like it's a very on-trend mani given Pantone's new colour of the year, Mocha Mousse. It also celebrates the festivities to come over the impending two weeks thanks to the sparkle. Trust me, these are the best sparkly nail looks for the upcoming month.

    A post shared by HALF MAGIC (@halfmagicbeauty)

    The best sparkly nail polishes

    Don't want to book into the salon or can't get an appointment during this busy period? Just pick up one of these...

    Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Nail Polish in Shooting Star

    Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Nail Polish in Shooting Star
    £4.99 AT BOOTS

    Essie Core 511 Congrats! Silver Glitter Nail Polish

    Essie Core 511 Congrats! Silver Glitter Nail Polish
    £8.99 AT AMAZON

    Mavala Mini Colour Nail Polish in 215 Pink Diamond

    Mavala Mini Colour Nail Polish in 215 Pink Diamond
    £6.40 AT JOHN LEWIS

    Mylee Spotlight Gel Polish Chocolate Factory

    Mylee Spotlight Gel Polish Chocolate Factory
    £8.99 AT LOOKFANTASTIC

    Best sparkly nails inspiration

    A post shared by Harriet Westmoreland (@harrietwestmoreland)

    Silver sparkly tips are unrivalled when it comes to understated elegance.

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    A post shared by МАНИКЮР | ВДОХНОВЕНИЕ (@arina_vader)

    This beautiful watercolour-inspired look proves sparkly nails don't have to shout to be noticeable.

    A post shared by NAIL ARTIST | RUSSIAN MANICURE | EAST LONDON E14 (@nailsbytammy___)

    Combine a subtle sparkle across the nail with a neon tip for maximum impact.

    Marie Claire Newsletter

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    A post shared by Buff Nail Studios (@buff__studios)

    The look I will be going for over the Christmas period, I love how wintery this feels.

    A post shared by ❤ Hang Nguyen ❤ (@thehangedit)

    Negative space nail art is still huge, and this black sparkly look is ultra-impressive.

    A post shared by Zola Ganzorigt (@nailsbyzola)

    For those who can't let go of their coloured tips, add in a touch of silver sparkle next time, too.

    What to read next
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    A post shared by IMARNI (@imarninails)

    This red nail aesthetic is so festive, suitable for Christmas right through to new year.

    A post shared by Georgia Cotterill | Manchester BIAB & Nail Art Specialist (@the_gelologist)

    Get creative with nail stickers and try some stars or hearts on top of your glitter.

    A post shared by Daisy Marsden (@dais_does_nails)

    If you prefer something subtle, this silver look is beautiful. Add some reusable gems for an extra touch.

    A post shared by Georgia Cotterill | Manchester BIAB & Nail Art Specialist (@the_gelologist)

    Go fully festive with this green glitter all-over colour.

    A post shared by Melanie Graves (@overglowedit)

    I love a bit of mix'n'match nail art, and this is the best sparkly version I've seen lately.

    A post shared by IMARNI (@imarninails)

    Don't be shy; tap into the holographic trend as well as the sparkly one with this dramatic look.

    A post shared by Melanie Graves (@overglowedit)

    Golden girl nails will never be out of style, and a touch of glitter never hurt anyone!

    A post shared by Marissa Marsh Beauty (@marissamarshbeauty)

    I adore this clever design, which may need the help of a pro unless you're super confident with nail art!

    A post shared by Marissa Marsh Beauty (@marissamarshbeauty)

    These ruby red slipper French tips are giving Wizard Of Oz in all the best ways.

    Explore More
    Manicure
    Rebecca Fearn
    Rebecca Fearn
    Social Links Navigation
    Freelance Beauty Journalist and Contributor

    Rebecca is a freelance beauty journalist and contributor to Marie Claire. She has written for titles including Refinery29, The Independent, Grazia, Coveteur, Dazed, Stylist, and Glamour. She is also a brand consultant and has worked with the likes of The Inkey List on campaign messaging and branded copy. She’s obsessed with skincare, nail art and fragrance, and outside of beauty, Rebecca likes to travel, watch true crime docs, pet sausage dogs and drink coffee. Rebecca is also passionate about American politics and mental health awareness.

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