Marie Claire UK Marie Claire UK
  • Fashion Fashion
      • Fashion
        • View all Fashion
        • Fashion Trends
        • Shopping
        • Watches and Jewellery
        • Fashion News
  • Beauty Beauty
      • Beauty
        • View all Beauty
        • Fragrance
        • Hair
        • Make Up
        • Skincare
        • Nails
        • Marie Claire Beauty Awards
  • Health Health
      • Health
        • View all Health
        • Fitness
        • Nutrition
        • Female Health
        • Wellbeing
  • Life Life
      • Life
        • View all Life
        • Opinions
        • Travel
        • Sustainability
        • Weddings
        • Money & Work
        • Competitions
  • Culture Culture
      • Culture
        • View all Culture
        • TV and Film
        • Celebrity News
        • Books
        • Royal News
  • Vouchers Vouchers
      • Clothing
        • View all Vouchers
        • Mint Velvet
        • Karen Millen
        • H&M
        • nobody's child
        • ASOS
        • ARKET
        • MANGO
      • Designer Clothing
        • View all Vouchers
        • Reiss
        • THE OUTNET
        • SSENSE
        • Mytheresa
        • Liberty London
        • Selfridges
        • Farfetch
      • Accessories
        • View all Vouchers
        • AllSaints
        • Aspinal of London
        • Charles & Keith
        • River Island
        • FitFlop
        • Kate Spade
        • Vagabond
      • Jewellery
        • View all Vouchers
        • Pandora
        • Abbott Lyon
        • Goldsmiths
        • Beaverbrooks
        • Astrid & Miyu
        • Swarovski
        • Angara Jewellery
      • Beauty
        • View all Vouchers
        • Sephora
        • Cult Beauty
        • Space NK
        • Dyson
        • Clarins
        • Look Fantastic
        • Clinique
      • Activewear
        • View all Vouchers
        • Lululemon
        • Gymshark
        • Sweaty Betty
        • Nike
        • adidas
        • New Balance
        • Helly Hansen
  • NEWSLETTER Signup to our newsletter
  • logoCreated with Sketch.
    Marie Claire Newsletter

    Celebrity news, beauty, fashion advice, and fascinating features, delivered straight to your inbox!


    By submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.

    You are now subscribed

    Your newsletter sign-up was successful


    An account already exists for this email address, please log in.
    Trending
    • Women in Sport 2026
    • Marie Claire Masters
    • Autumn Winter 2026
    • Nail Trends 2026
    • Best Investment Bags
    • Best Perfumes
    • Digital Issues
    • Women Who Win
    1. Beauty

    I've spoken to the experts—these are the 7 winter nail trends they foresee all the cool girls wearing

    Yes, cinnamon roll nails are in there

    Rebecca Fearn's avatar
    By Rebecca Fearn
    Published 24 November 2024 In Features

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

    A woman clutching a brown suede bag with a brown manicure, a key winter nail trend
    (Image credit: Getty Images/Christian Vierig / Contributor)
    • Facebook
    • X
    • Pinterest
    Share this article
    Join the conversation
    Follow us
    Add us as a preferred source on Google
    Subscribe to our newsletter

    If there's one reason why I get excited for the changing of the seasons, it's to see what winter nail trends I can adopt. Although I have adored some of my autumn nail looks, and I'm a suck for a classic nude hue or orange-toned red shade, I also love a microtrend, be it some cute nail art or a specific colour everyone is getting on-board with (right now I'm big into cabernet nails).

    For this season, I have spoken to two nail experts to determine the hottest winter trends, and even included one I've identified myself (cinnamon roll nails, you're v welcome).

    1. Glass nails

    A post shared by Sarah Haidar (@heluviee)

    A photo posted by on

    Metta Francis, London manicurist and founder of Nails by Mets says glass nails are here to stay for winter, adding a sense of depth to an otherwise ordinary mani. "Magnetic, velvet or cat eye nails aren’t new, but for this winter season, we’re seeing updated methods to incorporate this popular look," she explains.

    "To add depth and dimension, a sheer, jelly shade is applied over the cat eye effect. It gives an encapsulated, glassy look - for winter, expect to see icy hues and deep shades for the season such a sapphire blue, deep ruby reds and browns." I can't wait to try this with a burgundy hue.

    Chanel Le Vernis in Rouge Noir

    Chanel Le Vernis in Rouge Noir
    £29 AT CHANEL

    Manucurist Green Natural Nail Polish in Utopia

    Manucurist Green Natural Nail Polish in Utopia
    £14 AT MANUCURIST

    2. Animal prints

    A post shared by Shoreditch Nails (@shoreditchnails)

    A photo posted by on

    Juanita Huber-Millet, Founder and Creative Director at Townhouse, explains that animal print nails are deeply embedded in winter trends this year, but with a twist.

    You may like
    • Autumn Nail Trends 2026 From Fawn Print to Milky Matcha—These Are Autumn 2026’s Defining Nail Trends
    • Best nail strengtheners The Autumn Nail Reset: Strengtheners That Repair Brittle, Weather-Worn Nails
    • How to keep long nails clean My Long, Natural Nails Never Look Clean—Here’s How 3 Nail Experts Recommend Keeping Them Salon-Fresh

    "Animal prints are the quintessential statement of winter nail art, bringing a touch of wild sophistication to your fingertips," she begins. "From fierce cheetah prints to subtle zebra textures, these designs inject an element of bold, adventurous spirit into your everyday look."

    "Wild prints are perfect for those who want to stand out and embrace a trend that combines timeless elegance with contemporary flair."

    Marie Claire Newsletter

    Celebrity news, beauty, fashion advice, and fascinating features, delivered straight to your inbox!

    By submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.

    3. The 'Wicked' effect

    A post shared by Anahi Victoria (@avrnailswatches)

    A photo posted by on

    Wicked is undeniably the movie of the season, and the ultra-covetable, magical fashion and beauty within the film make it even more of a cinematic experience. It therefore comes as no surprise that this has influenced the way we get our manicures done.

    "With the much anticipated movie release, I’m seeing a big rise in elaborate green nails from green glitter, to chunky bejewelled long nails," notes Metta. "Whilst not necessarily practical for everyday wear, green will be a popular look this winter—from glitter green tips, green cat eye and emerald green shades."

    Revlon Ultra HD Snap Nail Polish in Commander In Chief

    Revlon Ultra HD Snap Nail Polish in Commander In Chief
    £6.99 AT AMAZON

    OPI Nail Lacquer in Midnight Snacc

    OPI Nail Lacquer in Midnight Snacc
    £15.60 AT OPI

    4. Winter florals

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

    A photo posted by on

    Another classic trend that's celebrating a resurgence , says Juanita, is the floral nail. But it's not just any floral: it's a winter floral.

    What to read next
    • Gel nail polish ban Bella Emar wears white Polo Club Top, white high waisted Sézane Skirt, white bag, Rolex Datejust watch on August 03, 2025 in Berlin, Germany. Is Gel Polish Inherently Problematic? Inside Gel Polish’s Never-Ending Safety Scandals
    • AW26 Shoe Trends From Heeled Loafers to Square Toes and Lace-Up Courts, Consider This Your Guide to Autumn's Defining Shoe Trends
    • AW26 denim trends listing Autumn's Denim Trends Are Already Surfacing—Here Are the Cuts, Colours and Details to Know Now

    "Floral-inspired nail art adds a delicate touch of nature to your fingertips, transforming your nails into works of art," she says. "Paired with a subtle chrome finish, metallic silver or gold flecks, floral inspired patterns create a mesmerising contrast, blending vintage elegance with a modern twist."

    The founder adds: "This look is perfect for those who want their nails to exude timeless sophistication with a hint of glamour."

    5. Isolate chrome

    A post shared by @badgirlsgoodnails

    A photo posted by on

    If the idea of an all-over colour on the nails fills you with dread, you may be in the market for something a little more out there. Metta has just the thing.

    "For nail art lovers, isolated chrome designs will be popular," she explains. "Think 3D, jewel-like looks with embellishments (even on short nails), which are perfect the upcoming party and festive session."

    If you're a little nervous, there are options: "for a more subtle version, layered isolated chrome designs will reign."

    6. French finish

    A post shared by Harriet Westmoreland (@harrietwestmoreland)

    A photo posted by on

    Every season, a different take on the classic French manicure enters the chat, and this season, it's based in autumn/winter colour schemes.

    "The French manicure takes a fun turn this fall, with traditional white tips being replaced by rich autumnal tones," says Juanita. "Also, expect to see this being paired with playful nail art accents. This fashionable spin on a classic look brings a touch of style to your nails, blending sophistication with a hint of creativity. This look is ideal for those who want to keep things chic yet express their personality in a fresh, stylish way."

    My personal favourites are burgundy and forest-green tips.

    7. Cinnamon roll mani

    A post shared by rhode skin (@rhode)

    A photo posted by on

    A personal favourite of mine, cinnamon roll nails are the near-delectable trend I'll be coveting all winter long. I am a total sucker for anything Hailey Bieber does to her nails, so the designs she's been rocking in recent campaigns to celebrate the launch of Rhode's Cinnamon Roll Peptide Lip Tint have me utterly influenced. Crisp, golden-brown hues with a glazed finish are the way to go, if you ask me.

    Nails Inc. Caught In The Nude Nail Polish in Hawaii Beach

    Nails Inc. Caught In The Nude Nail Polish in Hawaii Beach
    £8 AT CULT BEAUTY

    Essie Special Effects Nail Polish Topcoat in Gilded Galaxy

    Essie Special Effects Nail Polish Topcoat in Gilded Galaxy
    £6.39 (WAS £8.99) AT AMAZON

    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.

    Read more
    Autumn Nail Trends 2026
    Nails From Fawn Print to Milky Matcha—These Are Autumn 2026’s Defining Nail Trends
    Best nail strengtheners
    Beauty The Autumn Nail Reset: Strengtheners That Repair Brittle, Weather-Worn Nails
     
     
    How to keep long nails clean
    Beauty My Long, Natural Nails Never Look Clean—Here’s How 3 Nail Experts Recommend Keeping Them Salon-Fresh
    Gel nail polish ban Bella Emar wears white Polo Club Top, white high waisted Sézane Skirt, white bag, Rolex Datejust watch on August 03, 2025 in Berlin, Germany.
    Beauty Is Gel Polish Inherently Problematic? Inside Gel Polish’s Never-Ending Safety Scandals
     
     
    Latest in Beauty
    Beauty Moodboard SS27
    Beauty ’90s Kate Moss, Stevie Nicks and “Digital” Skin—The Beauty References to Inspire You for the Season Ahead
    The Beauty Digest: New Products to Know
    Beauty The Beauty Digest: A Foundation With Infinite Shades, Diptyque Does Bodycare, and the Exhibition Every Beauty Lover Should See
     
     
    Best products for frizzy hair in the rain
    Hair Autumn Rain Wreaks Havoc on My Frizz-Prone Hair—These Are the Products That Keep It Smooth Without Weighing It Down
    Erborian Triple Care BB Milk
    Skincare I Thought My Dull, Lifeless Skin Needed More Actives—This Milky Essence Was Actually the Solution
     
     
    Latest in Features
    The best things to do this September
    Culture The Agenda: The New-Season Cultural Reset
    Female athletes crossing the finish line at a track and field event
    Fitness Why We Should Care About Sexualisation in Women's Sport—and How It’s Bigger Than Sydney Sweeney
     
     
    NYFW ss27 outfits to wear now
    Fashion I Just Got Back From New York: These 6 Outfits Deserve a Spot in Your Autumn Rotation
    Michelle Obama Liffner bag
    Fashion Michelle Obama Just Wore the Sophisticated Bag Brand Every Fashion Insider is Obsessed With
     
     
    logoCreated with Sketch.
    • Site Archive
    • Contact Future's experts
    • Contact us
    • Terms and conditions
    • Advertise with us
    • Privacy policy
    • Cookies policy
    • About us
    Add as a preferred source on Google Add as a preferred source on Google

    Marie Claire UK is part of Future plc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Visit our corporate site.

    © Future Publishing Limited Quay House, The Ambury, Bath BA1 1UA. All rights reserved. England and Wales company registration number 2008885.