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While red and green are the traditional colors of Christmas, you can still embody the holiday spirit with a monochromatic take. Going red—arguably the most alluring of the two—is a striking way to approach a Christmas nail design and put a festive spin on red nail theory.
“Red nails are great because there are so many different shades and undertones that can be paired with any skin tone or personal preference,” Mazz Hanna, celebrity nail artist and CEO of Nailing Hollywood shares. “Red nails are truly timeless and chic.”
Trust that there are many ways to make classic red nails even more merry and bright. Think of all the classic elements of a festive mani—bows, shimmer, and French tips—but in red.
Browse 18 red Christmas nail ideas below to prepare for a fabulous December manicure. Whether you love a simple or spectacular look, we've got options for you.
Simple Red
Sleek and simple, a red manicure is more than enough to get in the holiday spirit. The look is classic paired with a clean almond shape.
Sparkly Finish
A chunky sparkle encased in a high-shine red is a glitzy approach to a red nail. With a glitter this large, having it mixed into the polish rather than sitting on top allows for a sleeker finish.
Sweet French
Clean and classic, a French nail design is great for any season. But when done in a festive hue? It's perfect for Christmas.
Red and Gold
This metallic nail design focuses on red. It features a gold base topped with red jelly polish on the majority of the nail.
Wrapped With a Bow
For a short Christmas nail look, top a shimmery red polish with a bow accent nail.
Velvet Accent
Velvet polish is perfect for the holidays. This design features a mix of red velvet polish with a matte milky nail topped with a garland design.
Red Velvet
For a simple yet striking design, go for a velvet polish, aka cat eye, look on each nail. The design is created by holding a magnet over a magnetic polish.
Coffin Tips
A sharp coffin is the perfect way to add some edge to a Christmas nail design. Especially with a red French tip.
Bow-Tied Bordeaux
Although bright red is the classic choice, you can still get that Christmas look with a deeper hue. This look features a red wine base topped with stars and a bow.
Red Chrome
Take a simple red mani to the next level with a topping of red chrome powder. It'll make your nails as reflective as an ornament.
Metallic French
This striking design blends French tips with a cuticle nail design. It uses a blend of metallic red and a snowy white.
Reflective Shimmer
For those who love a full-glitter look, take it to the next level with a bow on each hand.
Glittering Plaid
Plaid embodies the cozy vibes of this time of year. It's the perfect accent in a red Christmas nail design—especially with an added touch of sparkle.
Little Gifts
Red ribbon stands out against this classic French tip. The bows are hand-painted in a shimmery red polish with a touch of silver glitter in the middle.
Exaggerated French
For a funky take on the French manicure, take the ends of the arch far beyond the smile line and continue them to the base of the nail.
Candy Tips
Blend red with white to create this candy cane French tip. It's highlighted with a silver gem.
High Gloss
A high-gloss finish can make a simple manicure look incredible.
Dainty Holly
For a holly jolly accent nail, go for a white base topped with a blend of evergreen stems and red holly berries.