If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.
- Nails
Might we suggest a manicure that's just as cool as the weather? The great thing about a chilly, ice-inspired manicure is that the finish is often shimmery or metallic, automatically adding a glamorous flair. You can keep things simple with a coat of confetti polish or go full artiste with a more intricate design. From blue chrome to sparkling glitter and crystal clusters, there are myriad ways to pull off an icy set of nails.
Whether you're a sucker for the cold weather, appreciate the blinged-out things in life, or both, we've put together 20 icy nail ideas for winter. Scroll ahead to see them.
01of 20
Shivering Shimmer
Wedgie by Death Valley Nails is a milky neutral with green-blue specks of shimmer. A few coats make for a simple, frosty manicure that will pair with every one of your winter looks. Fun fact: This polish also glows in the dark.
02of 20
The Pearl-fect Touch
Nail artist Phoebe Cascarina used the Gelcare shades Ivory Pearl and Nude BB Cream to create this swirly mani. The mix of French tips and all-over color gives the finished look a classic and elegant balance.
03of 20
French Pearl
If you want to keep things classic, try swirly French tips on every nail. The subtle design and pearl gems are a trendy update to the timeless style.
04of 20
Frosty Nails
These frosty nails have a faint blue undertone with shimmers of gold and green that beautifully bounce off that light. We love the glamorous elegance of this set, which is still understated enough for every day. It's all about balance!
05of 20
Icy Clusters
These shimmery nails with icy clusters may be worth a shot if you're looking for a chilly maximalist look. The blinged-out set is perfect for New Year's celebrations or simply adding some glamour to cold winter days.
06of 20
Sheer Sparkle
The base of these glittery nails is kept sheer for an ethereal flair, while the shiny silver specks recall glistening snow. The micro pearls add textured contrast.
07of 20
Twinkle Tips
Use a formula with larger specks for more concentrated glitter. These French tips are extra sparkly in a light-catching silver. Go full-on with glitter French tips on each nail, or add a snowflake accent nail to break up the razzle-dazzle.
08of 20
Disco Bling
Sometimes less is more, and these sparkly nails are proof. Nail artist Anna used Disco Dust Taco by Holo Taco, a sheer topper with rainbow sparkles. For a subtle, icy look, apply the topper over clean, unpolished nails.
09of 20
Holiday Holly
Shades of white and cream are swirled together in this pearlescent manicure. French tips with holiday holly are on-theme for the season, but the art can also be swapped for snowflakes or nail gems.
10of 20
Varied Crescents
If you're feeling creative, give these silver shimmer nails with irregular crescents a go. Placing the crescents on different spots on each nail creates an abstract look.
11of 20
Vanilla Chrome
An alternative to a classic white mani, these vanilla chrome nails give off a chic winter vibe. The length, shape, and finish elevate the uber-feminine aesthetic.
12of 20
Glaze Icing
These shiny, milky nails remind us of the sweet glaze frosting on a doughnut or pastry. Nail artist Lauren Phelps used Funny Bunny and You're Full of Abalone by OPI to create them. While the latter has been discontinued, you can get a similar look with Glazed N' Amused.
13of 20
Alien Superstar
Silver glitter and chrome? Yes, please! This combination is celestial and otherworldly. Nail stickers and gems allow you to create a gorgeous design without the pressure of precision.
14of 20
Silver Confetti
Glitter makes everything better, to be honest. The base of these nails is kept neutral and simple, while chunks of silver glitter coat the tips. They're icy, festive, and stunning—a win, win, win!
15of 20
Gradient Pearl
This set is what fairytales are made of! Both whimsical and refined, lavender and pearl are swirled together for a stunning gradient. The flecks of shimmer are a small but appreciated detail.
16of 20
Icy Blue
Could you add gems and nail art to a frosty cornflower blue? Sure. Do you need to? Not at all. The color is so gorgeous it can stand all on its own.
17of 20
Defrosted Tips
This icy mani is fairly simple to achieve: Paint your base neutral, and apply white around the tips with a sponge for a defrosted effect. Take it up a notch by incorporating some silver glitter texture.
18of 20
Melted Chrome
Cool shades of teal, purple, yellow, and silver run together like a puddle of metal. The icy metallic finish is a great winter choice. For a similar look, combine at least three cool-toned polishes.
19of 20
Sparkling Blue
Top off your favorite blue with a coat or two of blue-green or silver shimmer. It instantly adds an icy effect and makes for the perfect finishing touch to all of your holiday party looks.
20of 20
Cotton Candy Icy
Forget visions of sugar plums: Each nail in this set features a different pearlescent pastel that reminds us of swirls of cotton candy.