Nails
Dec 15, 2023

The Metallic Nails Trend Is About to Take Over—13 Designs We Love For Winter

by Mica Ricketts

The end of the year is fast approaching, but the emerging nail trends show no signs of slowing down. 2023 has truly been the year that nails have dominated the beauty scene with trends to cater to every taste; milky hues, dark French tips, Barbiecore nail art, and more. And for winter, it’s metallic nails that look set to be everywhere.

“Metallic nails are super versatile and a great way to add interest to a manicure. Effects can vary from pearlized colours, subtle shimmers, glazed shades or mirror-like chromes, depending on how much of a statement you want to make,” explains session manicurist Ami Streets.

And while metallics might sound like something classically associated with party season, they’re actually surprisingly versatile. “I love a high-shine metallic finish in classic silver or gold in minimal nail art designs,” says Streets. “Half moon manis, French tips, or even a barely-there dot means metallic nails can actually be understated enough to wear everyday.” Basically, metallic nails aren’t just for party season.

Ahead, all of the metallic nail inspiration you need for your next salon appointment. Plus, our favourite metallic nail colours to try the trend at home.

Metallic Nail Polish Trend: Matcha Chrome Nails

Photo:

@abrowngirlrecommends

The nail artist behind this eye-catching look used a sage-coloured chrome powder to create this chic matcha-inspired mani.

Photo:

@overglowedit

This cherry-red shade is everywhere right now, and looks just as great in a metallic finish.

Metallic Nail Trend: Green French Mani and Stars

Photo:

@nailsbymh

Possibly the coolest way take on the metallic nail trend that I've seen—I'm obsessed with the vibrant colour, the French tips and the star detailing.

Photo:

@nailsbymh

Metallics lend themselves to fun nail art, and this psychedelic, '70s-inspired design is wonderfully playful.

Metallic Nail Trend: Charlize Theron Silver Nails

Photo:

@tombachik

Charlize Theron's metallic silver nails turned heads at Paris Fashion Week with their high-shine finish.

Photo:

@nailartbyqueenie

Streets told me that one her favourite things about the metallic nail trend is the way that it can "add interest and texture to your polish" as this multi-dimensional look demonstrates.

Photo:

@nailsbymh

Dua Lipa's disco ball-inspired nails from her 'Dance The Night' music video are totally party-ready.

Photo:

@nailsbyzola

These metallic Barbie pink French tips are absolute perfection.

Photo:

@themaniclub

Metallic nails don't always have to be bright, this deep navy imbued with shimmer creates a sophisticated, galaxy-inspired manicure.

Photo:

@thehotblend

If you're a minimalist when it comes to nail art then silver French tips are a pleasingly subtle way to experiment with the metallic nail trend.

Photo:

@nailsbymh

For a more impactful take on the trend, try your favourite nail colour in an all-over metallic finish. This powdery pink has been making waves for 2023 and looks great in a chrome texture.

Photo:

@iramshelton

Brown nails are very much the colour of the moment, and this deep chocolate shade has a subtle shimmer running through it for a metallic edge.

Photo:

@betina_goldstein

Micro French tips are one of my favourite takes on minimalist nail art, and these molten gold metallic ones are up there on my wish list.

Chanel

Le Vernis Longwear Nail Colour in Sequins 171

£29

Shop Now

Streets rates this new Chanel shade for its "subtle silver shimmer that's perfect for festive parties".

OPI

Terribly Nice Nail Polish in Hot Toddy Naughty

£15

Shop Now

This is the same shade used to create that chocolate brown metallic nail look above, and it's perfect for autumn-winter.

Mavala

Nail Polish in 259 Madras

£6

Shop Now

This vibrant cherry-red shade looks beautiful in a metallic sheen.

Essie

Winter Collection Apres Chic

£9

Shop Now

Silvers and golds are a classic choice when it comes to trying the metallic trend and this opaque, glistening silver from Essie is one of my favourites.