101 December Nail Designs

As the festive season rolls in, it’s time to trade in those fall hues for something a little more sparkly, cozy, and merry. December nails and December nail designs are all about celebrating the holiday spirit, from snowflake patterns and candy cane stripes to elegant glitter tips and cozy sweater prints. Whether you’re attending a holiday party, prepping for a cozy family get-together, or simply want to express your festive cheer, your nails can be the perfect canvas.

This season’s nail trends bring a mix of traditional red, green, and white combos, as well as contemporary takes like icy blues, dainty pinks, and metallic silvers. The list below features 47 insanely cute nail designs you’ll want to recreate throughout December. These designs range from minimalist accents to bold holiday statements — perfect for all nail lengths and styles. From cute snowman art to sophisticated holiday swirls, you’re sure to find a December nail look that fits your vibe.

1. It’s Giving December Vibes Nails

This design screams holiday joy with a mix of soft whites, shimmering silvers, and a hint of red to represent the spirit of December. Each nail tells a different festive story — think mini snowflakes, candy cane accents, and icy sparkles. Perfect for those who want to showcase a complete holiday vibe without being too loud, this nail set brings cozy winter mornings and festive night-outs together. These nails work great on medium to long lengths and can be done in glossy or matte finish depending on your mood. Add some rhinestones or glitter to elevate the sparkle.

2. Blue Glitter December Nail Designs

Blue glitter nails are an absolute December must-have. They mimic the icy frost and sparkling snowflakes of the season. Choose a vibrant royal blue or go with a subtle baby blue base, then top it off with chunky or fine silver glitter. You can paint all nails blue glitter or mix and match with plain nails and accent fingers. This design is especially stunning for New Year’s Eve or any winter-themed event. The shimmer reflects light beautifully, creating an elegant and festive look. Pair it with silver rings and winter outfits for the complete holiday glow.

3. Royal Blue December Nails with Classic Snowflake

If you’re aiming for elegance and a winter wonderland theme, royal blue nails with white snowflake art are the perfect choice. The deep hue of blue captures the crisp chill of December, while intricate snowflakes painted on accent nails make them holiday-appropriate. Add a glossy topcoat for extra shine, or go matte for a more sophisticated finish. You can alternate between full blue nails and snowflake tips for a balanced design. This style is ideal for both casual and formal December occasions and complements silver or crystal accessories effortlessly.

4. Christmas French Tip Nails for December

Give the classic French tip a holiday twist by swapping out the white tips with festive reds, greens, or even candy cane stripes. These nails offer a clean, polished look while still keeping things seasonal. Add tiny holly or snowflake decals near the tips for extra charm. Whether you prefer almond, square, or coffin-shaped nails, this design is versatile and can be customized to your holiday vibe. It’s perfect for someone who wants festive nails without going too bold. Keep the base sheer or nude for a modern minimalist appeal.

5. Holiday Swirls

Holiday swirl nails are fun, creative, and ideal for December celebrations. Combine red, green, white, and gold in swirling patterns across your nails to create a candy-cane-meets-art effect. This design works well on all nail shapes and lengths. The swirls add movement and festivity while allowing you to play with different shades and finishes — matte red, glossy green, or metallic gold. These nails feel like a cozy Christmas movie in manicure form. Great for DIY nail art or a trip to your favorite salon to make a bold yet wearable December statement.

6. Red December Nails for Christmas

You can never go wrong with red nails in December. They’re classic, bold, and instantly bring Christmas vibes. Go with a rich crimson or a sparkly ruby red, depending on your mood. This design is versatile — you can wear it plain, with glitter, or with festive accents like gold lines or mini snowflakes. Red December nails look stunning on short, medium, or long nails and suit every skin tone. Pair with cozy knits or a red lip to complete the look. They’re the ultimate go-to for a simple yet powerful festive manicure.

7. Abstract Nails

Abstract December nails are for those who love art and creativity. This design often mixes various shapes, colors, and patterns like brush strokes, dots, and swirls using festive hues such as gold, red, green, and white. The result is a unique and eye-catching manicure that feels modern and artsy. You can focus on a few nails as accent pieces or go all out on each nail. These designs offer flexibility and are perfect for those who want to blend holiday spirit with contemporary nail trends. A glossy finish ties the look together beautifully.

8. Black Galaxy December Nails for NYE

Celebrate New Year’s Eve with black galaxy nails that sparkle like the night sky. Using a black base, layer iridescent or holographic glitter to resemble stars and cosmic dust. You can add silver foil or star stickers for an even more celestial look. These nails are dramatic, festive, and perfect for late-night celebrations. Pair them with metallic outfits and bold makeup for a full glam effect. This design also works well with stiletto or coffin-shaped nails for added drama. A topcoat ensures long-lasting shine and brilliance.

9. Pink Dainty Snowflakes

Soft pink nails with delicate snowflake accents offer a more feminine and subtle take on December nail art. These nails are perfect for those who love pastel aesthetics while still wanting to be festive. Use a light blush or baby pink base, then add tiny snowflakes using white polish or decals. A bit of shimmer or rhinestone in the center of the snowflakes adds a magical touch. These nails pair beautifully with cozy sweaters and are perfect for daytime holiday events or casual winter hangouts.

10. Cute December Nail Art for Christmas

This nail design features a blend of Christmas characters and symbols like reindeer, Santa, candy canes, and Christmas trees. Each nail can have a different character or theme, making your hands look like a holiday storyboard. Go for vibrant reds, greens, whites, and golds to bring each tiny character to life. These nails are playful and perfect for spreading joy. Ideal for younger audiences or anyone wanting to feel whimsical, this nail art will get compliments everywhere. Use nail stickers or detailed brushwork depending on your comfort level.

11. Gingerbread Cookie Nails

Gingerbread cookie nails are the definition of sweet holiday charm. Think warm browns, whites, and a hint of red, mimicking the delicious look of holiday cookies. You can add adorable details like gingerbread men, icing swirls, candy dots, and even tiny buttons to bring the theme to life. Use a matte finish to replicate the look of baked cookies or add a subtle shimmer for a sugar-dusted effect. These nails work best on medium to long lengths and can be customized for a cute or classy feel. Perfect for holiday baking days or festive gatherings, gingerbread nails are playful and nostalgic.

12. Matte Christmas Tree Nail Design

Matte Christmas tree nail designs are ideal for those who prefer elegance with a holiday twist. Use a forest green or deep red matte base and add minimalistic Christmas tree shapes using gold foil, rhinestones, or thin white lines. You can keep the trees subtle on just one or two accent nails or make every nail festive. This design brings together modern trends and timeless holiday symbols, perfect for office parties or family celebrations. The matte finish gives it a contemporary edge while the design remains festive and graceful. It’s a beautiful balance of minimal and merry.

13. Peppermint Snow Nails for December

Peppermint snow nails bring together red and white stripes with frosty snowflake details — the ultimate December duo. Start with a white base, then add red swirl lines to mimic peppermint candy. Top it off with silver glitter or snowflake decals for that snowy sparkle. This design is festive and fresh, perfect for all nail shapes. It works well with both short and long nails and brings a burst of holiday cheer to your hands. These nails are great for Christmas morning photos, gifting days, or simply spreading some candy-cane joy wherever you go.

14. Platinum Sparkly December Tip Nails

Platinum sparkly tip nails are your go-to for glam December nights. Think French tips but elevated — with glittering platinum polish that glows under holiday lights. Use a nude or pale pink base and coat the tips in ultra-fine silver or platinum glitter. Add a shimmer topcoat for extra glow. These nails are classy enough for formal events like holiday dinners, weddings, or New Year’s parties, but versatile enough for everyday wear too. This chic and minimal style fits square, almond, or coffin shapes best and complements silver jewelry or winter-themed fashion beautifully.

15. Glittery Pink Holiday Nails for December

If you love pink, this holiday nail design is for you. Combine shades of pink — from blush to fuchsia — with glitter accents for a playful and festive vibe. You can go all-pink glitter or alternate with solid pink and sparkle accent nails. Add holiday icons like mini stars, snowflakes, or hearts in silver or white to tie it into the December theme. These nails offer a softer, more feminine take on traditional Christmas colors. They’re ideal for anyone wanting to stand out with a unique but cheerful manicure that still embraces the holiday mood.

16. Christmas Mood Nails

Christmas mood nails are a creative mix of everything that symbolizes the holiday season. Each nail features a different festive element — ornaments, stockings, reindeer, snowflakes, and candy canes — all combined in a cohesive color palette of red, green, gold, and white. This is the perfect design for those who want their nails to tell a holiday story. These nails are fun, expressive, and allow you to showcase your creativity. Ideal for longer nails that provide enough space for detailed designs, this look is both a conversation starter and a festive accessory.

17. December Swirly Nails

Swirly nails are trending, and December swirls come with a holiday flair. Use a base color like nude, light pink, or white and swirl in festive shades like red, emerald green, gold, or silver. The fluid lines and wave patterns give a dynamic and artistic look, mimicking ribbon, tinsel, or candy canes. Add a glitter swirl for extra sparkle. These nails are minimal yet festive, perfect for those who want something different but not overly themed. Great for both everyday wear and special occasions, swirly nails blend art and celebration seamlessly.

18. Long Red December Plaid Nails

Long red plaid nails channel cozy winter flannel vibes. This design features red and black or red and white checkered patterns — just like your favorite holiday pajamas or scarves. You can do full plaid on each nail or use the pattern as an accent on a few fingers. Add gold foil or rhinestones for a luxurious holiday twist. These nails are best on square or coffin shapes to give enough room for the detailed plaid art. Warm, stylish, and oh-so-December, plaid nails are a festive favorite for those chilly winter days.

19. Christmas Mix and Match Nails for December

Christmas mix and match nails are for the bold-hearted who love variety. Each nail has its own design — think candy canes on one, snowflakes on another, ornaments, Santa hats, gifts, and more. It’s like a festive explosion on your fingertips! Use a color palette that includes reds, greens, golds, and whites to keep the set cohesive. This look is perfect for expressing your full holiday spirit and showing off your favorite Christmas symbols. Best suited for longer nails, this playful and eye-catching style is fun, vibrant, and very merry.

20. Red and White December Nail Tips

Red and white nail tips give a subtle nod to the holiday season while keeping your manicure fresh and clean. Think classic French tips, but in festive red and white — maybe even with a candy cane stripe twist. These nails are simple yet effective, perfect for work, school, or casual events where full-on holiday designs might be too bold. The contrast is striking and works well on all nail shapes. Add a small snowflake or dot of glitter for extra December charm without going over the top. It’s an ideal everyday holiday look.

21. Classy Matte Gingerbread Nails

Classy matte gingerbread nails combine holiday sweetness with sophistication. Use a warm beige or caramel matte base to evoke the look of gingerbread, then add subtle white icing designs like dots, squiggles, and tiny snowflakes. You can even add minimalist gingerbread man outlines or hearts. These nails strike a perfect balance between festive and chic, especially for those who prefer a toned-down yet holiday-appropriate manicure. The matte finish gives a soft and elegant feel, ideal for dinners, office events, or gift-shopping days. Pair with neutral-toned winter outfits to complete the cozy look.

22. Flame Effect Heartbreaker December Nail Art

For a bold and edgy twist on December nails, flame effect designs are a fierce choice. Start with a red or maroon base, then add black or silver flame tips that mimic flickering fire — a perfect nod to fireplaces and winter heat. Incorporate tiny heart decals or the word “heartbreaker” in script to give it a cheeky, rebellious holiday vibe. These nails are dramatic and stylish, perfect for someone who loves to stand out in the crowd. They look especially striking on stiletto or coffin-shaped nails and pair beautifully with leather jackets or dark holiday glam outfits.

23. Classic December Nails for Christmas

Classic December nails never go out of style. Think traditional red, green, and gold hues combined in simple yet stunning ways. Whether it’s solid red nails with gold accents, green nails with a touch of sparkle, or white nails with red tips, these designs always feel festive and timeless. Add tiny holly leaves, stars, or snowflakes to enhance the holiday mood. This look works for all ages and occasions and suits every nail length. It’s a great go-to option when you want to keep it classic yet perfectly on theme for Christmas.

24. Red Swirly December Nail Design

Red swirls bring festive energy with a modern flair. Use a clear, nude, or light pink base and swirl in different shades of red — from crimson to cherry. You can also add a touch of gold or white for dimension. These swirls resemble ribbons or candy canes but with a sleek, abstract twist. Perfect for any December gathering, red swirly nails are festive without being overdone. They’re eye-catching, fun, and stylish, and can be customized for both long and short nails. A glossy topcoat will enhance the swirls and make them pop even more.

25. Ugly Holiday Sweater Nails

Inspired by everyone’s favorite December tradition, ugly holiday sweater nails are colorful, playful, and packed with detail. Think classic sweater patterns like reindeer, snowflakes, zigzags, and trees in bold combinations of red, green, white, and blue. Each nail can showcase a different sweater-inspired print for maximum fun. Add glitter or metallic polish for extra cheer. These nails are perfect for themed parties or just for showing off your love of holiday kitsch. Best done on longer nails to give more room for intricate patterns, they’re a must-try for December lovers with a sense of humor and style.

26. ELF Green Holiday Nails

Bring out your inner elf with bright green nails that reflect the playful side of Christmas. Go for a bold kelly green or a shimmering emerald, and add cute elements like elf shoe outlines, striped stockings, or gold bells. You can even use red and white stripes to represent candy canes or elf outfits. These nails are full of personality and are great for holiday parties or Christmas Eve celebrations. They work well on any nail length and really pop when paired with gold rings or red accessories. Fun, festive, and a little mischievous!

27. December Candy Cane Nails

Candy cane nails are an essential holiday treat for your fingertips. Alternate between white and red stripes in swirling patterns, either on every nail or as accents on two or three fingers. You can also add a glitter topcoat for a sugar-crystal effect. This design is playful and recognizable, making it a go-to choice for Christmas morning, baking days, or festive events. These nails look good on all shapes but especially pop on almond or coffin styles. Add peppermint-scented cuticle oil for an extra holiday touch that’s as sweet as the design itself.

28. Glittery December Nail Colors

Sometimes, you don’t need intricate designs — just glitter! December is the perfect excuse to go all-in on sparkle. Choose holiday-inspired shades like gold, silver, red, green, or icy blue. You can cover all nails in glitter or keep it classy with just a glitter gradient or accent finger. This design catches the light beautifully and works for every occasion — from gift exchanges to New Year’s Eve countdowns. Glitter nails are versatile, festive, and instantly boost any outfit. Use a gel topcoat for longer wear and extra shine all month long.

29. 1st of December Gift Nails

Celebrate the beginning of the most magical month with nails that resemble wrapped presents. Paint each nail like a gift box using vibrant colors like red, green, blue, or gold. Add tiny bows, ribbons, or tag designs for detail. These nails are adorable and creative — the kind that spark smiles. They’re a great way to kick off your December manicure rotation and set the tone for the season ahead. Perfect for medium to long nails, these “gift” nails are great conversation starters and a cute way to show your love for the holiday season.

30. It’s All About Swirls

Swirls are a fun and artistic way to bring movement and dimension to your nails. For December, use festive colors like deep red, forest green, white, gold, and icy blue to create flowing swirl patterns across each nail. These abstract designs can resemble tinsel, holiday ribbons, or peppermint twists. Mix and match the swirl colors or keep it monochrome with a metallic finish. This design works on any nail length and shape and pairs well with both cozy winter outfits and sparkly partywear. Swirl nails are trendy, versatile, and perfect for expressing your holiday spirit.

31. Short Red December Nails

Short red December nails are a timeless classic that brings instant holiday charm with zero fuss. Perfect for anyone who prefers practicality without sacrificing style, these nails use bold red shades like cherry, crimson, or berry. You can keep them glossy for a sleek finish or go matte for a modern twist. Add subtle holiday accents like a single snowflake, gold dot, or glittered cuticle for extra flair. This look is ideal for everyday wear during the holiday season and works well with all outfits — from casual winter sweaters to dressy Christmas party ensembles.

32. Cozy Winter Flannels

Channel the cozy warmth of your favorite winter flannel shirts right onto your nails with this charming design. Start with a nude or pale base and layer it with red, green, or navy plaid patterns using thin brushes or nail stickers. You can go full flannel on every nail or make a few accent nails plaid while keeping the rest in coordinating solid shades. These nails pair perfectly with layered outfits, hot chocolate, and fireplace selfies. Ideal for medium to long nails, this comfy-cozy look is winter fashion at its finest — right at your fingertips.

33. Silver Glitter Swirls

Silver glitter swirls add elegance and dazzle to your holiday manicure. Start with a transparent or pastel base and paint swirling lines of silver glitter across each nail. You can go abstract or create more intentional loops and curves. This minimalist yet festive look mimics icy frost, holiday tinsel, or glistening snow trails. It’s perfect for winter weddings, holiday parties, or any celebration that calls for a touch of glamour. The shimmer reflects beautifully under light and complements all nail shapes and skin tones. These nails are graceful, magical, and sparkle with December energy.

34. Walking in a Winter Wonderland

These nails truly capture the enchantment of a snowy December day. Use an icy blue or crisp white base and paint dreamy winter landscapes — snowflakes, pine trees, starry skies, or snowy hills. Add tiny rhinestones or a layer of iridescent glitter for that magical snowfall effect. This design is serene, whimsical, and incredibly detailed, ideal for longer nails that offer enough space for the wintry art. “Walking in a winter wonderland” nails are perfect for those who want a peaceful and picturesque holiday vibe, inspired by nature’s quiet beauty in December.

35. December Snowman Nail Design

Snowman nails are cute, cheerful, and full of personality. Begin with a snowy white base, and draw mini snowmen with black hats, carrot noses, and cozy scarves. You can feature a full snowman on one or two accent nails or scatter small snowman heads across the entire set. Add blue or silver snowflakes in the background for a snowy day effect. These nails bring joy and nostalgia, reminiscent of childhood snowball fights and snowman building. Perfect for shorter nails too, this design adds a playful touch to your December manicure with a dose of frosty fun.

36. December Plaid Nails

Plaid nails are a winter favorite, offering timeless style with holiday flair. Choose color combos like red and black, green and white, or even gold and navy for a modern spin. Use thin lines to create the classic criss-cross pattern, and don’t be afraid to mix with glitter accents or matte finishes for contrast. Plaid works as a full set or as a feature design among solid-colored nails. It’s cozy, cute, and pairs well with your favorite flannel shirt or holiday outfit. This versatile design is a go-to option for December that never goes out of fashion.

37. A Frozen Christmas Vibes Nails

Bring the magic of “Frozen” into your Christmas manicure with icy blue tones, glitter, and snowflake designs. Think Elsa-inspired nails with shimmering icy textures and frosted details. Use a mix of blue gradients, holographic glitter, and delicate snowflake stamps or stickers to create a snowy, dreamy vibe. These nails are perfect for fans of wintry aesthetics and fairy-tale themes. Whether you’re attending a themed party or just love the snow queen look, this design is dazzling and enchanting. Best suited for long nails to showcase the full frozen fantasy, they’re beautiful and bold.

38. Swirly Red Candy Cane December Nails

Combine swirls and stripes with the sweet inspiration of candy canes. These nails blend curved red and white lines into dynamic, candy-like designs that pop with festive cheer. You can make all nails match or add variation with glitter accents or peppermint decals. Swirly candy cane nails are joyful, bold, and absolutely scream Christmas. They suit almond, oval, or coffin shapes and are ideal for people who love attention-grabbing nail art. Pair them with cozy scarves and red lipstick for a full-on holiday glam look. They’re playful, yet polished enough for all December occasions.

39. Festive Nails for December

Festive December nails are a celebration of all things merry and bright. Think reds, greens, golds, silvers, and winter whites, brought together with cheerful symbols like stars, gifts, wreaths, or tree ornaments. You can mix textures like matte, glossy, and glitter finishes for added interest. Every nail can tell a different story or follow a central festive theme. These nails are great for the whole month and look amazing in photos — whether you’re decorating the tree or sipping cocoa by the fire. Festive nails are fun, expressive, and make your hands part of the holiday magic.

40. Blue Glitter French Tip Nails

Add an icy twist to the classic French manicure with blue glitter tips. Start with a nude or sheer base and apply bright or deep blue glitter polish just on the tips. For extra sparkle, blend the glitter into the nail for a gradient effect. These nails are perfect for winter events, holiday parties, or even ringing in the New Year with style. Blue glitter French tips feel modern, fresh, and frosty — ideal for those who want to break from the traditional red-and-green palette while still embracing the season’s cool tones.

41. Santa Claus Hat Nails for December

Santa Claus hat nails are a festive and playful way to bring Father Christmas to your fingertips. Begin with a classic red base and add white, fluffy-looking tips to resemble the brim of Santa’s hat. Top it off with a tiny white dot on the corner for the pom-pom. This design is super cute and recognizable, making it a hit at holiday parties or family gatherings. You can feature the hat design on accent nails while keeping the others red or glittery for variety. Great on short to medium nails, Santa hat nails are cheerful, jolly, and full of December spirit.

42. It’s Candy Cane Season

Candy cane nails are the sweetest trend for the season. Use alternating red and white stripes, or swirl them diagonally across each nail for a candy-cane effect. You can go bold with glossy finishes or keep it soft with a matte look. Add glitter or mini peppermint decals for extra flair. These nails work well as a full set or as an accent with solid red or white nails. Fun, festive, and totally Instagram-worthy, candy cane nails are perfect for cookie exchanges, Christmas markets, and any occasion that celebrates holiday joy.

43. Long Almond Blue December Nail Art

Long almond nails provide the perfect canvas for dreamy blue December designs. Start with frosty shades like baby blue, icy teal, or midnight navy, and layer in white snowflakes, glitter gradients, or delicate line art. This style exudes elegance and winter magic, especially when paired with shimmery finishes or chrome accents. These nails are ideal for formal December events like office parties or winter weddings. Long almond shapes elongate the fingers and add a touch of glam, making this a sophisticated choice for those who want a polished, wintry vibe.

44. Flashback December Nail Designs

Flashback December nail designs blend vintage and retro holiday themes into one nostalgic manicure. Think old-school Christmas lights, cartoonish Santa faces, and classic ornaments painted in bold, slightly muted colors. Use a cream or pale background with bright reds, greens, yellows, and blues to recreate that throwback feel. These designs are fun, funky, and full of charm — a great choice for creative types who love quirky, detailed nail art. Flashback nails are a conversation starter and a celebration of holiday memories from the past. They’re unique, stylish, and full of personality.

45. Cute Grey Based Gingerbread Holiday Nails

Grey might not be a traditional holiday color, but it serves as a stunning neutral base for gingerbread-themed nails. Use soft grey polish as your background and decorate with warm brown gingerbread men, white icing outlines, and pops of red or green. The contrast is beautiful and gives a cozy, modern look to your December manicure. Add tiny heart or candy details to enhance the sweet vibe. This nail design is perfect for those who like a muted palette but still want to embrace the festive spirit. Chic and charming, it’s great for both casual and dressy looks.

46. Blue Snowflake Prints

Blue snowflake print nails are a winter classic that never fails to impress. Use various shades of blue — from icy baby blue to deep sapphire — as your base and layer on intricate white snowflake patterns. You can paint the snowflakes yourself or use decals for a perfect finish. These nails resemble frosty windows and snowy skies, bringing the essence of winter right to your hands. Ideal for all nail lengths and shapes, this design is both elegant and seasonal. Pair them with silver rings or cozy mittens for the ultimate December aesthetic.

47. Glittery Blue December Nails for Christmas

For a stunning twist on holiday glam, glittery blue nails make a bold statement. Use a deep royal or electric blue as your base, and cover it in fine or chunky glitter for maximum sparkle. You can opt for a uniform glitter look or create ombre glitter fades from cuticle to tip. These nails reflect light beautifully and are perfect for festive nights out, especially around Christmas or New Year’s Eve. Blue symbolizes calm and winter, and when combined with glitter, it turns into a celebration on your fingertips. A must-try for those who want something bold yet winter-themed.

Conclusion

December is the perfect month to have fun with your nail designs, whether you’re going for a bold holiday look or a subtle winter vibe. From classic red swirls and candy cane stripes to whimsical snowmen and elegant glitter tips, there’s a design to match every mood, event, and outfit of the season. Whether you prefer short and simple nails or long and detailed artwork, these 47 insanely cute December nails will keep your manicure festive, stylish, and totally Instagram-worthy. So grab your favorite polish, get inspired, and let your nails celebrate the holiday cheer — because there’s no better time to sparkle than December!