Party season is creeping up on us, and if you’re the type who plans your nails before you’ve even picked an outfit (no judgement, we do the same), you’re in the right place. Between work dos, family get-togethers and New Year’s Eve, December is basically one long excuse to have your nails looking their absolute best, and this year’s trends give you plenty to work with.
We’ve pulled together what’s actually going to be everywhere this Christmas, plus everything you need to know about when to book so you’re not scrambling for an appointment in mid-December.
Cat-eye is still queen
Cat-eye nails have been huge all year, and they’re not going anywhere for party season. That shimmery, magnetic gel effect looks incredible as a full colour, works beautifully as an on-trend twist on classic French tips, and gives you glam without going full glitter. If you want something that photographs well under fairy lights and disco balls alike, this is it.
It’s also a brilliant option if you want something that still looks polished after a few weeks. Because it’s gel-based, it holds its shine and colour depth right through the busiest part of party season, so you’re not touching up your nails between every event.
Bigger, bolder shapes
Even if you’re usually a short and round kind of person, Christmas has a way of bringing out your inner main character. We’re seeing loads of clients switch things up for party season with longer, more dramatic shapes like almond, coffin and stiletto. It’s a fun way to feel a bit different for one night (or the whole of December) without committing to anything permanent.
If you’re not sure a dramatic shape is for you, you don’t have to go all in. A slightly longer almond shape than you’d normally wear is often enough to feel special without it getting in the way of everyday life, wrapping presents, typing, all of it. Your nail tech can talk you through what’ll actually work with your natural nail length and lifestyle before you commit to anything.
Proper festive nail art
Snowflakes, candy cane stripes, delicate bows, a bit of sparkle where it counts. Festive nail art is all about intricate, considered detail rather than going overboard. Think one accent nail with a design rather than ten nails fighting for attention. It’s the easiest way to make your set feel Christmassy without looking like you raided the tinsel drawer.
This is also where colour comes in. Classic red and gold are always going to work for Christmas, but we’re seeing a lot of clients lean into deep greens, plums and chrome finishes too, especially paired with a single festive accent nail. If you want something a bit different from the usual red-and-glitter combo, this is a lovely way to do it.
When to book
Party season is notoriously the busiest time of year for nail techs, and honestly, we tighten up our booking and cancellation policies for exactly this reason. If you’ve got a work do, a Christmas party or New Year’s Eve plans already in the diary, the earlier you book, the better your pick of appointment times. Last-minute December slots go fast.
Bettina works her magic with acrylics and builder gel if you want something with real staying power through party season, and the whole team can talk you through which shape and finish will suit your plans best.
Your Christmas nail questions, answered
How long before my party should I book? For gel, aim for two to three days beforehand so it’s fully cured and settled before you’re clinking champagne glasses. For acrylics or builder gel, book a week or so ahead if you want time for a top-up should anything need tweaking.
Will gel nails survive a night out? Yes, easily. Gel is designed to handle exactly this: dancing, hand shaking, present wrapping, the lot. It’s far more durable than regular polish and won’t chip the way a normal manicure might after one glass of prosecco too many.
Can I still get festive nail art if I’ve never had it before? Absolutely. You don’t need to be a nail art regular to try a bit of festive detail. Start small with one accent nail and build up from there if you love it.
What if I want my nails to last through several parties? Gel and builder gel both hold up well over multiple weeks, so it’s worth thinking about your whole December calendar rather than just one event when you book, so we can pick a finish that’ll go the distance.
If you’re coming to our Glow Together Christmas Party on 17 November, this is exactly the kind of look that’ll carry you through the evening, from the networking and exhibitors right through to the DJ and after-party.
Ready to get your Christmas nails booked in? Head to our Fresha booking page and grab your slot before the party season rush.