The beginning of a new year often has us all feeling like starting off fresh by taking on better habits, getting rid of old ones, and—most commonly—changing up our look. A fresh mani in one of these nail colors for January is the easiest way to do just that.
While others are hitting the squats and going into the salon for a pixie cut, why not start slow and steady with a cozy winter manicure in a color that feels new to you? It takes only a little courage to step outside your usual OPI Lincoln Park After Dark or Essie Ballet Slippers, which is all you need to kick your year off on a fanciful foot.
From new wintry takes on classic dark nail colors to unique pops of color that’ll have you feeling the opposite of boring, these are the best nail colors to try this January and tick off all the way into spring.
Olive & June
This blue-gray is destined to be a stand-out in your nail polish lineup. It’s a low-key way to add color to your winter look that won’t take over your outfit.
OPI
Bubble Bath’s pigment, or lack thereof, is found to be incredibly comforting for neutral lovers. Even the barely-there shade of pink can look totally chic.
Olive and June
Bring on the not-your-typical dark nail colors, starting with this smooth chocolate brown that will feel sumptuous no matter what you’re wearing.
Amazon
This moody gray is just the deep neutral your nails need to go with your favorite winter wardrobe pieces.
Amazon
A deep, inky blue has more intrigue than your go-to black or burgundy for cold weather.
Target
Winter white is getting a stylish update this year in the form of this cool gray-white that will never be mistaken as a Funny Bunny-style summer white.
Amazon
We never thought we’d swoon over gray nail polish, but this one has a whole lot of soul. It’s got green and blue undertones that help it look way more exciting than cement gray.
Amazon
This creamy taupe brown is as cozy as your favorite sweater—and will look great with it, too! Neutral lovers need to snag this color immediately.
Amazon
Nothing like a smoky army green to start the next twelve months off with a bang. This one from OPI’s Scotland Collection is a forever favorite.
Amazon
A more full-bodied version of dusty rose, this not-too-pink nail color goes on with a super creamy finish.
Olive and June
If you want to save money in the new year, start off with an affordable nail polish shade you’ll use to the last drop. This is the ultimate neutral that complements any skin tone.
Amazon
This soothing shade is from OPI’s Nature Strong line, which is made with plant-based ingredients sourced from nature. Add a little shimmer to dreary January with a rose gold polish that shines.
Make sure 2024 knows you’re coming in confident with a creamy burgundy red that’s packed with personality.
Amazon
Winter is always a big time for jewel tones, but instead of your usual ruby red, why not go with a dreamy dark teal?
Target
This light mauve is soft but makes a bigger statement than most neutrals.
