The Best Nail Colors for January

With November well underway and the holidays creeping up on us with every passing moment, there’s one undeniable truth we have to face——love it or dread it: the new year is almost here. 2024 has been a whirlwind and 2025 promises to be just as eventful. So why not get a jump on your New Year’s look by starting with one thing you can totally control: your nails. Ahead, we’ve rounded up the best nail colors for January, according to the experts at Nailing Hollywood.

The 9 Best Nail Shades for January

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Velvet Sapphire

Cat-eye nails aren’t losing steam anytime soon and if you want to beat the winter blues, try channeling that blue into your mani with a “velvet sapphire” manicure, like this style by Nailing Hollywood’s Rachel Joseph.

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Pastel Blue

Blue shades are guaranteed to be all the rage come the new year, according to our Nailing Hollywood experts and this pastel blue shade by Joseph gives the ultimate ice queen vibes.

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Vanilla Chai

One of the latest nail trends comes in the form of a delicious year-round beverage: the vanilla chai. If you want to bring that homey energy into your January manicure, vanilla chai shades like this set by Priscila Rivas are the perfect way to go.

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Black and Gray

Whether you’re planning on entering your Reputation era in the new year or just want a nail style that is versatile and minimalist, black and gray nails are another great option for your January manicure, like this negative space set by Hang Nguyen.

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Matte Black

Another moody, sophisticated color option for your January manicure, Nailing Hollywood artists like Tara Haye predict that matte black nails will be a huge trend come the new year.

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Black Cherry

Black cherry red nails are a surefire way to keep your nails simple but on trend all winter long and this set by Haye is a great example of how these cherry cola nails are sophisticated and timeless.

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Metallic Accents

If you gravitate more towards nail art for your manicures, you’ll want to consider metallic accent nails for your January set. This style by Morgan A. Dixon shows how metallic accents are the perfect addition to a simple nude base for an understated yet eye-catching design.

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Forest Green

A personal favorite shade of mine year-round, Nailing Hollywood’s experts predict that forest green will continue to be a fan favorite in the new year. As shown in this set by Nguyen, the shade pairs perfectly with a short square shape.

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Chocolate Brown

Chocolate brown nails are always in style and perfect for your January manicure. This style by Nguyen showcases milk and dark chocolate hues for a warm, delicious style.