I’m picky about a lot of things, and nail designs are at the top of that list right now—especially as we approach the season when freezing temperatures take a toll on our fingers, nails, and cuticles. I can’t fathom making things worse with a bad manicure . Sure, my hands will spend a lot of time in my pockets and wrapped in (hopefully) luxe, comfy gloves. But when they’re out, they’re highly visible: passing the plate of mash to your cousin at Thanksgiving , cradling a cranberry spritz at a holiday party , or raising a champagne flute on New Year’s Eve. That in mind, I won't settle for anything less than an eye-catching, compliment-inducing winter manicure .

Thankfully, the internet and just about every nail artist I know agree with me. Winter 2027 nail trends follow this motto: “the glitzier, the better,” says Signourney Nuñez , a nail artist based in Los Angeles. U.K.-based nail artist Lizzie Trow says her clients have moved past traditional festive motifs like candy-cane stripes and bows.…