12 Winter White Manicures to Try Right Now

It’s official: winter has finally arrived. In New York, we’ve even gotten our first taste of snow, which has us thinking of just one thing: winter white manicures. The season may just be starting, but that doesn’t mean that our mood boards aren’t already loaded with inspiration. Like black, nude and red polishes, white feels classic and sophisticated. You can certainly wear the shade year-round, but when the temperatures drop, it becomes a seasonal look that’s extra alluring. Even better? There are tons of ways to wear white, and you can even layer shades to create a crisp tonal manicure. Regardless of what you choose, it’s sure to enchant. Ahead, 12 winter white manicures to inspire your next nail appointment.

Winter White Nail Looks to Try This Season

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Crocodile French Tips

When you want a bold look, crocodile French tips are the design for the job. They create the illusion of texture, and when created with white polishes, they have a delightfully frosty look.

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Polka Dots

This polka dot design may be one of the chicest. The simple technique is done with precision and gives the effect of sheer patterned fabric. The result is absolutely stunning.

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Silver Stars

While white nails work well with a range of colors, silver is one of the most seasonal. The pairing instantly evokes icy vibes and complements each other nicely thanks to cool undertones. Take a cue from this manicure and opt for a simple design to make your nails stand out.

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White Chocolate Dipped Almonds

Looking for a unique way to upgrade your French manicure? With this almond nail look, you can get the same effect the classic French tip delivers with a stylish wintery touch.

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Reverse French Manicure

We love a French cuff in any color. However, this white set is elite. With contrasting finishes, it leans into the monochromatic look and has an effortless appearance—think the first snowfall of the season.

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3D Design

If you’re new to 3D nail art or any form of textured manicures, using white as a backdrop is a good place to start. This manicure is the perfect balance between clean and eccentric and is the true definition of nail art.

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Milky White

While optic and opaque shades are nice, a milky white manicure feels soft and much more approachable. Plus, it looks great on shorter nails when finished with a glossy topcoat.

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Artsy Patterns

Snowflake nails are trending for the holiday, but this look takes a more artistic approach. Instead of traditional flurries, it has delicate designs that rival the unique patterns of individual snowflakes.

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Wavy Design

This cool, artsy design is perfect for French manicure devotees. It features the signature white and nude shades with a wavy pattern and a striking gold outline.

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White on White French Manicure

White is a staple French manicure shade, but when doubled down to create a white-on-white design, the color really shines. To nail this look, be sure to use polishes that are close in color and finish.

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Contemporary Design

Few colors work as well for contemporary designs as white does. The clean nature of the hue makes the simple swirls of this set feel like a work of art.

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Mixed Manicure

For a truly wintery look, opt for a mixed manicure with cozy elements and frosty designs.