With December here, many of us have begun our Christmas shopping, and our social calendars are filling up for party season. Which begs the question: what are we doing with our nails over the festive period? Amongst the winter nail colours and winter nail trends, red nail polish always looks chic for any time of the year. However, dark red Christmas nails look particularly chic in December. A deep red shade that resembles a glass of mulled wine works just as well as a party nail design without being as obvious as glitter nails. And if you're booking a gel manicure, it's a safe bet that will see you through the festive season.
Ready for some dark red Christmas nail ideas? I've saved plenty of inspiration below and shared the very best dark red nail polishes to get the look at home if you're taking the DIY route.
Dark Red Christmas Nails Inspiration
Short nails lend themselves well to dark red.
A dark reddish-brown polish is perfect for achieving a shade that resembles mulled wine.
For an ultra-luxe finish, apply a glossy topcoat to give your nails an expensive lacquer.
I'll be wearing Chanel Le Vernis in Rouge Noir throughout the festive season—it's the perfect timeless dark red nail polish.
Why not go for some chic Christmas nail art in a dark red shade, such as this Bordeaux French tip?
Keeping your cuticles in great condition is key to making this nail colour look expensive.
A berry-toned red nail polish also works well if you don't want to go too dark.
Want a super-subtle touch of nail art? Dark red nail polish pairs so well with a gold glitter French tip.
This deep mulled wine nail colour whispers luxury.
Dark red looks elegant on long nails too; particularly on almond or oval-shaped nails.
Dark red makes a real statement on longer, stiletto-shaped nails.
These dark ruby red nails have the subtlest of sparkles running through them.
This moody hue is so rich, you'd be forgiven for mistaking it for black in low lights.
How elegant are these dark red almonds?
The Best Dark Red Nail Polishes
When I quiz nail techs on their favourite dark red nail polish, they always mention OPI Malaga Wine, which was practically made for the mulled wine nail trend.
A timeless nail colour that will see you through party season and beyond. One coat gives a black-cherry look, whilst two gives a glass of mulled wine.
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A great shade with an impressive chip-free formula that lasts and lasts.
Need a nail polish to go with your party outfit? Manicurist has you covered.
Another luxe option is Dior's Vernis in 047 Nuit 1947. This would look amazing on short, square nails.
Essie has its own wine inspired nail shade too.
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