Red Holiday Nails 2025 – 2025: Festive Inspiration for Every Style 22 Ideas

Red nails have always been a holiday favorite, and for 2025-2025 they are more stylish than ever. From rich Christmas colors to modern chrome and glitter accents, there’s a design for every festive occasion. Here are the best holiday red nail ideas to inspire your next manicure.

Festive burgundy shine

This deep burgundy design is a luxurious and timeless choice for the holidays. The color evokes warmth and sophistication, perfect for winter evenings. The glossy finish gives a polished look, ideal for formal events or social gatherings. The minimalist approach focuses on the richness of the Polish tones, without overwhelming the design with additional accents.

Consumables:

• Opi polish in “Malaga Wine” for that deep, rich burgundy red.
• Essie glossy topcoat for long-lasting shine.
• Nail buffer and file to smooth nails before applying base coat.
• CND base coat to protect the natural nails and ensure a long life of the nail polish.

How to achieve this at home:

1. File and shape your nails into a natural almond or oval shape.
2. Apply a base coat to protect your nails and create a smooth foundation.
3. Apply two coats of Opi “Malaga Wine” for deep, even coverage.
4. Finish with a gloss top coat to improve shine and durability.

Christmas-inspired red

For those who want to embrace the festive spirit, this red design features a beautiful Christmas color palette. The bold red, paired with delicate snowflake accents, embodies the essence of holiday celebrations. The mix of shiny red and subtle holiday elements provides the perfect inspiration for Christmas gatherings and winter parties.

Consumables:

• Opi “Big Apple Red” for the base color.
• White nail polish for the snowflake details.
• Essie top coat for extra shine.
• Fine tip nail art brush to create intricate snowflake designs.

How to achieve this at home:

1. Start by applying a base coat to protect your natural nails.
2. Apply two coats of Opi “Big Apple Red” to achieve a strong, even color.
3. Use a fine-tipped brush to draw snowflake designs with white paint.
4. Seal the design with a glossy top coat to secure the design and prevent chipping.

Tight red almond nails

Red nails have always been a holiday favorite, and for 2025 – 2025.

Consumables:

• Opi polish in “Cajun Shrimp” for the perfect red shade.
• CND top coat to improve gloss and keep paint intact.
• Nail file to shape the nails into a tight almond shape.
• Cuticle oil to maintain healthy looking nails.

How to achieve this at home:

1. File the nails in an almond shape, following the natural curve of your fingertips.
2. Apply a base coat for protection and a smooth application.
3. Paint two coats of Opi “Cajun Shrimp” for a striking red effect.
4. Finish with a glossy top coat to give your nails a sleek, professional finish.

Classic red square nails

For lovers of classic and striking designs, this square red nail is the perfect option. The vibrant red paint is bold and bright, making it ideal for any festive occasion, from Christmas dinners to New Year’s celebrations. The square shape puts a modern twist on traditional red nails and gives a fresh and sleek look.

Consumables:

• Opi “Red Hot Rio” for a classic red.
• Nail buffer for smoothing the nail surface.
• Essie top coat for high shine and long lasting wear.
• Nail clippers and file to shape the nails into a perfect square.

How to achieve this at home:

1. Shape the nails into a square using a file and clippers.
2. Polish the surface of the nails to ensure a smooth base for the nail polish.
3. Apply two coats of Opi “Red Hot Rio” for a vibrant finish.
4. Seal the color with a high-gloss top coat to protect against flaking.

Holiday themed nail art

This fun and festive design features classic Christmas colors with intricate details. Red is combined with silver and green accents to create a cheerful holiday theme. Each nail features its unique Christmas art, making this design perfect for those who love creativity and detail in their manicures.

Consumables:

• Opi “Big Apple Red” for the base.
• Silver and green nail art polishes for the details.
• Small jewels and glitter for extra sparkle.
• Essie quick-drying top coat to protect the design.

How to achieve this at home:

1. Start with a base coat to protect your nails.
2. Use Opi “Big Apple Red” as the base color.
3. Use a fine-tipped brush to add silver and green details and create holiday-themed designs such as holly leaves and ornaments.
4. Add small jewels or glitter for extra shine and finish with a quick-drying top coat to complete the look.

Playful red and holiday messages

This playful nail design combines vibrant red nails with fun holiday-themed text. The accent nails feature messages such as ‘Merry Christmas’ on a soft, nude base, creating a festive yet understated look. The silver glitter adds a subtle sparkle, making this design perfect for someone who wants to incorporate the holiday spirit in a modern and creative way.

Consumables:

• Opi “Big Apple Red” for the main color.
• Nude polish for accent nails, such as Essie ‘Ballet Slippers’.
• Thin brush to write text on the nails.
• Silver glitter polish for a touch of sparkle.

How to achieve this at home:

1. Start by applying a base coat and painting the majority of your nails with Opi “Big Apple Red.”
2. For the accent nails, apply two coats of Essie “Ballet Slippers” and allow to dry completely.
3. Use a thin brush and black nail polish to write your Christmas messages on the accent nails.
4. Apply silver glitter polish to the base or edges of the accent nails for a festive shine, then seal with a top coat.

Deep Burgundian elegance

This rich burgundy manicure exudes elegance and sophistication. The deep, wine-like hue is perfect for winter festivities and adds a touch of class to any holiday outfit. This sleek design is all about simplicity, with a high-gloss finish that emphasizes the depth of the color. It’s perfect for those who prefer a classic, understated look for the holidays.

Consumables:

• Opi “Malaga Wine” for the perfect burgundy shade.
• High-gloss top coat for a mirror-like shine.
• Nail file for shaping the nails into a beautiful oval.

How to achieve this at home:

1. Start by filing your nails into a natural oval shape.
2. Apply a base coat to protect your nails and ensure longevity.
3. Paint two coats of Opi “Malaga Wine” for that deep burgundy richness.
4. Finish with a high-gloss top coat to bring out the shine and seal in the color.

Glamorous red French tips

A glamorous twist on the classic French tip, this design features red glitter on almond-shaped nails, adorned with tiny rhinestones. The base is kept nude to draw attention to the vibrant red points, while the rhinestones add a touch of glamour, making it a perfect choice for holiday parties or New Year’s Eve.

Consumables:

• Red glitter polish for the tips, such as Sally Hansen “Red Carpet.”
• Clear rhinestones for extra shine.
• Nude base coat, such as Essie “Mademoiselle.”
• Nail glue for attaching rhinestones.

How to achieve this at home:

1. Shape your nails into an almond shape with a file.
2. Apply a nude base coat to all nails.
3. Use a nail guide to create clean, bright red tips using Sally Hansen “Red Carpet.”
4. Attach rhinestones to the bottom of the nails with nail glue and finish with a top coat to keep everything in place.

Holiday stripes and peppermint swirls

The features of this whimsical holiday design are a combination of green and red stripes, with snowflake accents and peppermint swirls. The alternating stripes and bright red hues are reminiscent of Christmas candies and decorations, making this a fun, festive look for those who love intricate nail art.

Consumables:

• Opi “Big Apple Red” for the red stripes.
• Green lacquer such as China Glaze “Emerald Sparkle” for the green accents.
• Thin brush for stripe details.
• White polish for the snowflakes and peppermint swirls.

How to achieve this at home:

1. Start with a clear or nude base.
2. Use a thin brush to alternate red and green stripes on each nail.
3. Add peppermint swirls or snowflakes with white paint using a fine brush for intricate details.
4. Seal the design with a top coat to protect the artwork and add shine.

Classic red square nails

These classic red square nails have a timeless look and are perfect for any holiday occasion. The shape is sleek and modern, while the bright red paint appeals to the holidays. This design is ideal for someone looking for a simple yet powerful manicure for Christmas and New Year celebrations.

Consumables:

• Choose “Big Apple Red” for a classic red finish.
• Nail file to obtain a square shape.
• High gloss top coat for a glossy finish.

How to achieve this at home:

1. Shape your nails into a square with a nail file.
2. Apply two coats of Opi “Big Apple Red” for a vibrant, rich color.
3. Finish with a high gloss top coat to enhance the look and make it last.

Festive red and white stripes

This design features a striking combination of red glitter, candy cane stripes, and a classic snowflake accent. The almond-shaped nails are perfect for the holidays and combine festive Christmas colors with intricate details. The glitter and red polish make this a striking manicure for any Christmas party.

Consumables:

• Opi “Big Apple Red” for the solid red parts.
• Red glitter polish, such as China Glaze “Ruby Pumps.”
• White polish for the snowflake and stripes, such as Essie ‘Blanc’.
• Fine nail art brush for precision in detailing.

How to achieve this at home:

1. Shape your nails into almond shapes with a file.
2. Paint the red glitter and plain red nails with Opi and China Glaze polishes.
3. Use a fine brush to create the candy cane stripes and snowflake details with white paint.
4. Finish with a glossy top coat to protect the design.

Tight red almond nails

This bold, sleek red design highlights long almond nails covered in a flawless, high-shine finish. The vibrant red paint makes a powerful statement, suitable for those who love a sleek yet powerful look for the holidays. This design works beautifully for both Christmas and New Year celebrations.

Consumables:

• Opi “I’m not really a waitress” for the perfect shade of red.
• High-gloss top layer for extra shine and durability.
• Nail file to shape the nails into a sharp almond shape.

How to achieve this at home:

1. Shape your nails into almonds with a nail file.
2. Apply a base coat to protect your nails, followed by two coats of Opi polish for a rich, deep red.
3. Finish with a high-gloss top coat for a sleek and durable appearance.

Classic burgundy square nails

This burgundy nail design features square nails with a polished shine, perfect for those looking for a more subtle holiday look. The deep burgundy red lacquer is elegant and versatile, suitable for both festive occasions and everyday use.

Consumables:

• Opi “Malaga Wine” for a rich burgundy aftertaste.
• Essie top coat for shine and protection.
• Nail file to square the nails.

How to achieve this at home:

1. Use a file to create a square shape for the nails.
2. Apply a base coat, followed by two coats of Opi “Malaga Wine.”
3. Seal with a high-gloss top coat for long-lasting wear.

Simple and classic red short nails

These short red nails showcase a vibrant red polish with a simple yet elegant finish. The design is ideal for those who prefer a minimalist look yet embrace the festive Christmas colours. Short nails are practical and chic, making them perfect for everyday wear during the holidays.

Consumables:

• Opi “Cajun Shrimp” because of its bright red color.
• CND top coat to ensure shine and durability.
• Nail file and buffer to smooth the nail surface.

How to achieve this at home:

1. Shape your nails and polish them to create a smooth surface.
2. Apply two coats of Opi “Cajun Shrimp” for full coverage.
3. Finish with a top coat to add shine and protect your nails.

Matte red coffin nails

For a modern twist on the classic red manicure, these matte red coffin nails give a striking, high-fashion look this holiday season. The matte finish gives the nails a sophisticated edge while still embracing the festive atmosphere with the vibrant red hue.

Consumables:

• Opi “Red Hot Rio” for the base color.
• Matte top coat for a smooth, velvety finish.
• Nail file to shape the coffin style nails.

How to achieve this at home:

1. Shape your nails into a coffin shape with a file.
2. Apply two coats of Opi “Red Hot Rio” for the bright red color.
3. Finish with a matte top coat for a unique, velvety look.

Classic burgundy short nails

These short, square nails have a glossy, deep burgundy color, creating an elegant yet understated look. Perfect for any holiday occasion, this manicure combines simplicity with sophistication, ideal for both formal and informal occasions. The shorter length keeps it practical and maintains a polished look.

Consumables:

• Opi “Malaga Wine” because of its rich burgundy color.
• Essie top coat for a high gloss finish.
• Nail file to square the nails.

How to achieve this at home:

1. Shape your nails into a nice square with a file.
2. Apply two coats of Opi “Malaga Wine” to create a strong and even color.
3. Finish with a glossy top coat for a long-lasting shine.

Elegant Burgundian French tips

This look combines classic nude nails with a modern twist, featuring burgundy French tips. The almond-shaped nails provide a subtle extension of the fingers, while the deep burgundy color provides a festive touch. This design is perfect for those looking for an elegant, understated holiday manicure with a little flair.

Consumables:

• Nude base coat, such as Essie “Mademoiselle.”
• Opi “Malaga Wine” for the burgundy French tips.
• Fine nail art brush for precise application of the French tip.

How to achieve this at home:

1. Shape your nails into almond style with a file.
2. Apply two coats of nude polish as a base.
3. Use a fine brush to create beautiful, burgundy French tips.
4. Finish the design with a glossy top coat.

Geometric red art

This striking design features long red nails with striking geometric accents in silver. The sharp almond shape emphasizes the modern look, while the silver lines add a chic and stylish touch. This manicure is perfect for someone who wants to make a statement during the holidays.

Consumables:

• Opi “Big Apple Red” for the base color.
• Silver nail art pen or thin brush for geometric details.
• CND top coat for a sleek finish.

How to achieve this at home:

1. Shape your nails into an almond shape.
2. Apply two coats of Opi “Big Apple Red”.
3. Use a silver nail art pen to create geometric lines and accents.
4. Finish with a top coat to protect your design.

Glossy red with 3D accents

This playful and creative design combines glossy red nails with pink accents and 3D elements, making for a unique and fun manicure. The use of different textures gives it a modern touch, perfect for anyone who wants to try something outside the usual holiday nail designs.

Consumables:

• Opi “Big Apple Red” for the red base.
• Pink nail polish for accent nails, such as Essie ‘Fiji’.
• 3D gel for the raised details.

How to achieve this at home:

1. Apply Opi “Big Apple Red” to most nails, leaving an accent nail for the pink polish.
2. Use a 3D gel to create raised details on the nails, creating a dimensional effect.
3. Finish with a glossy top coat to protect the design.

Glittery red glamour

For a glamorous holiday look, this design features striking red glitter nails with 3D sculpted details. The glitter base adds sparkle, while the raised designs give the manicure a luxurious, festive look. This is perfect for someone who likes to add some extra drama to their holiday nails.

Consumables:

• Red glitter polish, such as China Glaze “Ruby Pumps.”
• 3D sculpting gel for the relief designs.
• CND topcoat for long-lasting shine.

How to achieve this at home:

1. Apply red glitter polish to all nails for a sparkling base.
2. Use 3D sculpting gel to create raised designs on the nails.
3. Finish with a glossy top coat to protect the look.

Abstract red and naked nails

This design features a combination of red and nude with delicate gold accents, creating an abstract and artistic holiday look. The design features swirls of red, white and gold for a creative and stylish twist, making this manicure perfect for those who want something different this season.

Consumables:

• Opi “Big Apple Red” for the red portions.
• White paint for the accent swirls.
• Gold glitter polish for the details.

How to achieve this at home:

1. Paint your nails with Opi “Big Apple Red” as the main color.
2. Use a fine brush to create abstract swirls of white and gold on accent nails.
3. Seal with a top coat to protect the design and add shine.

Marble red and white design

This unique design combines a red and white marble effect with striking red accents. The combination of colors creates a soft, blended look, while the glossy finish keeps things polished and clean. This is perfect for someone who wants to combine classic holiday colors in a fresh, modern way.

Consumables:

• Opi “Big Apple Red” for the red accents.
• White lacquer for the marble effect.
• Thin brush for blending the marble details.

How to achieve this at home:

1. Apply Opi “Big Apple Red” to the accent nails.
2. Create the marble effect by mixing red and white lacquer with a fine brush.
3. Finish with a top coat to seal the design and ensure a glossy finish.