15 Holiday Nail Polishes That Aren’t Red

Yes Virginia, it is possible to have festive nails without resorting to predictable red. For editorial manicurist Madeline Poole, the best alternative is anything that glitters. “Try a slight sheer sparkle or shimmer,” she says. Poole—who is Global Colour Ambassador of Sally Hansen—suggests a festive silver option from the brand called ‘Make it N-ice’. “It can be barely visible or more heavy-handed depending on how many coats you apply,” she says.

And while sparkly nails are pretty much synonymous with the holidays, Poole definitely has her preferences. “Personally, I like all one-colour glitters and I like the flecks to be pretty big and circular.” These larger, sequin-like bits can add a cool and modern edge, differentiating your manicure from the norm. When it comes to achieving the look, we also like the shade ‘Glass Souls’ from Smith & Cult.

For something a little more subdued, Poole recommends adding a clear matte topcoat to any glitter or metallic polish for a velvety finish. But sparkle or not, there are tons of options among this season’s holiday offerings. From an icy blue that’s the perfect combo of subtle and statement, to a forest green shimmer that gives off a purple and navy duo-chrome, check out our 15 favourite polishes for party season below.

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15 Festive Polishes

Mash
($27, Nars)

We love how unique this shade is, mixing deep army greens with olive-toned golds.

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