6 New Year's Nail Colors That Are Far From Basic (No Glitter Required)

New Year's Eve tends to sell a certain color story: black, gold, silver, and loads of sparkle. And when it comes to nail colors, prepare for glitter galore. We're talking foils, glitzy decals, disco tips, velvet lacquer...you get the idea. If your tips resemble a glitter-soaked dance floor, you're doing something right.

But for all my minimalists out there—or those who simply prefer to stand out among the glittery crowd—a sparkly shade isn't your only option for a festive New Year's mani. Below, experts offer their favorite (and beautifully unexpected) polish choices for the holiday.

We know, we promised no glitters on this list—but silvers and golds tend to appear much more subtle than full-on sparkle. Chrome nails certainly aren't going anywhere, and with these metallic shades, you'll glimmer like a frosted glass of Champagne, not the New Year's décor.

"Midnight blues are definitely having a moment," says Nadine Abramcyk, co-founder and head of the brand of clean salon Tenoverten. A classic black mani will always remain on-trend, but "there's something a bit daring swapping it out for a deep blue," she adds.

Finally, you can never go wrong with a festive red. It's a classic pick for the holidays, as you can make a statement without too much effort (that's also why folks tend to rely on a red lip this time of year). "I think across many cultures, red has been associated with love, joy, and passion," Lin adds. "With an event like New Year's, you feel hopeful and excited to celebrate the arrival of a whole new year. It is a great color to show excitement and joy."

If you prefer to gloss your tips in glitter, please, go right ahead! But that's not the only way to lean in to the festive beauty looks this year. In fact, some underrated nail colors make an even bigger statement than sparkly lacquer—we expect they'll stay trending all winter long.

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