Yes, Party Nails Can Look Elegant and Chic—53 Festive Designs That Nail the Brief
The party season is in full swing, and we are here for it. Nail art really comes into style this time of the year. With festivities to celebrate and parties to attend, we're keeping tabs on the party nail designs and trends that the fashion set are booking in for at salons. And trust me, after scouring through Instagram, there is plenty of nail inspiration to be had.
Whether you prefer a minimalist party nail design or like to go all out with glitter nails, there's something for everyone. Personally, I'm drawn to the gold nail embellishments this season, and the top nail technicians are showing us innovative ways to get creative with crystals, chrome and foils. Because if you can't add a little sparkle to your nails at this time of the year, when else can you? That being said, I'm also loving the timeless winter nail colours which will see you through the entire season—day or night.
I'm always keeping my eyes out for the next big trending nail designs, so, I decided to find out exactly what party nail designs will be big news for 2024. Scroll ahead for the top 53 party nail designs I found—you'll want to get your nail tech on speed dial.
53 Party Nail Designs To Try Now:
Minimalist Party Nail Designs
Party nails don't have to be full-blown glitter. If you're more minimalistic with your nail art, then a gold or silver embellishment on each nail adds subtle sparkles for the party season.
This minimalist gemstone French manicure speaks volumes.
If you like minimalist swirl nail art, then why not try a metallic version for the festive season?
A few dots of gold along the edge of your nails instantly gives party season pizazz.
These almond shaped Bordeaux red French tips ooze sophistication.
Short nails look great with a chrome manicure, as this gold nail art design shows.
If you've got long nails, then why not go all out with a holographic silver French tip?
A post shared by Betina R. Goldstein (@betina_goldstein)
A photo posted by on
Nail artist Betina Goldstein coined these nails 'French Moonlight' and we couldn't have described it better ourselves.
A glass manicure is the chicest look for party season.
Glitter Party Nail Designs
An all over glitter is a failsafe party nail design.
I'm mesmerised by these discoball nails with green gems.
Don't fancy full-throttle glitter nails? An ombre allows you to dip a fingertip into some sparkles.
Leave the base of your nails free of colour and line the tips of your nails with a slither of glitter.
These frosted French tips are so pretty in a twinkling blue shade.
How pretty is this negative space glitter French manicure?
A swipe of glitter at the cuticle is an unexpected twist on glittery nails.
Embellished Party Nail Designs
I think I've found my NYE nails with this crystal-studded look.
Small pieces of silver chrome foil look pretty placed at the base of the nails.
If you're usually a neutral nail kind of person, why not go for one sparkly embellished nail for the party season?
Abstract chrome nail art looks beautiful when matched to your rings—it's like an extension of your jewellery.
These nails are even more sparkly than a glass of fizz.
Starry nights call for celestial nail art.
This pearl nail design looks chic but edgy.
Elevate a gold nail colour with some tiny pearl embellishments.
Simple yet stunning.
Bow embellishments are so fun.
Party Nail Art Designs
This reverse French manicure with glitter and teardrop nail art on Gemma Chan is a work of art. Nail artist Betina Goldstein was inspired by Hollywood actress, Anna May Wong's iconic pointed nails.
Some simple star nail stickers can instantly give your manicure a party update.
A smattering of gold polish dots looks so stylish.
Update a deep red nail colour with a gilded gold French tip.
A halo of metallic polish gives bare nails an ethereal glow as the light catches your fingertips.
Silver chrome tips are perfect for the festive season.
Why not experiment with gold leaf on the tips of your nails?
Velvet nails—also known as cat eye nails—are a trending nail design right now. This kind of nail polish reacts to a magnet which gives that plush velvet effect.
This classic red French manicure will see you through the entire party season, and works for both day and night.
Winter whites are always a party season winner.
Party Nail Colours
Is this the chicest looking nail colour? Quite possibly.
When in doubt, a deep mulled wine colour will serve your fingertips well.
Equally, a vibrant red is a great way to ring in the party season.
Don't underestimate the power of a deep chocolate hue.
Glossy black will go with everything and works for any occasion.
A muted red is a favourite of the fashion set.
Chrome Party Nail Designs
The 'glazed donut' nail trend isn't going anywhere (thanks, Hailey Bieber), and this frosty version is ideal for the festive season.
Holographic chrome nails? So pretty.
These powder chrome nails catch the light in the prettiest of ways.
This ruby red has such a dimensional look.
Brown chrome nails are just so beautiful.
This pearlescent finish is timeless.
Silver is so on trend.
Chrome Party Nail Designs
Can't decide between two colours? Go for one on each hand, or even on each nail.
This green velvet nail art is festive without being overdone.
Is this the prettiest ruby red ever? We think so.
The coolest party mani.
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
Shop the Essentials Needed to Achieve Party-Ready Nails at Home:
Eleanor Vousden is the beauty editor for Who What Wear UK. She was previously deputy editor at Hairdressers Journal, health writer at Woman & Home and junior beauty editor at beauty website Powder. She has also contributed to Wallpaper and Elle Collections with written and styling work.Working as a beauty journalist since 2015 after graduating in fashion journalism at the London College of Fashion, she has been highly commended at the BSME Talent Awards for her work on Powder and also contributed to the title winning Website of the Year at the PPA Awards.Eleanor’s journalistic focus is to provide readers with honest and helpful beauty content. Through words, video and live broadcast, she has interviewed several celebrity makeup artists, hairstylists and top dermatologists throughout her career, as well as celebrities such as Sarah Jessica Parker and Scarlett Johansson. She has a particular interest in finding solutions for acne and eczema, which she has experienced firsthand. She has also amassed a large collection of fragrances and can never say no to a new candle.When she’s not writing or testing the latest beauty product or treatments, she’s on the seafront in her hometown of Brighton and Hove, where she lives with her partner and her miniature dachshund.
-
According to Instagram, Stylish People Are Only Wearing These Acrylic Nail Designs
BRB, I'm booking my nail appointment.
By Maya Thomas
-
Yep, It's Official: Hailey Bieber's "Sugar Cookie" Nails Are My New Holiday Beauty Obsession
They're frosty and festive.
By Kaitlyn McLintock
-
I'm Kicking Off 2025 With an Elite Beauty Routine—30 Finds I Can't Wait to Start Using
My wallet won't know what hit it.
By Maya Thomas
-
This At-Home Gel Mani Kit Is All Over Instagram, so We Tried It
Honest thoughts (and before-and-after pics) ahead.
By Kaitlyn McLintock
-
This Summer-Coded Mani Looks 10 Times Chicer in the Winter—Here's Proof
I know you're stylish if I see you with these nails.
By Jamie Schneider
-
This Trending Nail Color Looks Even More Elegant on Your Toes—Angelina Jolie's Pedi Is Proof
I'm taking screenshots for my next appointment.
By Jamie Schneider
-
Calling It: This Nail Design Trend Is Set to Be Everywhere This Season—I Found 10 Unique Takes
They're so stunning.
By Shawna Hudson
-
No Nail Polish Remover? No Problem—Manicurists Share the Best Tips (and What Not to Do)
This intel is vital.
By Jamie Schneider