Have you started putting your beauty moodboard together for Detty December? You know the drill: hairstyles you want to try, makeup looks you’ve been saving, and, of course, booking that nail appointment. With a calendar that will likely be filled with weddings, parties, dinners and spontaneous outings, you want every little detail of your beauty looks to come together. And your nails? They deserve a spot at the top of that list in a chic design, especially if you’ve been giving your natural nails a break.

A good manicure can change the feel of an entire look. It can add a pop of colour, bring an outfit together or become the main attraction all on its own. We’ve seen some lovely nail trends this year, from the glossy, almost hypnotic appeal of cat-eye nails to playful multicoloured sets that make a case for wearing more than one shade at a time. Whether you’re drawn to intricate patterns, vibrant colours, interesting finishes or delicate embellishments, there’s plenty of room to get creative with your festive manicure.

Cat-eye nails
Go for glossy burnt orange and green cat-eye nails. Photo Credit: Sonia Sanchez/Instagram

And there’s no single formula for getting it right. Short, neat nails, long dramatic stilettos, classic square tips, gel, BIAB, or alternative finishes—the possibilities are endless. You can always stick to your favourite shades, or use Detty December as an excuse to step outside your comfort zone. The trick is finding a design that feels like you and suits the festive mood you’re going for.

If you’re still deciding what to ask for at your next nail appointment, we’ve rounded up some stunning nail sets to inspire your Detty December manicure:

Nail designs
Try a multi-toned cat-eye set with stripes, abstract lines and polka dots. Photo Credit: Sharon Ladokun/Instagram
Gold nail sets
Go bold with gold chrome nails. Photo Credit: Damola’s Beauty Affair/Instagram
Cat-eye nails
Try a short square set with multicoloured cat-eye designs. Photo Credit: Sharon Ladokun/Instagram
Detty December nails
Try a glossy blue cat-eye set. Photo Credit: Nailology/Instagram
Detty December nails
Go for a nude set with technicolour swirls. Photo Credit: Edosé Okojie/Instagram

 

Cat-eye nails
Go for glossy burnt orange and green cat-eye nails. Photo Credit: Sonia Sanchez/Instagram
Detty December nails
Go with a hot red stiletto set with a touch of print. Photo Credit: Tamara Renaye/Instagram
Detty December nails
A classic nude stiletto set with multicoloured tips. Photo Credit: Sharon Ladokun/Instagram
Short nail designs
Try zebra print and polka dot designs on a plush pink base. Photo Credit: Rockland County Nail Tech/Instagram
Detty December nails
Go for a short dark and lemon green set. Photo Credit: Nailology/Instagram