The new year is here, and my Instagram and TikTok feeds are already full of people listing their resolutions for January and beyond. Although I'm not usually one to make resolutions myself, one thing I do want to do this year is focus on my self-care routines. After spending December feeling (and looking) rather tired and rundown, I really want to make sure that I'm setting aside time for myself in 2024 to do all those little things that make me feel good. Something that I used to love doing was treating myself to a manicure every two to three weeks. Whether this was by taking myself to my favourite salon or simply treating myself to a new nail polish and painting my nails at home, I always felt so much better when my nails looked good.
Having said goodbye to my festive manicure the second January rolled around, I've been thinking about what colour to opt for now that Christmas is over. Although I'm done with metallic colours and glittery topcoats for the time being, I still want to have fun with my nails to help fight those January blues. So after doing some research and looking for the shades currently standing out on social media, I believe I've come up with five of the trendiest manis that we can expect to see everywhere this month.
Whether you prefer a neutral colour or statement nail art, I've included something for everyone, so keep on scrolling for all the inspiration you need for your first manicure of the year.
The Best January Nail Colours to Try
1. Natural Chrome Nails
Chrome nails were everywhere last year, and although I believe that this trend is here to stay, I suspect people will be opting for more natural base colours this January for a subtle, fresh update on the trend. I've already seen lots of natural-looking chrome manis on Instagram, and I think it's the perfect way to bring some subtle sparkle and shine into 2024.
In fact, the hashtag #nudechromenails has over 750,000 views on TikTok, so if that doesn't convince you, I don't know what will.
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This Beauty Pie polish will give you a natural chrome-looking finish without all the fuss.
This set has everything you need for a nude base and a chrome finish.
2. Blue Nails
Forget January blues, because this month is all about bright blue nails. This is another colour I'm seeing everywhere at the moment, and I think it's perfect for this time of year. Whether you want to opt for an icy blue to match the weather or a bolder hue to bring a little colour to a dull day, it's totally up to you how you wear this trend.
Pastel blue is perfect if you want something a little more pared-back, and this colour also makes a great option as we get closer to spring.
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How stunning is this baby blue shade from Gucci?
For more of a statement finish, opt for this colour from Nailberry.
3. Nude Nails
A lot of my friends have said that they want to take better care of their nails this January, and if you do too, then a nude manicure is the way to go. This low-maintenance option will save you from having to get your nails done every couple of weeks, and the natural-looking finish makes them look so healthy.
Trust me, after weeks of acrylic or gel over the festive season, your nails will thank you for a much-needed break.
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Not only will this polish give your nails a nude finish, but it'll also help to protect against chipping and peeling.
Nails. Inc also does a great strengthening treatment with a hint of colour.
4. Leopard-Print Nail Art
If Instagram is anything to go by, then leopard print is set to be huge in 2024—just take Wales Bonner's latest trainer collab with Adidas. The stylish leopard-print Samba trainers have been all over my feed, and I think it's time that we incorporated this trend into our manicures too.
There are so many fun ways to add the popular print to your nail design, and I guarantee that whatever you go for, this nail art will earn you so many compliments.
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Nail art like this can be hard to do yourself, so keep things simple with some press-on nails.
These clever polishes do all the hard work for you by giving nails an instant leopard-print effect.
5. Red Nails
Lots of us opted for red nails over Christmas, but thanks to this colour's classic, timeless appeal, I have no doubt that this manicure will be popular throughout January as well.
Pairing this colour with a shorter nail shape looks so chic. This mani will add a pop of colour to any neutral outfit.
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If you want to treat yourself, I'm a big fan of this perfect red from Dior.
Rimmel also has some great, much more affordable options.
Next Up: 16 French-Manicure Ideas I've Saved for My January Salon Trip
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