Top 10 Winter Nail Polishes

COCOA BROWN

WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT: Few neutrals feel more appropriate for winter than warm, latte-like browns. Reviewers say this one goes on smooth and thick, and even without a second coat or even a top coat, the staying power is top-notch.

FROM THE EXPERTS: In a comprehensive study, 100% of participants saw three times longer wear compared to other leading brands.

WHO IT'S FOR
If you're sick of sporting your usual deep reds and merlots, switch things up with this award-winning midnight blue. It's so dark that it almost veers black, but it feels a little fresher and more feminine.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
Smith & Cult's nail polishes are seriously long-lasting and shiny. One reviewer even claimed she typically goes nine days without a single chip.

COOL PINK

WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT: Pink may not be your usual shade this time of year, but this moody option is mauve-ier than most and feels perfect for December. Plus, it's made with Deborah Lippmann's dual-patented, nourishing formula that helps deliver the gloss and cushion of a gel mani without the damage.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: This hard-working polish contains 10 active ingredients that help improve nail health as you wear it.

YOUR NAILS BUT BETTER

WHO IT'S FOR: If you love a no-fuss nail look, Chanel's Boy De Chanel nail colors are sure to please. "Natural" is a transparent, barely-there shade that provides a matte, your-nails-but-better finish.

HELPFUL TIP: Since it's quick-drying, this shade is the perfect thing to pop on when you're short on time but need a little something on your nails.

EMERALD GREEN

WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT: Green nail colors have been trending for a while now, but this one really stands out from the crowd. It's a classic, deep emerald, but it's also super vivid and eye-catching. To top it all off, it complements all skin tones beautifully.

USER REVIEW: "This is a gorgeous green! I’m not usually one for greens, but this color completely changed my mind. It’s rich and perfect for the holiday season."

MOODY GREY

WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT: When it comes to cool-grey nail colors, this hue reigns supreme. It glides on smoothly and provides complete coverage, and it never bubbles or streaks.

USER REVIEW: "Love this new color collection and specifically this color! It is the perfect almost-black nail polish for fall. It goes with everything and does not disappoint!"

MOSSY GREEN

WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT: Over the obvious dark shades of burgundy, black, and deep blue? This enchanting forest green is a fresh alternative that still evokes all the winter feels—think scenic drives and premature Christmas decor.

USER REVIEW: "I LOVE this color. I used it for weeks around Christmastime, and then I just kept using it throughout the winter because I like darker shades and like this color much better than the navy and burgundy colors I've used in the past. My roommate noticed my nails the first day I wore it and immediately asked to borrow it that night."

DEEP PLUM

WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT: One of the most iconic OPI polishes on the market, Black Cherry Chutney nails that vampy, deep plum look. But what really sets it apart? It has just a touch of shimmer that makes it feel so right for winter.

USER REVIEW: "This is a BEAUTIFUL color! I wasn’t sure what to expect because I didn’t want it to be too reddish toned like OPI’s “I’m Not Really A Waitress,” but it’s definitely its own unique color. I am super impressed with it!"

ICY SILVER

WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT: No Place Like Chrome isn't your typical silver polish. It's more shimmery than glittery—think a shiny stainless-steel appliance.

APPLICATION TIP: If you'd like a subtler glam look, try applying it to just the tips for an updated French mani.

INKY BLACK

WHY IT MADE THE LIST: Is it really winter if you don't sport at least one black mani? Equal parts classic and cool, this iconic Essie shade is the crème de la crème of inky black nail colors.

HELPFUL TIP: Black is more versatile than you might think. For a subtler take, try using this shade for the tips of a French mani.