We're Calling It: These Are the Nail Colors to Wear Right Now

It's a new year, so why not change up your manicure routine? These are the January nail colors we're obsessing over.

We're Calling It: These Are the Nail Colors to Wear Right Now

It's a new year, and you know what that means: Most of us are setting and working on personal goals and intentions, tossing out old habits that aren't serving us, and just looking for a fresh start. It's also a prime opportunity to have a little fun and try something new.

One way I like to mix things up at the beginning of the year is by changing up my beauty routine. And since a lot of us are spending a lot of time at home these days, there is plenty of time to test things out and figure out what works and what doesn't—all away from many eyes on you due to COVID-19 guidelines. Listen, I'm not forcing you to trim your own bangs or to box-dye your hair a crazy color, but if you did and it didn't quite work out, you'd probably have plenty of time to course-correct because of social distancing guidelines right now.

If you're a little wary of making a drastic change, you can take some baby steps and start with mixing up your manicure routine. If you normally stick to reds and neutrals, why not opt for blues and greens? Or if your nails are usually bare, you can treat yourself to an at-home mani and experiment with some new colors or designs. The sky's the limit here, and if you don't like it, well there's always nail polish remover!

To get you inspired, we compiled a list of our favorite nail colors to wear this January. Some are classics and we've got a couple of funky and unusual options. Take a look below:

Deep Blue

Deep, darker colors are the norm for the wintry season. Instead of an inky black polish, why not grab a dark navy polish? You still get that dramatic effect, but it's a little more unexpected.

OPI Nail Lacquer in Less is Norse ($11)

Olive & June Nail Polish in HJ ($8)

Purple

If you normally gravitate towards pinks and reds, you can switch things up with purple. There's a shade for any kind of mood or vibe—like a dark wine-inspired hue, something that veers towards magenta, or a soft mauve.

Chanel Le Vernis Longwear Nail Colour in Prune Dramatique ($28)

Orly Breathable Treatment and Color in The Snuggle Is Real ($10)

White

Wintry whites? How groundbreaking. But there's a reason why it's a classic hue, especially this time of year. Depending on the shade, it can look crisp and sophisticated, or soft and creamy. It's versatile and goes with just about any outfit or look.

Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Nail Polish in Get Mod ($7)

Essie Nail Polish in Marshmallow ($7)

Green

Winter might not seem like a "green" and lush season, so if you're missing that hue you can express it on your nails. Deep emerald polishes has a regal look, but softer sages can be so calming, too.

Smith & Cult Nail Lacquer in Darjeeling Darling ($18)

Cirque Colors Creme Nail Polish in Central Park After Dark ($13)

Neon

For those of you who think neons are more of a summer choice, hear us out. The wintry season can seem a little glum and not as bright with colder temps, so bring a little bit of happiness to your fingertips with some bold neon hues. The bright colors will definitely make a statement and might even lift your spirits.

Nails Inc. Naked In Neon Quad ($22)

Orly Nail Polish in So Fly ($10)

Gray

On the flip-side, reliable, goes-with-anything gray works year-round, but especially this time of year. A dark gunmetal gray can have the same strong effect as an inky black or deep navy polish. And a dove gray can add some lightness if you're looking for that type of mood.

Olive & June Nail Polish in AW ($8)

Christian Louboutin Rouge Louboutin Nail Colour in Daffodile ($50)

Nudes and Neutrals

And of course, you can also reach for the nudes and neutrals for a subtle manicure. It's always a timeless look. Plus, if you're not used to having color on your nails, it's a good place to start.