12 luxe-looking Christmas French nails that perfectly balance minimalism with festive cheer

When it comes to selecting your manicure for party season, sometimes putting a festive spin on a classic design is the way to go and these 12 Christmas French nails are the picture of luxury...

French tip nails are arguably one of the most timeless manicures out there and while your mind might instantly go to that nude almond nail, with a crisp and curved white tip, the design is actually surprisingly versatile. In fact, this year alone has welcomed many a modern and stylish iteration - from burgundy French tip nails to short French tips - but December is when we can really embrace the elegant look and elevate it even further, with the help of glitters, chromes and the season's merriest hues.

So, whether you're looking to spice up your next set of BIAB nails, or want subtle and expensive-looking nails to reign in the New Year, we've rounded up 12 chic and simple Christmas French tip designs to fulfil every aesthetic...

12 luxe Christmas French nails to request this season

As mentioned, a French tip manicure typically features a nude or milky pink base, with a white or cream polish then applied along the edge of your nails - to enhance and accentuate your natural tips. This season though, is the perfect opportunity to deck your talons with a shimmer or pop of festive red, whilst still maintaining the minimalist and elegant feel that the classic design affords. Speaking of which, we've selected 12 such options - all of which can be adapted to suit different nail lengths and shapes - and will look effortlessly festive (and sophisticated) this party season.

Our quick picks for French Tip looks

Before we dive into all the French tip nail looks we're loving this December, let's talk nail care. If you're looking to recreate any of these designs at home, we'd recommend investing in one of the best nail strengtheners - to ensure your fingertips are in tip-top condition.

French tips also show a fair amount of your natural nail, so a cuticle oil (like OPI's cuticle oil, which is available at Amazon) is key. As is a good hand cream, to ward off dry and chapped skin. And of course, we've included a few French tip staples to help recreate your favourite looks...

1. The first snowfall French tips

If you're looking for a really subtle twist on the classic French manicure, this half-tip look is perfect. It's clean and minimal but still very on-theme for the festive season. It reminds us of a light dusting of snow and it's so easy to recreate.

All you'll need is a thin, detailing nail art brush, a milky white nail polish and of course, a glossy top coat.

2. Glittery French nails

For a truly Christmas-ready look, glitter is a must but if you're a lover of understated nail looks, this micro, shimmery tip is perfect. Paired with a glossy nude nail, the tip covers just the end of the fingernail - unlike classic French manis, which often feature a larger, crescent moon curve. The sparkle though is enchanting and will not fail to elevate all of your party attire.

3. Touch of gold French tips

If you're not a fan of glitter but still want to channel the festivities with a minimal and chic French tip, this gold chrome look is a must-try. You can opt for a clean curve but personally, we love how these tips are ever-so-slightly wavy and varied, mimicking marbling or natural precious stones.

4. Subtle burgundy

If you've been loving the dark red nail trend - particularly Black Cherry nails - these burgundy micro tips should be on your radar. They're subtle but ooze sophistication, and like with most of these French Tip looks, they're very easy to recreate.

A French tip nail stamper (available at Amazon) is a great tool for this, or you can just use a thin nail brush.

5. Copper French tips

Another chrome option, you say? No problem - these copper French tips remind us of tinsel and are so chic for parties or just to give your everyday manicure a hint of festive cheer. They're simple and will suit all nail shapes, though shorter squoval nails seem to be the most popular option right now and for good reason, as the above picture proves.

6. Double glitter French tips

If you really want to embrace the French tip look, why not make it a double? This look features two lines, painted with a glittery silver nail polish and the effect is just gorgeous. They're still simple, but ideal for the countdown to the big day.

7. Black French tips

Of course, festive reds and gold glitters aren't for everyone and who says Christmas can't just be an excuse to get a very chic nail look? Black French tips are timeless and so stylish and definitely deserve some consideration this festive season.

8. Red micro French tips

Speaking of red, we couldn't not include a touch of signature red on this list. If you're looking for a really easy Christmas nail look, this is it. A bright red is always synonymous with this time of year, so you can't go wrong.

Tip-wise, depending on your nail length you can adapt this nail colour to your preferred shape, whether that's a large half-moon curve or just a micro tip.

9. A hint of gold glitter

If you already have a French manicure and want to give it a Christmas refresh or perhaps you want to combine two festive colours, adding another line of shimmery gold is such a simple and effective option. It instantly adds a hint of sparkle, whether you pair it with black, red or classic white.

10. Silver chrome French tips

Silver, like gold, is a Christmas classic so opting for a silver chrome French manicure is a no-brainer. You can recreate this look with a metallic nail polish, or by adding a chrome powder over the top of a clear, white or grey line.

11. Silver chrome cuff nails

If you want to break the mould, these chrome cuffs - or upside French tips, if you will - offers a subtle statement. It's different but still minimalistic and can adapted to include your favourite colour or shimmer.

12. The classic

Of course, a classic French tip is always lovely for the holidays, especially if you're going for a luxury feel. This dainty design can be adapted to suit both long and short nails - but it's been especially trendy on short squoval nails lately.