20 Almond Nail Ideas for January to Start the Year in Style


@melanated.mani / instagram
It’s officially 2026. We couldn’t be more excited about the year ahead and all the manicures to come. While there’s endless inspiration to pull from for a January set, we’re particularly into almond manicures at the moment. Whether you opt for intricate designs or a simple coat of polish, almond-shaped nails always look sophisticated. Ahead, we’ve compiled 20 of our favorite almond manicures for January to help inspire your look this month.
Striped Tips


@brushedbyb_ / instagram
Start the new year with a playful twist on the classic French manicure. For this striped take, the more colors, the merrier.
Earth Tone Nails


@pop_polished / instagram
This one’s for the minimalist who still loves to dabble in nail art. With its earth tone palette, these abstract designs are subtle yet striking.
Celestial Shimmer Nails


@melanated.mani / instagram
This sparkling set exudes celestial, galaxy vibes. To get the look, start with a mauve-brown jelly base and top it with a sheer, shimmery blue polish.
Pretty Periwinkle Nails


@melanated.mani / instagram
Periwinkle is such a pretty and posh color. Bring that sophisticated energy to your nails by coating all of your nails in the shade.
Glistening Snowflake Nails


@brushedbyb_ / instagram
This manicure makes us excited about the impending winter weather. Even if you’re not a fan of colder temperatures, this shimmery snowflake and peppermint swirl manicure is the perfect festive look for January.
Matte French Nails


@saruhnails / instagram
When looking at this burgundy manicure, the word “chic” is the first thing that comes to mind. Consider trying out this contrasting matte and glossy French manicure this month.
Art Deco Nails


@nailsbysuman / instagram
A lot of beauty inspiration can be pulled from The Roaring Twenties. For nails, a gold Art Deco design is an on-theme choice.
Sunset Aura Nails


@brushedbyb_ / instagram
Aura designs continue to dominate the nail world. If you haven’t tried this trend yet, the new year is the perfect time.
Sparkling Snow Nails


@heluviee / instagram
Who says sparkles are just for the holidays? Bring a little sparkle into January with these silver glitter French tips. Don’t forget the snowflake accents.
Exaggerated Gold Nails


@nailsbysuman / instagram
You can achieve this gorgeous, elongated French manicure with any color you wish. However, metallic gold is an excellent choice for the new year.
Funky Mismatched Nails


@brushedbyb_ / instagram
Eclectic, funky manicures are right up our alley this year. Let your creativity flourish with a mismatched manicure like this—featuring everything from aura accents to intricate builder gel designs.
Purple Crackle Nails


@yo_keshh / instagram
Now is the time to lean into glitter and glam. This purple crackle manicure is all that and then some.
Celestial Chrome Nails


@paintboxnails / instagram
Chilly winter weather calls for an equally cool manicure. This icy silver nail look—complete with chrome stars—is a prime option for January.
Brat Green Nails


@nailsbysuman / instagram
“Brat Green” isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. Make your first manicure of the new year a fun one by going for the neon green shade. Enhance the bright set with gold chrome swirls.
Frosty Blue Nails


@melanated.mani / instagram
Take this as a sign to embrace pastels this month. A pearlescent, baby blue polish is most fitting for the season.
Intergalactic Velvet Nails


@melanated.mani / instagram
This might be our favorite look of them all. While this intergalactic-inspired look can be customized, we’re partial to these deep winter tones.
Silver Swirl Nails


@nails_and_soul / instagram
If you’re a fan of minimalist nail art, try this silver metallic swirl pattern. It’ll spice up your next manicure without stepping too far outside your comfort zone.
Dripping in Gold


@yo_keshh / instagram
These gorgeous 3D gold nails are a luxe alternative to a classic French mani. If you’re looking for a manicure with the extra “wow” factor, look no further than this almond set.
Edgy Chrome Nails


@nails_and_soul / instagram
If you love chrome, consider this silver look for your next salon visit. The black polish accents add a distinct edge, but you can choose any color you want to make it your own.
Classic Red Nails


@disseynails / instagram
Red manicures are timeless, so why not start the year with one? Add extra elegance to the look by opting for a polish with a hint of shimmer.
Related Stories
-

22 Velvet Nail Ideas for February That Bring Cozy Romance to Your Mani -

18 “Baby Chrome” Manicures for a Subtly Glazed Nail Look -

32 Gel Nail Ideas for February That Will Steal Your Heart -

Chill Out Your Winter Manicure With These 22 Icy Nail Ideas -

25 Gel Nail Ideas for January, From Wintry Whites to Glamorous Glitter -

These 17 Elegant Winter Nail Ideas Scream Sophistication -

21 Short Nail Ideas for February Full of Simple, Sweet Romance -

8 Essie Gel Polish Shades to Ask for in 2026, According to Nail Pros
-

18 Simple January Nail Art Ideas for an Inspired Fresh Start -

23 January Chrome Nail Ideas to Kick Off the Year With Sparkle -

21 February Nail Ideas to Channel Your Inner Romantic -

24 Short Nail Ideas For Winter, From New Neutrals to Deep Designs -

19 Winter Gel Nail Ideas for a Long-Lasting Seasonal Mani -

Try These 15 Short Nail Ideas in January for “New Year, New Me” Energy -

BIAB Is the Key to Your Strongest, Most Resilient Manicure Yet -

8 Nail Polish Colors to Try This February, From Cool Gray to Deep Plum
20 Almond Nail Ideas for January to Start the Year in Style


@melanated.mani / instagram
It’s officially 2026. We couldn’t be more excited about the year ahead and all the manicures to come. While there’s endless inspiration to pull from for a January set, we’re particularly into almond manicures at the moment. Whether you opt for intricate designs or a simple coat of polish, almond-shaped nails always look sophisticated. Ahead, we’ve compiled 20 of our favorite almond manicures for January to help inspire your look this month.
Striped Tips


@brushedbyb_ / instagram
Start the new year with a playful twist on the classic French manicure. For this striped take, the more colors, the merrier.
Earth Tone Nails


@pop_polished / instagram
This one’s for the minimalist who still loves to dabble in nail art. With its earth tone palette, these abstract designs are subtle yet striking.
Celestial Shimmer Nails


@melanated.mani / instagram
This sparkling set exudes celestial, galaxy vibes. To get the look, start with a mauve-brown jelly base and top it with a sheer, shimmery blue polish.
Pretty Periwinkle Nails


@melanated.mani / instagram
Periwinkle is such a pretty and posh color. Bring that sophisticated energy to your nails by coating all of your nails in the shade.
Glistening Snowflake Nails


@brushedbyb_ / instagram
This manicure makes us excited about the impending winter weather. Even if you’re not a fan of colder temperatures, this shimmery snowflake and peppermint swirl manicure is the perfect festive look for January.
Matte French Nails


@saruhnails / instagram
When looking at this burgundy manicure, the word “chic” is the first thing that comes to mind. Consider trying out this contrasting matte and glossy French manicure this month.
Art Deco Nails


@nailsbysuman / instagram
A lot of beauty inspiration can be pulled from The Roaring Twenties. For nails, a gold Art Deco design is an on-theme choice.
Sunset Aura Nails


@brushedbyb_ / instagram
Aura designs continue to dominate the nail world. If you haven’t tried this trend yet, the new year is the perfect time.
Sparkling Snow Nails


@heluviee / instagram
Who says sparkles are just for the holidays? Bring a little sparkle into January with these silver glitter French tips. Don’t forget the snowflake accents.
Exaggerated Gold Nails


@nailsbysuman / instagram
You can achieve this gorgeous, elongated French manicure with any color you wish. However, metallic gold is an excellent choice for the new year.
Funky Mismatched Nails


@brushedbyb_ / instagram
Eclectic, funky manicures are right up our alley this year. Let your creativity flourish with a mismatched manicure like this—featuring everything from aura accents to intricate builder gel designs.
Purple Crackle Nails


@yo_keshh / instagram
Now is the time to lean into glitter and glam. This purple crackle manicure is all that and then some.
Celestial Chrome Nails


@paintboxnails / instagram
Chilly winter weather calls for an equally cool manicure. This icy silver nail look—complete with chrome stars—is a prime option for January.
Brat Green Nails


@nailsbysuman / instagram
“Brat Green” isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. Make your first manicure of the new year a fun one by going for the neon green shade. Enhance the bright set with gold chrome swirls.
Frosty Blue Nails


@melanated.mani / instagram
Take this as a sign to embrace pastels this month. A pearlescent, baby blue polish is most fitting for the season.
Intergalactic Velvet Nails


@melanated.mani / instagram
This might be our favorite look of them all. While this intergalactic-inspired look can be customized, we’re partial to these deep winter tones.
Silver Swirl Nails


@nails_and_soul / instagram
If you’re a fan of minimalist nail art, try this silver metallic swirl pattern. It’ll spice up your next manicure without stepping too far outside your comfort zone.
Dripping in Gold


@yo_keshh / instagram
These gorgeous 3D gold nails are a luxe alternative to a classic French mani. If you’re looking for a manicure with the extra “wow” factor, look no further than this almond set.
Edgy Chrome Nails


@nails_and_soul / instagram
If you love chrome, consider this silver look for your next salon visit. The black polish accents add a distinct edge, but you can choose any color you want to make it your own.
Classic Red Nails


@disseynails / instagram
Red manicures are timeless, so why not start the year with one? Add extra elegance to the look by opting for a polish with a hint of shimmer.


@melanated.mani / instagram
It’s officially 2026. We couldn’t be more excited about the year ahead and all the manicures to come. While there’s endless inspiration to pull from for a January set, we’re particularly into almond manicures at the moment. Whether you opt for intricate designs or a simple coat of polish, almond-shaped nails always look sophisticated. Ahead, we’ve compiled 20 of our favorite almond manicures for January to help inspire your look this month.
Striped Tips


@brushedbyb_ / instagram
Start the new year with a playful twist on the classic French manicure. For this striped take, the more colors, the merrier.
Earth Tone Nails


@pop_polished / instagram
This one’s for the minimalist who still loves to dabble in nail art. With its earth tone palette, these abstract designs are subtle yet striking.
Celestial Shimmer Nails


@melanated.mani / instagram
This sparkling set exudes celestial, galaxy vibes. To get the look, start with a mauve-brown jelly base and top it with a sheer, shimmery blue polish.
Pretty Periwinkle Nails


@melanated.mani / instagram
Periwinkle is such a pretty and posh color. Bring that sophisticated energy to your nails by coating all of your nails in the shade.
Glistening Snowflake Nails


@brushedbyb_ / instagram
This manicure makes us excited about the impending winter weather. Even if you’re not a fan of colder temperatures, this shimmery snowflake and peppermint swirl manicure is the perfect festive look for January.
Matte French Nails


@saruhnails / instagram
When looking at this burgundy manicure, the word “chic” is the first thing that comes to mind. Consider trying out this contrasting matte and glossy French manicure this month.
Art Deco Nails


@nailsbysuman / instagram
A lot of beauty inspiration can be pulled from The Roaring Twenties. For nails, a gold Art Deco design is an on-theme choice.
Sunset Aura Nails


@brushedbyb_ / instagram
Aura designs continue to dominate the nail world. If you haven’t tried this trend yet, the new year is the perfect time.
Sparkling Snow Nails


@heluviee / instagram
Who says sparkles are just for the holidays? Bring a little sparkle into January with these silver glitter French tips. Don’t forget the snowflake accents.
Exaggerated Gold Nails


@nailsbysuman / instagram
You can achieve this gorgeous, elongated French manicure with any color you wish. However, metallic gold is an excellent choice for the new year.
Funky Mismatched Nails


@brushedbyb_ / instagram
Eclectic, funky manicures are right up our alley this year. Let your creativity flourish with a mismatched manicure like this—featuring everything from aura accents to intricate builder gel designs.
Purple Crackle Nails


@yo_keshh / instagram
Now is the time to lean into glitter and glam. This purple crackle manicure is all that and then some.
Celestial Chrome Nails


@paintboxnails / instagram
Chilly winter weather calls for an equally cool manicure. This icy silver nail look—complete with chrome stars—is a prime option for January.
Brat Green Nails


@nailsbysuman / instagram
“Brat Green” isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. Make your first manicure of the new year a fun one by going for the neon green shade. Enhance the bright set with gold chrome swirls.
Frosty Blue Nails


@melanated.mani / instagram
Take this as a sign to embrace pastels this month. A pearlescent, baby blue polish is most fitting for the season.
Intergalactic Velvet Nails


@melanated.mani / instagram
This might be our favorite look of them all. While this intergalactic-inspired look can be customized, we’re partial to these deep winter tones.
Silver Swirl Nails


@nails_and_soul / instagram
If you’re a fan of minimalist nail art, try this silver metallic swirl pattern. It’ll spice up your next manicure without stepping too far outside your comfort zone.
Dripping in Gold


@yo_keshh / instagram
These gorgeous 3D gold nails are a luxe alternative to a classic French mani. If you’re looking for a manicure with the extra “wow” factor, look no further than this almond set.
Edgy Chrome Nails


@nails_and_soul / instagram
If you love chrome, consider this silver look for your next salon visit. The black polish accents add a distinct edge, but you can choose any color you want to make it your own.
Classic Red Nails


@disseynails / instagram
Red manicures are timeless, so why not start the year with one? Add extra elegance to the look by opting for a polish with a hint of shimmer.
Striped Tips


@brushedbyb_ / instagram
Start the new year with a playful twist on the classic French manicure. For this striped take, the more colors, the merrier.
Earth Tone Nails


@pop_polished / instagram
This one’s for the minimalist who still loves to dabble in nail art. With its earth tone palette, these abstract designs are subtle yet striking.
Celestial Shimmer Nails


@melanated.mani / instagram
This sparkling set exudes celestial, galaxy vibes. To get the look, start with a mauve-brown jelly base and top it with a sheer, shimmery blue polish.
Pretty Periwinkle Nails


@melanated.mani / instagram
Periwinkle is such a pretty and posh color. Bring that sophisticated energy to your nails by coating all of your nails in the shade.
Glistening Snowflake Nails


@brushedbyb_ / instagram
This manicure makes us excited about the impending winter weather. Even if you’re not a fan of colder temperatures, this shimmery snowflake and peppermint swirl manicure is the perfect festive look for January.
Matte French Nails


@saruhnails / instagram
When looking at this burgundy manicure, the word “chic” is the first thing that comes to mind. Consider trying out this contrasting matte and glossy French manicure this month.
Art Deco Nails


@nailsbysuman / instagram
A lot of beauty inspiration can be pulled from The Roaring Twenties. For nails, a gold Art Deco design is an on-theme choice.
Sunset Aura Nails


@brushedbyb_ / instagram
Aura designs continue to dominate the nail world. If you haven’t tried this trend yet, the new year is the perfect time.
Sparkling Snow Nails


@heluviee / instagram
Who says sparkles are just for the holidays? Bring a little sparkle into January with these silver glitter French tips. Don’t forget the snowflake accents.
Exaggerated Gold Nails


@nailsbysuman / instagram
You can achieve this gorgeous, elongated French manicure with any color you wish. However, metallic gold is an excellent choice for the new year.
Funky Mismatched Nails


@brushedbyb_ / instagram
Eclectic, funky manicures are right up our alley this year. Let your creativity flourish with a mismatched manicure like this—featuring everything from aura accents to intricate builder gel designs.
Purple Crackle Nails


@yo_keshh / instagram
Now is the time to lean into glitter and glam. This purple crackle manicure is all that and then some.
Celestial Chrome Nails


@paintboxnails / instagram
Chilly winter weather calls for an equally cool manicure. This icy silver nail look—complete with chrome stars—is a prime option for January.
Brat Green Nails


@nailsbysuman / instagram
“Brat Green” isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. Make your first manicure of the new year a fun one by going for the neon green shade. Enhance the bright set with gold chrome swirls.
Frosty Blue Nails


@melanated.mani / instagram
Take this as a sign to embrace pastels this month. A pearlescent, baby blue polish is most fitting for the season.
Intergalactic Velvet Nails


@melanated.mani / instagram
This might be our favorite look of them all. While this intergalactic-inspired look can be customized, we’re partial to these deep winter tones.
Silver Swirl Nails


@nails_and_soul / instagram
If you’re a fan of minimalist nail art, try this silver metallic swirl pattern. It’ll spice up your next manicure without stepping too far outside your comfort zone.
Dripping in Gold


@yo_keshh / instagram
These gorgeous 3D gold nails are a luxe alternative to a classic French mani. If you’re looking for a manicure with the extra “wow” factor, look no further than this almond set.
Edgy Chrome Nails


@nails_and_soul / instagram
If you love chrome, consider this silver look for your next salon visit. The black polish accents add a distinct edge, but you can choose any color you want to make it your own.
Classic Red Nails


@disseynails / instagram
Red manicures are timeless, so why not start the year with one? Add extra elegance to the look by opting for a polish with a hint of shimmer.
Source URL: https://www.byrdie.com/almond-nail-ideas-for-january-11880713
