The holidays are when our hands get the most attention: raised glasses, gifts to unwrap, family photos. Polished nails are part of the look, just like the outfit.
In short: for a festive look that lasts from Christmas to New Year's, choose gel polish (Shellac) or a set, done a few days before December 24, and book early in December. For style, red, gold, silver chrome and a reworked French are the safe bets. Here are our ideas, and how to adapt them to your routine at Ongles Spa J&K in Gatineau.
Seven Christmas and holiday nail ideas
You don't need trees painted on all ten nails for a festive look. The ideas below go from subtle to show-stopping; almost all of them work on natural nails with gel polish, or on a set for extra length.
Classic red
A deep, glossy red is still the number one holiday choice. It goes with every outfit, on short or long nails. For a little extra, add a gold or glitter accent nail.
Gold and glitter
A gold glitter finish, on every nail or faded from the tip, catches the light from decorations and candles. On a nude or pearly pink base, it stays elegant even at the office.
Silver or gold chrome
The mirror effect of chrome recalls Christmas ornaments. It looks great on an almond shape and pairs well with a fine French.
A reworked French
A classic French turns festive with a red, gold, glitter or chrome tip. It's the ideal option if you want to stay subtle at work with a holiday touch.
Burgundy, forest green and midnight blue
To move beyond red, deep shades (burgundy, forest green, midnight blue, black with gold accents) are chic and wear well all winter, long after December 25.
Cat eye
Magnetic gel creates a band of light that moves with the angle, like velvet. It looks luxurious without any pattern, perfect for an office party or Christmas Eve.
Designs and rhinestones for a big night
Snowflakes, flowers, crystals or rhinestones on one or more nails: the most striking option, ideal for Christmas Eve or New Year's. Bring a photo of the idea that inspires you.
Which technique lasts through the holidays?
Between Christmas and New Year's there's a week of meals, dishes and gift wrapping. The technique matters as much as the colour.
- Regular polish: ideal for a single event. It usually lasts a few days to a week.
- Gel polish (Shellac): lasts about two weeks on hands. Done a few days before December 24, it normally covers Christmas and New Year's.
- Bio Gel, Solar or dip powder set: for extra length, an almond or coffin shape, or heavy nail art. Refills are every two to three weeks.
When to book your holiday manicure
December is one of the busiest times for nail salons, and the days before Christmas go fast. A few guidelines:
- Book at the start of December if you're aiming for December 15 to 23.
- For an office party, plan your appointment a day or two before, not the same day.
- To cover Christmas and New Year's with one appointment, aim for gel polish or a set around December 20 to 22.
- Mention nail art or rhinestones when you book: detailed designs take more time.
- Opening hours may change on statutory holidays: call us at (819) 770-6886 to confirm.
Make your holiday nails last
The holidays are hard on nails. Wear gloves for the dishes after big meals, use scissors rather than your nails for gift tape, and apply cuticle oil at night: dry Outaouais winter air weakens the skin around the nail. If a nail lifts, don't pull it off; book a repair. All our tips are in our nail aftercare guide.
Starting prices at Ongles Spa J&K
Your holiday look is a base service plus, if you like, a nail art add-on.
| Service | Starting price |
|---|---|
| Classic manicure | $25 |
| Shellac manicure | $40 |
| Manicure & pedicure package with Shellac | $85 |
| Bio Gel: full set | $70 |
| French add-on | from $10 |
| Chrome add-on | from $10 |
| Cat eye add-on | $10 |
| Design add-on | from $5 |
Frequently asked questions
What nail colour should I choose for Christmas?
Deep red is the classic. Gold, silver chrome, burgundy and forest green are also very popular. For a subtle look, a French with a gold or glitter tip works well.
How long before Christmas should I get my nails done?
For gel polish or a set, two to four days before December 24 is ideal. Done around December 20 to 22, gel polish normally covers Christmas and New Year's.
Can I get Christmas nails on short nails?
Yes. Glossy red, gold glitter or chrome look great on short squoval or oval nails. Fine nail art and an accent nail work too.
Do I need to book ahead for the holidays?
Yes, especially for the week before Christmas. Book at the start of December online through BookMyNails or at (819) 770-6886.
Can I give a manicure as a gift?
To find out whether gift cards are currently available, call us at (819) 770-6886; the team can also suggest a service to give.
Last updated: · Prices are indicative and confirmed at booking.