The 10 Best Nail Colors for Your First Manicure of 2026
NewBeauty Facebook Pinterest Instagram Youtube find a doctor Face Adult Acne Antioxidants Anti-Aging Celebrity Chronic Skin Conditions Eye Hydration Hyperpigmentation Makeup View All Eyebrows Eye Color Foundation Fragrance Lip Color Makeovers Male Skin Care Peels Pre-Event Prep Sensitive Skin Skin Care Skin Health Smile Sun Care Treatments Fillers Microneedling Post-Procedure Skin Care Neurotoxins Regenerative Aesthetics Skin Lifting Body Body Sculpting Breasts Butts Cellulite Hair Removal Hands + Nails Legs Pregnancy Find a Doctor Hair Bond Repair Celebrity Dry Hair Frizzy Hair Gray Hair Hair Color Hair Growth Hair Repair Scalp Health Styling + Tips Awards NB100 Awards 15th Annual Beauty Awards 2025 NewBeauty Readers’ Choice Awards Shopping Gift Guides Product Reviews NewBeauty Storefront Wellness Fitness GLP-1s Health Menopause About Us TESTTUBE Search for: Search HomeBodyHands + Nails The 10 Best Nail Colors for Your First Manicure of 2026 Three nail brand founders weigh in. Jessica Fields Published: Dec 15, 2025 IG: @townhouse/ A new year is almost here, and with it comes a fresh wave of nail trends. But before diving into what 2026 will bring, a fresh manicure is in order—and as expected, January’s nail colors don’t disappoint. “January always brings a return to clarity and calm, to fresh beginnings, and we’re seeing that reflected in nail color,” says Juanita Huber-Millet, founder and creative director of Townhouse. Soft shades are a given for the season, with sheer and milky polishes taking on a subtle update through glistening, shimmery finishes. While these shades feel perfect for January, they’re not the only options. Rich berries and near-black hues, like midnight and forest green, are just as appealing. To help guide you, we spoke with three nail brand founders about the best colors to wear in January. Ahead, the nail colors to know for the new year.