Does anyone else feel like the holiday season never fails to seriously challenge one’s organizational skills/patience/sanity? I’m certainly in that boat. No amount of early gift buying and careful planning can save me from feeling frazzled during the days approaching Christmas. When this happens, there’s only one solution for me—
Meditation.
Err, I meant…Manicures! While I don’t scoff at sitting quietly and tuning in, I just enjoy painting my nails while doing so. A fresh mani helps me feel approximately 20% less of a hot mess, and it’s a simple way to dress up my look. Plus, glancing down at a beautiful color on my hands instantly lifts my spirits. My husband may never understand my spontaneous nail painting “even when you don’t have an event,” but I’m sure I’m not the only one who subscribes to the magic of this self-care ritual.
If you’re like me—or if you do have a specific outing that requires a beautiful manicure—check out these stunning, holiday-ready nail polish shades from our favorite 5-free brands.
Best 5-Free Vegan & Cruelty-Free Holiday Nail Polish
When You Need to Feel Like a Queen
21 Nefertiti by Habit Cosmetics
This shimmer-finish shade is contemporary, elegant, and glamorous—and it will complement just about any holiday frock. It’s guaranteed to help you feel as regal as you are.
If You Have Nat King Cole & Bing Crosby on Repeat
This classic red is as timeless as those gold ornaments you inherited from your great-grandparents. Wear it when your neighborhood is full of drunk-looking blow-up Santas and you need to class things up for your own sanity.
When You Want a Bit of Backbone in Your Polish—and Something Long-wear
Promising to stay faithful for at least 10 days, this deep wine shade is here to help you channel your inner goddess if family gatherings are more of a fracas than a festive gathering. Say “Toodles” to getting overly stressed and jumping into the fray.
If You’re Weary of Red & Green
17 Deep Sea by Habit Cosmetics
Hanukkah celebrations may have come and gone for this year, but it’s always the right time to celebrate the beauty of blue. This stinking sapphire is luxury in a bottle.
If Your Holidays Will Be Spent Whispering Sweet Nothings to Your Santa Baby
The Girl with The Most Cake NCLA Beauty
Unapologetically girly and sparkly, this full-coverage lacquer is a gloriously fun shade to wear while cuddling up on the couch with your SO, sipping hot cocoa, and watching the logs on the fire.
If You’re Feeling Festive but Want Something Unexpected
A matte green is a chic yet unconventional choice for anyone who’s anything but basic. The velvety finish is sure to garner attention.
If You Want to Ring in the New Year with Style
Do you make New Years Resolutions? I like to set a theme for the year (inspired by Juhea’s word-of-the-year). I like to keep my themes rather light and fun, and this new year, I want to enjoy, explore, and elevate my personal style. This delicate, pearly shade is just the thing for ringing in the new year with flair and beauty. Cheers!
Do you change your nail polish during the holiday season? Let us know your favorite holiday shade in the comments below!
Related: 6 Nail Polish Brands That Are Chic, NonToxic & Changing Mani As We Know it
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10 Best 5-Free Nail Polish Brands
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Photo: Respective brands