Beauty

7 Holiday 2019 Nail Polish Colors That Are *Actually* Unexpected

Nearly every nail polish brand, from Essie to Orly to OPI, released a holiday collection for 2019 that involved a gold or silver shade. They were all beautiful, of course — it's hard to go wrong with a shimmery classic like that — but chances are, thanks to their ubiquity this time of year, you probably already own (and might already be wearing) those festive shades. If that's the case, it's likely you're ready for a new holiday nail polish color to try that's unexpected (but will still work with all of your holiday 'fits, of course).

Should that be so, you're in luck — because those same brands also created plenty of colors that don't involve red or gold to help you switch things up this season. Whether that means trading your glittering silver for a pretty baby blue or swapping your go-to rouge for metallic pink, it'll add an unexpected element to any party look that's hard to achieve with traditional holiday shades. And since these hues aren't quite so seasonal, they'll transition easily into other times of the year (aka you'll get more bang for your buck).

So keep scrolling for five colors you should try this season (and where to shop them) — after seeing these, you might just want to ditch your classic holiday nail polish shades for good.

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Baby Blue

Pastels may not be the first shades that come to mind for the holidays, but baby blue gives the perfect wintry vibe that's a great alternative to the typical silver holiday mani.

OPI's 2019 Hello Kitty collection was a pretty mix of pastel shades, proving that winter, not spring, is actually the best time to try out a sweet hue.

Take a cue from Paintbox's nail polish duo and complement your baby blue with pastel pink. Not only will it keep things fun, it provides you with multiple different manicure options — and whether you opt to alternate colors or go all out with some nail art, it's sure to provide an unexpected result.

Black

If red is your go-to for holiday parties, why not try out something moodier this year? A deep black nail polish will provide a beautiful contrast against rich fabrics like velvet and playful details like sequins.

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So black is the only color in your holiday wardrobe — why not stick to the shade with your manicures as well? Try out Orosa's jet-black hue, which is cruelty free, vegan, and 14 free.

If you can't do without at least a *little* festivity, opt for ILNP's "Missed Calls" shade. Its holographic sparkle is fun, but not over the top, and will serve as the perfect shimmery accent to your holiday looks.

Shimmery Teal

Still want to wear a shade that's somewhat in the "holiday" color family? Swap your classic green for teal, and make it shimmery. Its rich hue is surprisingly versatile, and will look just as good with a LBD as it will with a red power suit or golden gown.

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Cote's pearlized teal green formula is a beautiful alternative to pine green shades that's sure to make a statement.

Made with Ciaté London's Geology formula, this mermaid-like nail polish is quick-drying with a high-gloss finish so you get an easy DIY mani that comes with stunning color and high shine.

Chocolate Brown

Brown and beige are color trends still going strong in fashion, and they've made their way into beauty now, too. While it may not automatically be your first choice for a holiday nail color, just imagine it paired with an equally luxe brown velvet dress or suit — and don't be surprised if you're immediately convinced.

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If that doesn't sell you, the inspiration behind this nail polish probably will. According to the product description, this shade is named after the founder of Sprinkles Cupcakes: "I live for sugary treats and whenever there is a Sprinkles cupcake in front of me, I literally cannot resist. I had to name this chocolatey shade after Candace, the queen of sweet indulgence!" wrote Olive & June's founder and CEO, Sarah Gibson Tuttle.

You could also opt for a more subtle shade, like Deborah Lippmann's "Been Around The World," for an elegant hue that won't distract from your carefully curated holiday looks.

Metallic Pink

Not quite ready to give up your reds, but still want to branch out? Go with a feminine metallic pink that looks festive, but not in an obvious way.

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Use Marc Jacobs Beauty's hi-shine duo to create a look that's completely unexpected, like a French manicure using gray and pink.

Or, embrace the color wholeheartedly with this shimmery fuchsia from Essie's Intergalactic Metals Collection.

Navy

Deeper hues like burgundy are a go-to this time of year, so complement them with a deep nail polish shade like navy.

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Pair your sleek black outfits with a deep navy blue this season for a chic and unexpectedly elegant combination.

The smoky blue shade of this 8 free formula is a sophisticated alternative to black if you want just a hint of color.

Purple

Tired of all your burgundy hues? Opt for a similar but more statement-making color like purple.

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This dark plum shade is understated yet stunning. Embrace a whole *lewk* by pairing it with brightly colored jewelry and let the rest of your outfit take a backseat.

You don't have to go for a deep purple if darker hues aren't your thing; instead, choose a simple mauve that looks luxe without being too attention grabbing.

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