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When it comes to looking polished (literally) this festive season, your nail colour can make all the difference. While some shades add instant youth and luminosity to the hands, others have the opposite effect, emphasising sallowness, redness, creping and uneven tones.

To find out which shades best flatter mature hands – and which are better to dodge – we spoke toCharlotte Lowe, nail artist and OPI Education Brand Managerwho shared her expert tips on the colours, finishes and shapes that make hands look their most elegant. Keep scrolling to find your perfect Christmas party manicure.

Classic reds never age – but nudes might

According to Lowecertain shades have a timeless appeal that transcends seasonal trends. ‘Classic reds and deep plum shades are timeless choices that draw attention to the nails rather than the age of the hands,’ she explains.

It’s partly because the rich, intense colour draws the eye – but also because red tones tend to brighten the skin, bringing warmth and contrast to paler or uneven tones. Somewhat counterintuitively, nudes can actually wash out pale skin tones and emphasise any blemishes.

Skip chunky glitter and switch to shimmer

While it’s tempting to go all-out sparkle for party season, Lowe says heavy glitter can actually draw attention to dryness and texture on the hands. ‘For those conscious of the age of their hands, it’s best to avoid full-on chunky glitter. Instead, opt for pearlescent or shimmer finishes for a flattering, luminous effect,’ she advises.

Soft light-reflective particles in shimmers and pearlescents bounce light off the skin, creating a diffused, youthful glow – a subtle trick that’s similar to using a highlighter on the face. Lowe’s festive favourite? OPI’s Berry and Bright, a delicate, festive shimmer that adds radiance without overwhelming the nails.

Shape and length matter

Even the most flattering shade can look dated if the nail shape doesn’t suit your hands. ‘Nail length and shape come down to personal preference,’ says Lowe, ‘but wearing your nails slightly longer in an almond shape can help elongate the fingers and hands, which can draw attention away from areas of concern.’

Almond and oval shapes visually lengthen the hand, softening knuckles and veins, while harsh square tips can make shorter fingers look stubby. If you prefer to keep nails short, try a softly rounded edge and a high-shine topcoat to keep the finish fresh.

Try statement nails over complicated nail art

‘For a touch of festive glam,’ says Lowe, ‘create a statement nail by painting your ring finger in glitter.’ A single accent nail looks intentional and chic, rather than overdone, and can instantly elevate a simple manicure for Christmas events.

Play with trend-led details

Not all nail art has to be complicated or loud to look modern. ‘Nails are a wonderful way to express your personality,’ says Lowe. ‘Polka dots are a major trend right now, and you can easily create the look using a bobby pin or toothpick with a highly pigmented shade like OPI Alpine Snow over your favourite nail colour.’

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