This Olive-Toned Manicure is a Must-Try Holiday Nail Trend

When you think about holiday nails, your mind probably goes straight to the usual—glittering gold, candy cane stripes, red, or icy blues that mimic winter frost. While these classic choices are always a hit, the year 2024 introduced a nail trend that’s more subtle yet undeniably sophisticated: the olive-toned manicure.

The manicure trend takes inspiration from the muted, elegant hues of olives and their association with martinis, giving it a name that’s just as chic as the look itself—“Dirty Martini Nails.” 

This trend is a refreshing break from the traditional bright and bold holiday nails. Unlike the glitz and boldness often seen during the festive season, this nail style leans into understated beauty. The “Dirty Martini” nail is sleek, versatile, and perfect for anyone who wants to make a stylish statement without going over the top.

But what makes the olive-toned nail trend so popular? How can you make it your own? And why are beauty addicts talking about it? Let’s break it all down, from its growing appeal to some nail inspirations for this holiday season.

What are Olive Green Nails?

Olive green nails are exactly what they sound like—nail designs inspired by the soft, earthy tones of olives. The color is typically a blend of green, grey, and brown undertones, giving it a muted yet rich appearance. It’s stylish and looks fabulous with almost any outfit or occasion.

While it’s subtle, the “Dirty Martini” manicure still makes a statement, making it the perfect choice for those who prefer a classy, low-maintenance holiday look.

Why are olive green nails worth trying this holiday season?

There are many reasons you should consider trying out olive green nails. Think of its timeless appeal and the rich shade of olive.  

• Unique yet timeless

Unlike traditional holiday nail colors like red, gold, or silver, olive green is unexpected yet surprisingly timeless. It’s a shade that feels fresh but also chic enough to transcend trends.

• Pairs with everything

Olive green is one of those magical colors that works well with almost any outfit. Whether you’re wearing a cozy sweater, a sleek black dress, or festive sequins, olive green nails will enhance your look without clashing.

• Inspired by popular culture

The rise of the “Dirty Martini” manicure ties into the cocktail culture that’s been trending recently. Olives, martinis, and elegant aesthetics have become popular symbols of sophistication, and this nail trend reflects that vibe.

How to achieve the olive-toned manicure at home

The great thing about this trend is that it’s easy to recreate at home with just a few tools. Follow these steps to nail the look yourself:

What You’ll Need:

• Olive green nail polish (choose matte or glossy, depending on your style)
• Base coat and topcoat
• Nail file and buffer
• Cuticle oil
• Optional: Nail art brushes, glitter polish, or stickers for accents

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Prep your nails

Start by filing your nails into your desired shape and buffing the surface for a smooth finish. Apply cuticle oil and gently push back your cuticles.

2. Apply base coat

A good base coat not only protects your nails but also helps the polish last longer without chipping.

3. Paint your nails

Apply your chosen olive green nail polish in thin, even coats. Two coats are usually enough to achieve an opaque look.

4. Seal the look

Finish with a glossy or matte topcoat to protect your manicure and enhance its appearance.

5. Optional: Add a Nail Art

If you’re feeling adventurous, use nail art brushes or stickers to add fun accents like gold outlines, glitter highlights, or mini olive branch designs.

Olive Green Nails Inspiration

Olive green nails are trendy and super easy to love! This cool, earthy color works for any occasion and goes with almost anything. Whether you like simple or fun designs, there’s so much you can do with it. Here are some inspirations for you to try out:

For a clean look, stick to a single shade of olive. This option is ideal for nail trend beginners who want to keep things simple yet classy.

A high-shine topcoat gives olive nails a polished look. It’s perfect for festive evenings when you want your nails to sparkle subtly.

For a more modern, edgy take on the trend, go for a matte finish. This version feels contemporary and pairs beautifully with cozy winter outfits.

Put a twist on the classic French manicure by swapping out the traditional white tips for olive ones. Pair this with a neutral base for a refined yet playful design.

Who says olive can’t sparkle? Add a touch of gold or silver glitter to one or two accent nails or use it as a top layer for a dazzling finish.

Get creative with olive-inspired nail designs. Think tiny martini glasses, olive branches, or geometric patterns for a trendy, artistic look.

Photo: Instagram/ellejapan_beauty