There’s no denying that 2023 has been the year that nails have reigned supreme in the beauty world. Whether it’s celebrities stepping out on the red carpet with head-turning manicures or Instagram feeds packed with the chicest nail art, there has been an abundance of nail inspiration wherever you look. We’ve had spring’s milky nails, summer’s vibrant chrome manicures, autumn’s cinnamon-spiced tips, and now? Winter’s biggest nail trend is emerging as one to watch—the oud manicure.
Coined by celebrity manicurist Harriet Westmoreland, oud manicures are a shift towards darkier, sultrier shades as the weather cools. And they’re incredibly sophisticated. In fact, team Marie Claire UK has been trying out some of the best oud manicure looks over the past few weeks.
Even Executive Beauty Editor, Shannon Lawlor, has given the trend a go—and she has only strayed from her usual milky manicure twice in the whole of 2023. Her verdict? She's had so many compliments on her oud mani that she's actually considering one for her wedding nails next year. And Senior Health Editor, Ally Head has also been won over by the trend.
Here’s everything you need to know about oud nails, and how to recreate them at home.
What is an oud manicure?
Unlike the milky pastels and bold neon shades that dominated our social feeds earlier this year, oud nails are all about deep, dark, resinous hues. “Oud is originally derived from the tropical agar tree in India, so any dark, woody and resin-like wintry shades are perfect for the look,” explains celebrity session manicurist, Ami Streets. “Dark browns, greys and blacks are the shades to select. And if you want to add extra dimension and interest, iridescent and metallic textures in the same colour ways also work well.”
If you typically go for more neutral nail colour, then there are ways to incorporate the trend more subtly too. “A super-deep cherry red is a great alternative option for this trend,” suggests international nail artist, Julia Diogo. “Micro French tips would also work amazingly—use a nude base that suits your individual skin tone then pair it with a thin oud tip.”
Oud manicure inspiration
Classic Oud
This deep onyx shade is so slick and glossy that you can almost see your own reflection in it. So chic.
Black Cherry
Julia created this sophisticated dark cherry manicure by layering a deep red over a black base.
Purple Rain
OPI’s Lincoln Park After Dark is a cult classic that works so well for the oud manicure trend—it’s a beautiful, ultra-deep aubergine shade.
Mahogany Sparkle
This deep cinnamon brown shade is elevated with a subtle peek of gold glitter at the cuticles.
Copper Shine
A slightly lighter and brighter take on the oud trend, this chocolate brown hue has a hint of copper shimmer running through it for a luxurious feel.
Slick Swirls
Opting for an oud-inspired shade alongside negative space nail art is a great way to dip your toe into wearing darker colours.
Recreate cinnamon nails at home
There are so many great nail colours to recreate this look at home. For a really luxurious finish, we'd recommend applying two layers for an opaque effect. And to achieve that “super-slick” oud manicure, Ami suggests finishing the look with a high-shine gloss topcoat and oil. “Layering on scented skincare products that emulate oud will also create a more luxurious manicure experience,” Ami explains.
