What comes to mind when you think of fun, winter activities? I bet sitting around a warm fireplace sipping hot cocoa is high on that list! Since it is still winter in most parts of the country, I wanted to come up with a beautiful dark mani to serve as a last hurrah before we head into brights for spring. This nail art design was inspired by the patterns found in wood planks. It sounds strange, I know, but it's easy to do and looks like a professional nail wrap when you're finished! Enjoy!

● Base coat (I love essie First Base)

● Black nail polish. I used essie nail polish in Licorice.

● Top coat. I'm a fan of Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Nail Coat.

● Cuticle oil (try The Body Shop Almond Nail & Cuticle Oil)

Step 1: Start with clean, manicured hands. Wipe nails thoroughly with a nail cleanser to free the nail bed of any dirt or oil.

Step 2: Apply a layer of base coat on one of your nails.

Step 3: Paint a thick coat of black polish on the nail.

Step 4: While the nail polish is still wet, take your bobby pin or dotting tool and trace out your design on the nail, cleaning the tool with acetone after each line is drawn. See photo for reference. (Here, you are taking away polish to create a negative space design. It's vital that you trace the design while polish is very wet).

Step 5: Repeat steps two through four until all your nails are painted.

Step 6: Top off the look with your favorite top coat and cuticle oil and you're good to go!

What's your favorite winter nail look? Spill in the comments below!

Photo: Kait Mosh