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While this fall’s accessory trends might be all about suede and studs, the most impactful compliment to your coziest cable-knit sweater is actually a killer fall manicure.
Whether your fall calendar includes cozy wine nights on the couch or days blocked off for your annual apple-picking excursions, your fall manicure should reflect the once-a-year rich and vibrant colors the season comes with. “For this season, you’ll definitely be seeing lots of earthy tones. Think rich chocolate, rust orange, olive green, and deep red,” says Sally Hansen Global Partner Hannah Lee. “This is a big change from the vibrant neons and metallics that have been super popular for summer. Something that’s also sticking around through the season are sheer, natural shades for a barely-there look.”
Get your nails prepped for your upcoming seasonal activities with these 11 moody nail ideas for fall.
1. Moscow Mule Nails
Source: @themaniclub
This ain’t your grandma’s manicure—not anymore, that is. A fall-friendly take on the chrome nail trend, these copper nails (or Moscow Mule nails, according to TikTok), serve as an elevated style for those who don’t like to stray too far from the classics.
2. Iced Vanilla Latte
Source: @matejanova
These adorable white squiggles mixed with a warm brown are an adorable mani option for fall. I’m obsessed with the sleek and minimal design for a unique take on the espresso nail trend.
2. Neutral Florals
Source: @nailpolishedlife
By mirroring the warm brown hues of autumn leaves, these neutral floral nails give exactly what we need for fall adventuring. Paired with some fun pops of gold and burnt orange, this manicure is the perfect accessory for snapping a hand pic with your apple cider.
3. Midnight Merlot
Source: @gel.bymegan
If you want to achieve the ultimate quiet-luxury manicure, merlot nails are just the color. A classic for fall, this deep burgundy shade evokes comfort and sophistication—not to mention they’ll match your post-dinner glass of red perfectly.
4. Blonde Toirtoiseshell
Source: @lolo.nailedit
Looking for a unique take on fall colors? Try your hand at tortoiseshell nails, which blend the season’s warm amber, brown, and cream tones together create the ultimate fall mani.
5. Half-Moons
Source: @matejanova
These half-moon nails are a playful take on the classic neutral manicure. Pair them with a chunky thick-knit sweater and gold rings to really make the cool-toned design pop.
6. Touch of Gold
Source: @lolo.nailedit
We all love a bit of sparkle, and this squiggle nail design is the perfect combination of chic minimalism and classic glamor.
7. Cool Gray
Source: @paintedbyjools
ICYMI: gray nails are the new “it girl” shade, à la Alix Earle. The cool-toned, high-shine gray are the perfect detour from the deep brown shades that are popular this season.
8. Sangria Swooshes
Source: @nailpolishedlife
Opt for deep purple swooshes painted over a barely-there neutral for an unexpected, statement-making mani.
9. Autumn Gradient
Source: @gelsbybry
Nothing screams “fall” quite like a gradient nail. If you’re a DIY mani enthusiast, these gradient nails pack the same punch as nail art, but are way more achievable at home.
10. Half-Tips
Source: @kimberley_oates
Any version of the classic French tip is inherently chic—especially these unexpected half-tips. Opt for a neutral base and create a pop of seasonal color with a half-tip in a deep burgundy or chocolate brown.