It’s that time of year again. Kids are going back to school, that occasional crisp chill is starting to re-enter the air, and our September social calendars are filling up fast. While the beginning of the final quarter of the year is the perfect time to purge your closet, set a new goal, or establish a fun hobby, it’s also a great time to sit back, relax, and invest a little time into your self care. As beauty lovers, one of our favorite ways to unwind is with a fresh manicure. Instead of repeating your favorite nail art, though, we recommend switching things up with a pretty seasonal manicure. Not sure where to start? Ahead, explore over a dozen September nail ideas that manicurists can’t get enough of for fall 2024.

Royal Blue Aura Nails

2024 has seen so many renditions of the popular aura manicure. For September, celebrity manicurist Julie Kandalec says to opt for deep fall colors offset with a lighter hue in the center. Take this royal blue and lavender aura manicure, for example.

Speaking of blue, Nailing Hollywood artist Rachel Joseph says that marine blue is a fantastic solid color for fall. “It’s a good transition into fall when you’re not ready to let go of summer blues yet,” she says, noting to simply opt for darker hues.

3D Gold Swirl Nails

3D nail accents have become a mainstay in nail salons near and far. For fall, Kandalec likes the ides of 3D gold swirls atop a sheer champagne glitter base, as shown above. “3D gold and isolated chrome nails like these are some of my favorites because they look so high end,” she exclaims.

Abstract Dusk Nails

For a moody September mani, consider this sponged-on abstract dusk nail look. “Simply sponge [navy and plum polishes atop a milky nude base] for a dreamy, ethereal look that is perfect for fall,” says celebrity nail artist Jin Soon Choi, founder of JINsoon.

Cool-Tone Animal Print Nails

Another way to rock leopard print on your tips is with a reimagined cool-toned palette. “Effortlessly transition from summer to fall with this easy and cool animal print nail art,” Choi says. “Neutral to medium tones with subdued undertones create a seamless seasonal shift.”

Dark Cherry Accent Nails

For a moodier red mani, go with deep cherry tones. You can use it to coat your nails from cuticle to tip or take Choi’s advice and opt for a mix of solid nails and accents in the shade. For this look, you’ll need a dotting tool and a fine-lining nail art brush.

Matte Black and Gold Nails

Matte nails don’t have to fully lack shine. With a matte metallic accent, you get the best of both worlds—just look at this matte black and gold mani. “Classy and rich and bold, matte black and gold chrome never gets old,” Malarkey says.

Matte Mauve Skittle Mani

Another demure manicure idea? A Skittle shift of mauve shades. “Mauve is such a versatile nail color,” Malarkey says. “Topped off with gold chrome and a matte top coat, it kick-starts sweater weather beautifully.”

Mixed Finish Earth Tone Nails

This photo perfectly illustrates how a glossy or matte top coat can totally transform a season nail look. The way Choi sees it, matte is the proper choice for September and autumn as a whole. “Mauve and taupe are exceptional blending partners with their pink, purple, and neutral tones which offer a subtle nod to both seasons,” she says. “They are soft and sophisticated and have enhanced appeal with a matte finish.”

Negative Space Color Block Nails

For a high-fashion September nail look, Kandalec says to get creative with negative space and color block designs. While this mani features straight lines, making it appear easy to DIY, for the crispest end look, you’ll likely want to hire a pro.