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A deep wine or classic navy will never go out of style, but it’s not a bad idea to consider more unexpected fall nail ideas this year. A less-conventional approach seems to be the general consensus among beauty influencers and pro nail artists this season.
Also on trend? Playful takes on French manis, earth tones, and neutrals with a twist, and even some greens (brat summer lives on, it seems). “Fall will merge nature and science for a versatile duality—think muted earth tones mixed with optimistic bright finishes that evoke a futuristic feel,” says Jan Arnold, CND cofounder and nail expert. “The colors we predict will be most popular are apricot-like peachy orange, dark teal, yellow sage, burgundy, and mauve.”
Not into neutrals? There are plenty of options for you. “If I could pick one trend that’s going to be huge, and one trend only, it’d be green nails,” Juli Russell, Sally Beauty DIY nail expert, tells Glamour. She points to aura nails and bold chrome as other trends to watch for. “Aura nails have been the rising star this season and will continue to shine bright.”
In other words, these aren’t your basic fall nail trends. Should you feel so inclined to pair all your oversize sweaters and fall fragrances with a mani worth skipping gloves for, we rounded up the best fall nail ideas that have taken residence in our beauty editors’ saved tabs in preparation for fall. Get ready to screenshot!
Earth Tones
Earth tones? For fall? Groundbreaking—but actually! This is a refreshingly chic take on the nothing-but-neutrals trend.
Pretty Pistachio
Brat green may have been trending this summer, but we’re calling it now: Pistachio green is about to become its fall-friendly successor. DIY with Color Dept Kiwi Juice Nail Polish.
Cinnamon Latte
Latte nails, but a little sweet. Yummy and chic. DIY with Nailboo’s Espresso Elegance Gel.
Moody Mix and Match
Can’t choose between moody brown and earthy orange? Now you don’t have to. Nail creator Maritza Williams created this look using Olive & June’s deep plum To Me, You Are Perfect press-ons and their burnt-orange terra-cotta polish Flower Pot.
Chestnut Gradient
Another ideal option for the indecisive mani lover? A chic chestnut gradient look.
Vanilla Latte
Latte nails meet vanilla French. It’s a manicure match made in heaven.
Mocha Marble
Apparently, coffee is trending when it comes to fall nails. We’re not mad about it!
Tortoise Tips
Tortoiseshell nails are kind of a fall staple; it’s a sign that nature is healing. As is the weather.
Fall Florals
Simple flower nail designs are a year-round thing, OK? DIY with Nailboo’s Chestnut Chills and Espresso Elegance.
Dark Teal
If brat, pistachio, and chrome green are still too Wicked Witch of the West-coded for you, this trending teal green just might be a better fit.
Art Inspired
A little bit French, a little bit pistachio, this unique mani is everything we love about fall nails!
Hot Chocolate
Match your mani to your favorite fall beverage of choice.
French Press
Repeat after me: Brown isn’t boring. Just look how chic this coffee-inspired French style is.