15 Fall Nail Designs to Inspire Your Next Mani

Whether it’s the cozy sweaters, seasonal lattes, or warm colors, there’s something extra special about getting a fresh fall manicure. And when you have new nail designs to try, it’s even more of a thrill. From simple designs to intricate art and unexpected French manicures, we’ve gathered inspired ideas for everyone to try this fall. Even better, you can try and of the nail art looks below in the season’s trendiest nail polish shades. According to Juli Russell, DIY nail expert for Sally Beauty, the season’s shades are rich reds like tomato and raspberry, deep gold, and aventurine—a deep forest green. Now, all you have to do is keep scrolling for your new favorite fall nail designs.

’70s Croc

There’s something so cool and unexpected about neutrals and pastels mixed with a classic fall texture like croc. “The earthy tones combined with funky patterns perfectly capture the retro yet timeless vibe of fall fashion, making it a standout trend,” says Russell.

Caramel Latte

Expect this cozy trend to stick around another fall. “Inspired by the warm and cozy vibes of a latte, this style features a brown base color with a lighter brown aura or halo effect, creating a soft and blended appearance,” says Russell. “The design often includes a cream swirl in the center, mimicking the look of milk swirling in a cup of coffee.”

Smokeshow

If you gravitate towards deep black, browns, and greys this time of year, try this gradient nail look, which Russell points out can be dressed up or down.

It’s also easy to DIY: “Start with a deep, dark base color. Use a makeup sponge to gently dab black nail polish onto the tips, blending it toward the center to create a gradient effect,” advises Russell. “Repeat with additional layers if necessary and finish with a matte or glossy top coat.”

All Angles

A greige base is the ideal backdrop for both a reverse French and angled tips, as seen in this look from nail salon Bellacures.

Bejeweled

For a runway-inspired manicure, look to the Sergio Hudson show, where celebrity nail artist and KISS brand ambassador Gina Edwards created this regal, sparkly manicure. “Denim and velvet makes way for ’70s glam, inspired by iconic women Diana Ross and Diahann Carroll. I envisioned an opulent nail with faceted stones with gold accents to reflect that era,” she says.

Blue Tortoise

Russell loves this twist on the classic tortoiseshell pattern for fall. To get the look, “Start with a sheer or semi-translucent blue polish. Then, layer different shades of blue, brown, and gray using a small brush or a detail brush to create the spotted tortoiseshell (or ostrich-like) pattern. Finish with a glossy top coat to enhance the marbled effect.” You can also use a kit like FingerPaints Blooming Gel Kit to help create the pattern.

Pumpkin Spice Chrome

Consider this elevated take on the holiday-inspired mani if you’re thinking ahead to Halloween. “Pumpkin spice chrome nails feature a warm, pumpkin orange base, topped with a soft chrome finish,” says Russell, who recommends China Glaze “That’ll Peach You” as the base shade.

Moons and Stars