One of the best parts of the changing of the seasons is the opportunity to change up your nails. It’s always fun to get festive with a new manicure design that matches the aesthetic of the season. Where for your summer nails you may have tried out pastels, bright French tip designs, chrome over your favorite summer colors or fruit-themed nail art. And for fall, you’re probably ready to rock the dark hues and color palette of fall foliage, try out the trendy tortoise designs and gold accents. But with so many nail designs out there, how do you choose? That’s why we put together our favorite fall nail ideas of 2024 that will get your nails ready for your pumpkin spiced lattes and trips to the apple orchard.

Why change up your nails for fall?
As mentioned above, it’s always nice to change up your manicure with every season. While ultimately you can do any nail color or design you want any time of year, coordinating it to the season will help you feel more festive and excited for that time of year.

Further, studies show that having your nails done can do wonders for boosting your mood. It can help you feel more relaxed, revitalized and overall in a more happy mood. It’s a small thing you can do to practice self-care, which we know is important for your overall mental and physical health.

Studies also show that different colors can impact your mood. For example, green is known to promote feelings of calm and relaxation, whereas red can be associated with passion and attraction. When you look down at your nails and see a certain color, it can help boost your mood with the feelings associated with that color.

9 best fall manicure ideas of 2024
Keep reading for our favorite fall manicures and fall nail designs that not only look pretty, but can even be done yourself at home if you want to skip the salon.

Fall manicure idea: Dark red nails
Dark red nails and deep purple hues have always been popular colors for fall, and that includes nail colors. If you’re looking for something simple, just paint two coats of one of these hues, and seal with a top coat. No nail art is necessary, and your fall manicure will still look seasonal and ready for fall. We specifically love cherry cola nails, a deep, reddish-brown shade that’s been making its way around the social media the past year.

Fall manicure idea: Shades of brown
Neutrals are in all year round, but especially during fall. We see lots of different brown hues, from rich chocolate brown to creamy beige to pretty taupe. The best part about painting on a brown-toned mani is it goes with just about everything — you don’t have to worry about it clashing with your outfit.

Fall manicure idea: Fall chrome nails
We saw chrome nails boom this year in the summer and spring, with the pearl-like powder being applied over pretty pinks and creamy whites. Not to fear, though, chrome nails aren’t going anywhere, even with fall near. You can easily do a fall chrome mani with shades of green, brown, gold or even burgundy. It spices up the typical solid-color manicure, but is still able to be done at home. Watch the tutorial below by @MarlaKris on YouTube to see how to do DIY chrome nails.

Fall manicure idea: Tortoise shell nails
Tortoise is back and better than ever! It truly is the perfect print for fall, with its rich golden and brown hues. Plus, there’s a variety of different ways you can try out the style, from tortoise French tips to a tortoise accent nail. Watch the video below by @Aminaoui on YouTube to see how to do DIY tortoise nails.

Fall manicure idea: Animal print nails
If tortoise nails aren’t your thing, we’ve still got you covered. Animal print in general is always a huge trend for fall, and there are many different prints to choose from like cheetah print nails to zebra print or leopard nails.

Fall manicure idea: Fall floral nails
Who says flowers are just for spring? Floral nails are oh-so-pretty and chic, and the best part, the design can be done with just about any color you could want. For fall, use browns, greens, oranges and even dark blues.

Fall manicure idea: Pumpkin nails
We know fall is the time for pumpkin patches and pumpkin spice lattes, so why not do some pumpkin nail art, too? It’s so festive for the season, and can work for both Halloween or just your everyday fall manicure. You can get creative with it, from the shades of orange you choose, adding gold glittery accents and more. Watch the YouTube tutorial below by @TranquiliteLondon to learn how to do easy DIY pumpkin nail art.

Fall manicure idea: Checkered or plaid nails

You’re sure to see lots of plaid flannels and shackets during fall, and you hop on the trend with plaid nails! Checkered nails are also fun and festive for fall, and there are so many different ways you can incorporate the print into your manicure. Plus, it’s easy-peasy to do at home — just watch the TikTok by @Beelonails to see how.

Fall manicure idea: Fall French tips
If you’re not one to stray away from the classic French manicure, but still want to feel festive for fall, don’t worry: you can have both! French manicures are so versatile, and can be done with any color. Just change out your current French tip shade for a more fall-toned hue.