Ten Nail Looks for the Fall Season

There are two types of people: those who soak up every last drop of summer, refusing to pack away their swimsuits, and those who start pulling out their cozy sweaters and stocking up on pumpkin-flavored everything before August even ends.

As much as I like to think I’m a summer devotee, the moment September hits, I’m already daydreaming about the cozy fall season. From the crunch of crisp leaves underfoot to indulging in Halloween comfort movies and the joy of pumpkin picking with my family, fall has a special place in my heart.

As a beauty lover, I’m also eagerly anticipating all the Fall 2024 nail trends. I’m drawn to the deep, moody hues and the creative designs that Halloween inspires. September also brings along the back-to-school season which is the perfect time to experiment with a new nail trend. 

Every autumn brings its own wave of nail trends, and this year, I’ve put together a list of ten that are on my radar. Whether you’re looking for something easy to do at home or a design that requires a trip to the salon, there’s something here for everyone, no matter your skill level in nail art!

1. Apple Cider Nails

The latest nail trend is here—Apple Cider Nails! Thanks to Selena Gomez’s manicurist, Tom Bachik, we’ve been introduced to this stunning fall-inspired shade. It’s the perfect blend of orange, red, and brown, making it an ideal transition color from summer to fall.

For a flawless at-home manicure, try the shade “Cubana” from Lights Lacquer or “Bed Rock & Roll” by Essie.

2. Espresso Nails

Espresso nails are one of my absolute favorite fall trends, offering a perfect mix of sophistication and warmth that complements any outfit effortlessly. Inspired by the deep, rich tones of European espresso, these warm mocha shades infuse your look with a cozy yet bold energy that’s perfect for the season.

Want to nail this sleek, stylish look? Try “Espresso Your Inner Self” by OPI or “Brownie Points” by Holo Taco for that perfect coffee-inspired manicure.

3. Autumn Coquette Nails

A new nail trend this season is Autumn Coquette nails—an ultra-feminine style that embraces the coquette aesthetic with a seasonal twist. If you’re into the coquette trend that has taken social media by storm, featuring bows, dainty details, pearls, and pastels, you’ll love this autumn-inspired version.

The beauty of Autumn Coquette nails lies in how they reinvent the typically pastel-focused trend for fall. By incorporating richer, warmer tones, this style seamlessly transitions the delicate coquette vibe into the cozy autumn season. Here are some inspiration pics to show your nail artist if you want to try out Autumn Coquette nails:

4.  Tortoise Shell Nails

When I saw the tortoise shell nail look on Hailey Bieber last fall, I was instantly obsessed. The contrast between the deep brown and lighter caramel shades is absolutely stunning, making it the perfect design for anyone who wants to embrace the fall aesthetic without settling for a single solid color. This fun pattern is sure to get lots of compliments. Head to the salon and show them these pictures, or learn how to recreate the look at home with this article.

5. Sparkling, Muted Pastels

Dark nails aren’t for everyone, which is why I love this look. These nails feature soft, delicate colors like pastel greens, mint, orange, and baby blue, all with a touch of sparkle that adds a hint of glam without overpowering the look.

This is a fun and simple alternative to dark nails during the fall season. I also love how easy it is to recreate! Just grab a pastel nail polish like “Sleeping Bag” by Olive & June, and a sparkly top coat like “Set in Stones” by Essie.

6. Black Cherry Nails

Black Cherry nails are a fall staple. Recently, Kylie Jenner posted her black cherry mani-pedi, and I instantly loved the look! If you want a timeless nail look for the fall, this is the way to go. This classic dark color has been a go-to during the cooler months for decades and pairs perfectly with any outfit.

Some of my favorite black cherry shades are “155 Rouge Noir” by Chanel and “Black Cherry Chutney” by OPI.

7. Dark French Tips

A classic French manicure is timeless, but for fall, if you’re craving a touch of edginess, try a French manicure with dark-colored tips. This look is chic and versatile, combining elegance with a subtle hint of rebellion, making it the perfect way to add depth and drama to your style. Here are some inspiration pics for this type of look:

8. Navy Blue Nails

Speaking of classic, navy blue is one of those colors you can’t go wrong with in the cooler months. This deep shade is ideal for any occasion, as it pairs beautifully with both casual and elegant looks. It’s a go-to color for anyone looking to appear confident and sophisticated.

Achieve a simple navy blue manicure with the shade “Blindfold Me” by Ella+Mila or “902 Pied-de-Poule” by Dior.

9. Brown Swirl Nails

Brown Swirl nails are such a fun look for fall! The mix of warm tones with swirling designs creates a stunning marble-like effect that adds a unique twist to traditional solid colors. While this look can be done with any shade, the rich browns are especially perfect for capturing that cozy, autumn vibe. I especially love the two designs pictured below for this trend!

10. Animal Print Nails

A unique nail style for this fall is animal print nails. Every fall, leopard print seems to make a comeback in fashion—so why not in beauty as well? Whether you go for classic leopard spots, zebra stripes, or snakeskin patterns, these designs bring a playful and edgy vibe to your nails. They’re a great way to express your personality and make a bold statement.

Here are some inspiration pics to show your nail artist if you want to try out animal print nails:

As the seasons shift, so too do our beauty routines, and fall offers the perfect opportunity to experiment with nail trends that embody the cozy, autumnal spirit. Whether you’re drawn to rich, moody tones or prefer something more playful and intricate, this season invites you to explore new styles and embrace the change.

While transitioning from summer’s bright wardrobe to cozy fall layers can be challenging, there’s something special about indulging in a fresh manicure that reflects the beauty of the season. I hope you try one or more of these nail  looks this season!!