Which fall nail color will you try this year? As the temperatures drop, we’re swapping warm, beachy sunset tones for deep midnight hues. “Fall is the season to cozy up—it represents comfort and nostalgia,” says nail artist Hang Nguyen, author of Nail art deck“It’s the perfect time to be inspired by colors and art that convey a sense of warmth as the weather gets cooler.”
For Jin Soon Choi, founder of JINSOON, fall’s trendy nail polishes are inspired by both the runways and nature. “People are inspired by the changing leaves and the weather, but I get inspiration from the campaigns and fashion shows I work on,” she says. “I’m lucky to be able to see the latest fashion designs and color palettes firsthand.” Still, Choi says fall is ultimately about deep, moody and earthy hues – although there might be an outlier or two in 2024.
Whether short or long, nail health is a key factor this fall, and a manicure is about preparation—think flawless cuticles—not just the color on the nail. “A clean manicure with a natural polish is a great way to remove discoloration. I recommend focusing on the health of your nails before opting for dramatic nail polish colors,” says Mazz Hanna, CEO of Nailing Hollywood. Also on trend? A matte finish that gives this season’s most popular polishes a cozy, luxurious feel.
As with any manicure, nail care is of utmost importance. Celebrity nail artist Julie Kandalec loves a water-free manicure so the color lasts longer. “They’re becoming more common these days,” says Kandalec. “If a nail artist reaches for a bowl of warm, soapy water, expect your nails to swell and the polish to chip more quickly.”
Here, some of the industry’s best nail artists reveal the fall nail polish colors that will dominate the cooler months. From seductive hues to glamorous metallics, there’s something for everyone.
Ballet Pink
“Essie’s Sheer Fantasy is the perfect neutral pink for anyone who just wants a clean, shiny nail,” says nail artist Steph Stone. “It offers less coverage than other neutral pink polishes and gives your nails a really naturally healthy, ‘radiant’ look.”
Earthy green
Olive was on the list of nearly every nail artist we interviewed for this story. “It’s neutral enough to match any outfit but adds a playful element,” says Goldstein, who loves CND’s Vinylux in Cap and Gown. Stone opts for JINSoon’s Green Clay, a lighter olive shade. “This color palette is easily overlooked, but once you try it, you’ll be surprised how quickly it becomes a favorite,” she raves.
Foggy morning blues
Although fall is usually associated with darker hues, there’s something to be said for using a lighter shade as the seasons change. Chanel’s Le Vernis in Muse is a favorite of Goldstein’s for its atmospheric appeal. “This color reminds me of early misty mornings in fall, especially in Northern California,” she says. Bring in the dreaminess of a cool beach day with a light blue/gray hybrid.
Spicy Burgundy
Fall’s reds are inspired by foliage and spices, and the best burgundy shades reflect this season-specific combination. For a solid starting point, Stone and Goldstein recommend Chanel’s Bois Des Isles. “It has the perfect combination of red, brown and orange undertones,” says Goldstein. “It’s intense and rich, but not too dark, making it one of my favorite colors for fall.”
Warm brown tones
“Warm browns create a cozy, comfortable feeling that’s ideal when wearing sweaters,” says Nyguen. Whether it’s cinnamon, milk chocolate or light roasted coffee, Hanna likes to finish with a matte top coat to make the shade appear even warmer.
Eggshell white
Eggshell colors are one of the most gorgeous shades, but to get them right, a perfect finish is essential. “I’m a huge fan of cream eggshell colors for fall, especially with a matte top coat,” says Goldstein, pointing to Color Department’s Coconut Water. “It reminds me of soft cashmere.”
Bright pink
Barbiecore is just not going away. Although some people avoid brighter nail polishes in the fall, Stone likes to ignore the rules and will apply a few coats of Gucci Vernis a Ongles in Valentina Fuchsia – aka the perfect pink. “Pink is forever and this bright pink will add a youthful pop of color to your fall wardrobe.”
Cool matte black
Inspired by the Christian Cowan Fall/Winter 2024 show she worked on, Kandalec loves black nails with a matte finish for the cooler months. “The matte finish looks chic and leathery,” she says. “Perfect for fall.” She used CND’s Black Pool and Matte Shellac Top Coat.
Metallic shine
“I love metallic tips,” says Kandalec. “It’s a subtle way to spice up your manicure.” You can go for gold in cool tones, warm tones, yellow tones, gunmetal silver, etc. – there’s a color for everyone.
Bright Orange
Fall doesn’t have to be all muted earth tones or moody colors. Try some of the fun, bright hues you’ve been using all summer to add some cheer to your fingertips. “Bright shimmering orange is perfect as a transition color from summer to fall,” says Kandalec. “(It) adds a Christmassy touch in the winter.”
