More than any other season, fall is defined by style. Chunky sweaters, knee-high boots, and layers on layers (on layers). The second a crisp wind blows, I crave knitwear and scarves. And though temps are still high in many places, you can get into the autumn spirit by embracing the fall nail trends we’re obsessing over in 2024.
Fall nail trends are the easiest—and chicest—way to embrace the comfy-cozy mood. There’s something for everyone. You can take the neutral and chocolate tones route that reflects the season’s moody color palette. Or, you can go bold with textural trends like chrome and 3D. Every visit to the salon is a choose-your-own-adventure affair. To get the inside scoop on the emerging fall nail trends, I reached out to Molly Romah, head nail artist at Chillhouse, for her take on what’s hot this season.
Featured image from our interview with Cyndi Ramirez by Belathée Photography.
10 Fall Nail Trends to Inspire Your Next Salon Visit
Social media is abuzz with creative coverage of fall nail trends. Inspiration abounds at every turn. With each post, there’s something new to try and autumnal vibes to capture. Whether you’re looking for manicure photos to show your nail tech or trends to DIY, ahead are the freshest fall nails to change up your look. Read on to get the best fall nail trends right at your fingertips.
1. Cherry Mocha
This nail trend makes its way back into the spotlight every fall and somehow never gets old. Maybe it’s the red nail theory or the stylish yet classy vibe red nails can give off. Whatever the motivation, I always lean into darker, bolder colors during the autumn months. Going with this darker red is always a safe and elegant option.
2. Tonal Taupe
Taupe is an earthy shade that aligns well with the autumn color scheme. Choosing a taupe complementary to your skin tone can elevate your look while keeping your fall nails neutral if bold styles and new trends aren’t your go-to. You can always switch up the style of your taupe nails by adding chrome or keeping them matte.
3. Coffee Tortoise Shell
This may be arguably one of my favorite fall nail trends. Tortoiseshell fashion seems to weave its way in and out of many trends during fall due to its warm color scheme and subtle pattern. I’ve also seen quite a few iterations of this trend emerge already, including tortoiseshell French tips.
4. Negative Space
“Negative space manicures can be symmetrical, off-center, geometric, or oddly shaped,” says Romah. These nails appeal to the minimalists among us and can be done on both short and longer sets, making them adaptable for a variety of nail types. The negative space look also highlights the natural health of your nails with the complements of sophisticated shapes.
5. Colored French Tips
French tips are a year-round classic for any occasion, and these colored tips are always a fabulous option for spicing up the style we know and love. During the fall months, leaning toward a deep brown, red, or navy blue can help match the tones of the season and the shifting seasonal fashion palate.
6. Deep Green
As we transition out of “brat” summer, deep green has taken over the fashion sphere. This includes deep, evergreen nails that look luxurious without going overboard on accents or designs. This color also looks flattering on every skin tone, making for an easy and festive way to spruce up your look.
7. Moscow Mule
I’ve always loved the chrome trend—from glazed donut to Christmas ornament red. Moscow mule nails now take the stage as the next chrome nail obsession. This coppery look attempts to recreate the widely loved Moscow mule glass color with a neutral base and copper or gold chrome.
8. Ombré
While ombré isn’t necessarily a new trend, “these nails can be done in many colors and designs, and can be subtle or bold,” says Romah. This trend leaves plenty of room to experiment with seasonal colors and designs in a way suited to your personal taste.
9. Marble
One of the re-emerging trends on this list, marble nails are making a steady comeback in a new and improved light. Many fall versions of marble nails contain warmer color schemes such as burnt orange and brown, maroon, and navy blue.
10. 3D Art
“3D nail art is very eye-catching and can be a great way to make your nails stand out and add an extra dimension to your look,” says Romah. These nails are bold and may take a bit more time in the salon, but the results can be incredible. Some of the best 3D nails simply elevate your regular nail look by providing texture and line art to traditional designs.