On the forecast: vampy reds, jewel tones, classic black, and more.
In the wise words of Richard Gilmore (grandfather to Rory Gilmore in the made-for-fall viewing TV series, Gilmore Girls), “I am an autumn.” Meaning, as a complete and utter fall lover, I embrace the arrival of this new season and all that comes with it each year — including fall nail colour trends in all their moody, glossy glory.
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The vibrant hues of summer are simmered down to richer, deeper jewel-toned shades. The allure of tried-and-true vampy colours tempt us to go dark with our manicures ahead of Halloween. What’s not to love? Taking cues from Fall 2023 runways and our very own TikTok and Instagram feeds, we’ve settled on six colour trends you can expect to see painted on fingertips everywhere this autumn — including one classic Chanel polish making a comeback, two summer shades getting a fall makeover, and a whole lot more to choose from.
For our breakdown of the trendiest fall nail colours to try this autumn and where to shop them, scroll right on.
Vamped up
Commemorate fall’s arrival with a seasonally on-brand set of black cherry-coloured fingernails. Thanks to a TikTok video posted this month by vintage makeup enthusiast Erin Parsons, French fashion house Chanel’s best-selling “Vamp” (now Rouge Noir) nail varnish is due to spark an entire colour trend this season. As far as red-black polishes are concerned, Chanel’s is as iconic as it gets.
Since debuting on Chanel’s Fall 1994 runway, this shade has been spotted everywhere from Madonna’s music videos to our TikTok For You Pages. It’s always been a classic, but this fall we’re really feeling the pull of this moody shade.
Jewels, jewels, jewels
Who said we have to ditch colour for fall? Instead, trade in your summer brights for opulent jewel-toned polishes. Think: emerald green, citrine yellow, and amethyst purple. These bejewelled beauties make for the perfect transitional shades from summer to fall — and fall to winter.
Go green with Sally Hansen’s Insta-Dri polish in the shade “C-hill Out.” This three-in-one base, colour, and top coat promises to be fully dry after a single coat in just 60 seconds. That’s one, and done.
Treat yourself to a mustard yellow manicure courtesy of Hermès. This “Jaune Impèrial” nail enamel delivers a swipe of highly pigmented, long-lasting colour that you’ll be falling for this season.
Espresso yourself
The latte makeup look was everywhere this summer, and this autumn we’ll be taking the trend to our fingertips with coffee-coloured manicures. Mirroring all of the fall drinks we’ll be sipping, a manicure in the same brown-hued palette seems only right for this time of year. From creamy caramel tones to almost-black espresso shades, you can customize your next set of nails just as you would your favourite fall beverage. So, how do you take your coffee?
Essie’s quick drying Expressie polishes feature an angled brush that allows for easy application with both hands! Plus, there’s no need for a base or top coat here. Shop the shade “Take the Espresso” to really commit to that coffee-inspired look.
Some like it red hot
In case you haven’t heard, we’re in for a red-hot fall — and we’re not talking temperatures. On the Fall 2023 runways, labels like Prada, Bottega Veneta and Valentino forecasted an autumn season full of red garments and accessories. All you’ll need is a fiery manicure to match. Whether you prefer a classic shade of cherry or a sophisticated blood red to get in the Halloween spirit, there’s no right way to do red here. Remember the red nail theory? Put it to the test this season with your boldest red mani, if you dare.
From OPI’s “Classics” collection comes this “Big Apple Red” polish. It’s a totally timeless shade that could never go out of style, and it’s even got Hailey Bieber’s strawberry girl stamp of approval.
Gucci’s “Goldie Red” Vernis à Ongles Nail Polish is a little red luxury in a bottle. Pair this glossy nail lacquer with the brand’s matching lipstick to really lean into the red-on-red trend.
Deep navy
Like latte makeup, the somewhat controversial “blueberry milk” nail trend of the summer is getting a fall-approved makeover. Enter: navy nails. This deep blue is dark enough to capture that moody essence of the season, yet understated enough to be worn with all of your favourite coats, sweaters, and cardigans. Why not do navy?
Londontown’s Lakur Enhanced Colour polishes provide a gel-like finish and wear, without needing to be cured by a UV/LED lamp. This chip-resistant nautical navy shade from the collection is right on trend.
Boldly black
’Tis the season of the witch — and nothing is witchier than a blackest-black set of onyx talons. Sleek, classic, and sexy, you can truly never go wrong with a jet-black manicure for fall. Though, we understand not everyone may be ready for Halloween just yet. If you’re looking for a more approachable take on an all-black mani, try playing with softer nail shapes and dainty designs with black accents instead.
With a “snap and it’s dry” promise, Revlon’s collection of vegan Ultra HD Snap polishes are perfect for a last minute black manicure. And because nail care is just as important as achieving that gorgeous glossy look, these polishes are over 78 per cent naturally derived.
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