If the wind and rain outside is anything to go by, it’s officially the season for pumpkins, spice and all things nice. As we reluctantly pack up our bikinis and shorts for another year (sigh), we've got to also approach our beauty routines with renewed spirit (ghoulish pun intended). Swapping bright blushers for toasty bronzers, creams for oils, and forgo juicy, colour-pop hues in favour of deeper, moodier tones. As for your nails, make the most of them before they’re bundled into mittens and gloves, using them to lean into the autumnal mood.
Ahead, three experts tell us *exactly* what you'll be rockin' on your their nails this season...
Warmth and whimsigoth
“Autumn always invites a return to depth and drama,” says Lynn Mason, nail expert at Mavala UK. “This season, we’re seeing a revival of grunge-inspired glamour.” Think: Jenna Ortega’s makeup during her recent red carpet appearances. Go full “whimsigoth” with a bold plum, (which flatters every skin tone, according to Mason), or reach for a classic, deep red.
Rich and warm colours lend themselves to a moody aesthetic. “I’m absolutely obsessed with Bio Sculpture’s Garnet Noir,” notes celebrity Bio Sculpture nail artist Julia Diogo. “It’s a deep, wine red. Every time I wear it, people ask me where it’s from.”
But when it comes to deeper hues, don’t sleep on the nail prep. “Dark shades highlight any uneven edges,” warns Hannah Taylor, Brand Ambassador at The GelBottle Inc, “So start with careful prep of the cuticles, shape the nails cleanly, and ensure a smooth base. When painting, use thin, controlled layers and finish with a high-gloss top coat to intensify and preserve the colour.”
Earthy hues
Be at one with mother nature and match your nails to your surroundings. “Earthy hues are set to dominate,” says Diogo. “My clients are already reaching for richer, more moody tones that feel just like autumn.”
She recommends trying the trend with rich browns, as does Taylor, who advises taking inspiration from the warm, cosy shades seen in nature and beyond. “Coffee- and mocha-inspired hues feel sophisticated and grounded, especially when paired with fashion trends like camel coats, chunky knit sweaters, leather boots, and plaid scarves,” she explains.
“Matching your manicure to these rich, natural tones creates a polished, coordinated look.” Her favourite shade to use this season? Heist, which is a jelly-like, slightly translucent, vampy brown.
Green fingers
While summery gardening days might be over, keep those fingers feeling green with polish. According to Taylor, earthy greens like olive and moss are set to be popular, while Diogo says teal is all over catwalks and her clients’ nail sets alike.
Polka dots
Polka dots transform a mani with minimum effort and maximum impact – no matter your colour choices. Diogo says they’re popular because they’re so nostalgic, while Taylor notes how easy the noughties style is to create at home. Simply use a dotting tool with gleeful abandon, and remember to use contrasting colours for the most striking finish.
Mix and match
Get creative and mix and match to your heart’s desire. “Combine autumnal shades with textures and patterns like tortoiseshell, crocodile print, gold chrome and soft aura gradients,” says Taylor. “The result is a unique manicure that’s bold, fashionable, and perfectly suited to the season.”
This trend takes inspo from Korean nail art, which often features syrupy hues and dazzling pigments in fun, unexpected textures. For an autumnal twist, pick a cohesive colour palette based on the above trends, and then add cute little autumn-themed stickers.
