As the temperatures drop and we trade our iced coffees for cozy lattes, espresso brown nails have quickly become the go-to manicure for fall. This deep, coffee-inspired shade is the ultimate way to channel the season’s warm, rich tones—offering that perfect blend of sultry sophistication and effortless cool. Much like your first sip of a well-brewed espresso, this moody brown hue delivers a bold statement without trying too hard. “The espresso manicure is a timeless and classic way to transition into the coziness of the fall season.” says celebrity nail artist Elizabeth Garcia.
And if you’re vibing with Sabrina Carpenter’s flirty line “That’s that me espresso”—you’ll love how this nail trend mirrors that playful yet polished energy. Espresso brown nails add the right amount of edge to your fall look, whether sipping your favorite latte or heading out for a night on the town. It’s the chic, elevated neutral you didn’t know you needed—rich, bold, and perfect for the season.
To help you nail down the trend, browse the stunning designs below.
Espresso Ombré
Adding an ombré effect to each nail is the perfect way to elevate a classic espresso brown manicure. The subtle gradient brings depth and dimension to the look, making it anything but ordinary. This style works on any nail length, but there’s something undeniably striking about how it looks on long, pointed tips.
Classic French
Seamlessly blending timeless elegance with a modern, seasonal twist, the classic french manicure with brown tips is the perfect nod to the espresso trend. The soft, neutral base keeps the look polished and sophisticated, while the rich brown tips add a cozy, autumnal feel that’s perfect for fall.
Classic Solid Brown
The classic solid brown manicure is a timeless choice that embodies sophistication and simplicity. This rich, deep hue offers a chic and polished look, making it a versatile option for any occasion. It was created using Hermès’ 95 Brun Bistre .
Sparkle Art
Nguyen combined deep brown and a latte beige to craft this simple yet fabulous look. The classic color pairing gives the manicure a chic, understated vibe, while adding a single sparkle design on one nail adds a touch of intrigue and glamour, making the entire look even more mesmerizing.
Glitter Brown
This manicure is ideal for anyone looking to add a bit of festive shine to their autumn aesthetic. It was created using Cirque Colors in the shade Lyra.
3D French
Not only do the brown hues shift beautifully from one hand to the other, but the tips also feature wavy, asymmetrical designs that add an artistic flair. Best of all, these tips have a stunning 3D effect, creating depth and texture that make the manicure truly stand out.
Espresso Florals
We love how the espresso brown nails beautifully integrate with fall florals, creating a stunning seasonal look. One hand showcases delicate flower designs, adding a touch of whimsy and nature-inspired charm, while the other hand remains a solid espresso brown ombré, offering a chic contrast. This look was created using Gelcare archive beige, cabernet, dusty rose, girl scout, desaturated pink, and suede.
Mix + Match Pattern
If you’re looking for a mix-and-match design that strikes the right balance without being too loud, this one is perfect. It features a classic French tip that alternates between crisp white and rich brown, complemented by a chic checkerboard pattern. The addition of a simple floral design brings a touch of elegance and whimsy, creating a cohesive yet playful look. It was created using Lights Lacquer Dream St and Espresso.
Espresso Cherry
What makes this design truly special is the charming cherry detail on two accent nails. The playful cherry design introduces a pop of color that contrasts beautifully with the deep glittery brown, adding a whimsical flair that keeps the overall look fresh and lively. This look was created using Gelcare SS24 “Pacha Red” and “Es Vedra.”
Double Shot
This manicure combines solid brown on two nails for a sleek look, while the next two nails feature the same rich brown as French tips for a playful touch. The standout middle finger showcases a unique design with an unpainted area in the center, creating a striking negative space effect that contrasts nicely with the polished cuticle and tips. The color used is Salon Perfect double shot.
Coffee Swirls
This manicure features swirly French tips in three different shades of brown, creating a beautiful gradient effect that resembles a subtle rainbow at the tips of the nails. This look was created using Salon Perfect conscious collection in Double Shot, Java Nice Day, and Love You a Latte.
Espresso Heart
The ring finger stands out with a heart design made from negative space, complemented by a small rhinestone in the center. This playful detail adds a bit of sparkle to the overall look.
Creamy Latte
This detailed design features each finger in a different shade of brown, from light to dark. Each nail is split vertically, with one half white and the other half in the matching brown shade. A heart shape in the center adds a charming touch to this unique manicure.
Bronze Glitter
For an extra touch of glamorous shine and shimmer, consider using a glitter polish in a rich shade of bronze.
Jelly French
“This manicure expresses different variations of brown shades that include a warm sheer jelly base, giving it a super expensive glossy finish,” says Garcia. “Adorning the nail tips with a darker brown shade gives it distinctive layers of a fine espresso.”
Marble Coffee
This is a unique and eye-catching take on the espresso brown manicure. Start by painting your nails a soft cream base, then get creative with abstract lines using a darker brown polish to mimic the swirling patterns of coffee.
