Halloween is a time to express yourself. But when it comes down to the costume, it’s the details that count. A scary ghostface can be elevated with a truly blood-curdling manicure. Freddie quite literally had his own stiletto-shaped nails. And while it’s only socially acceptable to wear your costume for one day out of the year, a Halloween manicure can be worn for all of Fall (or whenever, we’re not judging).
When deciding on your Halloween look, picking out the right color shade is everything. “For Halloween, I love a blood red or black with a white accent depending on the theme of your costume,” says Paintbox creative director Mabelyn Alva. Nail Artist Rachel Joseph adds that black is a Halloween staple. “My favorite Halloween colors are black, burnt orange, a true blood red, and a deep purple!”
Meet the expert
Once you have your palette locked in, it’s time for design. Joseph recommends black French Tips, and chrome nails. She also adds that Beetlejuice nails are currently on-trend. “Lime green neons, glow in the dark nails and black & white striped nails!” says Joseph.
Check out InStyle’s 30 favorite Halloween nail looks below. We dare you to pick just one!
Blood Red
When you want to keep it simple but spooky, look no further than a blood-red shade. It’s bold, timeless, and a little bit haunting.
Pumpkin Spice
The shimmer effect on these brown nails screams “autumnal” and will be relevant far into November once Halloween is over.
Orange you glad it’s Halloween?
A design that’s perfect for nails short and long, the black stars are the perfect subtle Halloween look
The Hands Have Eyes
If Halloween brings out your superstitious side, try these evil eye designs on your half-moons.
Slime Time
If you see green, oozing slime, it might mean a monster is somewhere to be seen…or it means you have gorgeous nails. Actually, it’s Halloween—so it can be both.
Blood and Spiders
These nails tell a story, and that story is terrifying. Dripping blood, captive spiders. What more could you want for your Halloween look?
Spider Tips
What’s more appropriate than this cobweb design? The crisp line between the design and clear polish elevates this spooky look.
Beetlejuice Beetlejuice Beetlejuice
Our favorite Michael Keaton character is the villain of the moment this season. Honor his iconic freaky ways with this movie-inspired nail design.
What’s Your Favorite Scary Movie?
If you want to stick to the Halloween classic films, check out this homage to the favorites-as long as you don’t mind looking at a ghostface mask all day.
Pumpkin Pie Delight
A gentle, but very seasonally appropriate nail design. Think Jack-o-lantern, without the commitment of the design.
Witchy Weekend
Orange is a clear power player when it comes to the color of the season. Add in some moons and stars? You’re ready to go out, or curl up on the couch and watch Hocus Pocus for the hundredth time.
October Leaves
If you want the Halloween color palette, without the holiday-theme commitment, try this floral French tip design.
Poison Ivy
The Green flames will complement any orange, purple, or black outfit this holiday season. Plus, they are the perfect accessory to your poison Ivy or Charli XCX costume.
Nighttime Sparkle
A regular black manicure is always appropriate, but especially for Halloween. Add some sparkle to the look with this gold design.
The Halloween Special
When you love everything about the season, but just can’t decide. This design has the whole color palette, plus cute cobwebs and bats for some added flair.
Snakes, But Demure
If you just want to keep the snakes, but lose the sparkles, have no fear. And French tip combination works well here.
You Glow Girl
Most Halloween festivities are at night. Be the talk of the party when your nails are literally glowing.
We’ll Skip to Christmas
We get it, Halloween isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. Go against the norm with a look that says: “I start playing my Christmas music in July.”
Drip Drip Drip
French is always appropriate. Take it up a notch with these blood drips from your tips.
Cat-Eye
It’s not a solid color, but this InStyle author firmly believes that cat-eye (aka velvet) is an appropriate member of the Halloween color palette.
Fun Clowns, Great Nails
Clown nails are a great character for your October nail look because of how they are customizable-are you feeling like a fun clown or scary clown? The choice is yours this Halloween.
Stars Stars Stars!
Keep it simple this October with a gorgeous black, sparkly polish. It’s subtle, but on theme.
Claws
While these nails are gorgeous year round, they certainly give something extra on October 31st.
Trick or Treat!
If your favorite part of Halloween is the candy, you’re not alone. Choose treat over trick this year with this colorful design.
Toxic and Iconic
We’re loving this smoky, green design. The bright green gives toxic fumes in a way that will complement any seasonal outfit you choose.
A Very Disney Hallloween
A Mickey ghost, vampire and jack-o-lantern? Yes please. This design is incredible in 3D, and would stand out in 2D as well.
Skull Nail Candy
A skull design is the cherry on top of this gorgeous red nail set.
The Tail End of Our List
The black cat on the accent nail? The paw on the pinky? The cute design is truly good for year-round wear. More cats, less problems.
