Simple Fall Manicures You Don’t Want to Miss

Certain times of the year beg for maximalist manicure looks. The holidays, for example, often come with festive designs and detailed nail art. As spooky season approaches, you’re probably planning your Halloween manicure and costume down to a T. But before the holiday hustle takes over, it may be a good idea to slow things down with a simple fall nail look. Autumn always brings fresh energy and a lot of beauty inspiration. As far as simple fall manicures go, that typically means swapping in seasonal shades, like earth tones and moody colors. The right polish can instantly give your nails a cozy feel that can be amplified with a sleek design. Finding the perfect pairing can be exhausting, though. Fortunately, we’ve gathered the best looks to try right now. Keep reading to find your new favorite.

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Oxblood Ombré

We love an ombré chrome design as much as the next person, but with fall settling in, this oxblood look feels much more seasonal. The deep colors blend effortlessly together and have a dark gradient that screams spooky season.

IG: @samrosenails

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Sheer Black Hearts

This sheer design is subtly sexy, just like the fashionable hosiery of the season. The unique look features a mix of hearts and tiny dots that make it playful and sophisticated.

IG: @bycheznails

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Hot Chocolate Nails

‘Tis the season for warm and creamy nail colors like this milk chocolate hue. The smooth consistency of the polish makes for a sleek manicure with rich girl vibes. Just be sure to finish with a glossy topcoat for an incredible shine.

IG: @paintedbyjools

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Pumpkin Patch

This pumpkin design is simple and sleek, thanks to neutral colors and gold accents. To get the full effect, start with a natural base and use a paintbrush to create the intricate swirls and delicate pumpkin design.

IG: @samrosenails

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Nude French Manicure

While it’s true that French manicures are seasonless, this nude color feels perfect for fall. The gradient of nude and brown tips against the natural nail is more subdued than the design’s traditional colors. Even the length and shape of the nails add to the modern look.

IG: @bycheznails

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Pink Chrome

The chrome nail color trends come in waves—blue chrome was perfect for summer, and brown chrome debuted just in time for fall. While pink nails aren’t new, a chrome-dusted version is poised to be the next big thing. Get ahead of the trend with this gradient manicure featuring soft rose and ballet shades.

IG: @pattieyankee

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Silver Velvet Nails

Like chrome manicures, velvet nails are also ideal for a simple seasonal look. The key is choosing the right shade. This silver hue has a cozy sweater feel when paired with the velvet effect.

IG: @bycheznails

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Pressed Leaves

This design proves that simple nail art can be elegant and chic. The single line of caramel color fans out at the tip to create a sleek leaf shape, while fine gold lines finish the design. The result is as refined as your favorite fall handbag.

IG: @samrosenails

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Polka Dots

Some patterns, like polka dots, never go out of style. To create an understated design, try using simple colors like black and white. The stark contrast adds a touch of edge to the otherwise playful design.

IG: @samrosenails

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Classic Red Nails

When you need a quick pick-me-up, opt for a simple red manicure in a candy apple shade. The classic color never fails to deliver instant main character energy. To up the ante, go for long extensions in a natural almond shape.

IG: @overglowedit

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Swirls & Stripes

You don’t need to be a professional to create great nail art. Take a cue from this look, which uses various swirls and stripes to create a unique design. For a seasonal touch, opt for a mix of earthy colors like tan and forest green.

IG: @bycheznails

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Tortoiseshell Nails

Tortoiseshell is a staple fall print, whether used for boots, sunglasses or manicures. This set blends the classic print with cherry French tips to create an elegant manicure that’s seasonal and stylish.

IG: @overglowedit

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All Black

Simple and sleek, these black nails are the epitome of vampy fall nails. Instead of long extensions, pair the deep shade with a natural nail length and soft round tip.

IG: @nailsinc

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Purple Marble Nails

If you haven’t tried marble nails, fall is the perfect time to test drive the trend. This set uses a blend of purple and lavender shades to create a gemstone effect. For even more appeal, add a touch of glitter polish to a few of the nails.

IG: @nailinghollywood

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Ballet Pink

A soft ballet pink polish makes the ultimate quiet luxury manicure. While the color looks great on any nail shape, almond nails add to the elegant look and feel of the manicure.