As a cold-weather romanticist, I need very little convincing to nestle into Autumn. I’ve had warming amber candles burning since September, I’ve long since traded my fruity fragrances for comforting vanillas (currently Byredo’s Vanille Antique, if you’re interested), and my yearly rewatch of Gilmore Girls is well underway. The only thing I’m missing? A syrupy set of brown autumn nails.
Just as cheerful shades of pink and blue have their moments in the sun, and a vibrant red mani is textbook for Christmas, a rich chocolate brown is just right for Autumn – it’s fact. But why? According to Tinu Bello, senior ambassador at Mylee: ‘Brown tones perfectly capture the essence of autumn, reflecting the warm, earthy hues found in nature during this season – think fallen leaves, cosy sweaters, and the golden hour glow. The warmth and richness of brown shades harmonise with our surroundings and complement most autumn fashion trends. A brown manicure fits perfectly in the ultimate cosy aesthetic of Autumn.’
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If you’ve tried brown nails in the past and felt they looked dull or murky, chances are the undertone was off. Earthy colours like brown or khaki have this propensity, but focusing on shades that have clarity and warmth will stave off that dreary look. ‘Cooler browns with a greyish undertone can sometimes appear dull, so it’s best to choose richer, more saturated tones if that’s not the look you’re going for. Warm, caramel, or amber-toned browns also bring vibrancy, while deep, chocolate browns offer a polished look,’ Bello adds.
‘For lighter skin tones, try milk chocolate or mocha shades, while medium to deep skin tones can opt for richer colours like espresso or cinnamon. To maintain crispness, keep the shape of the nails sharp and clean, and avoid overly thick coats, which can dull the finish,’ she says.
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How to elevate a brown manicure
Monotone nails look incredibly polished and timeless, but experimenting with different finishes and nail art techniques will instantly elevate any manicure. ‘Matte finishes, for example, can give brown a sleek, contemporary vibe, while glossy chocolate tones scream luxury. Adding metallic accents, like gold foil, or minimalist geometric design can provide contrast and a futuristic edge. You can also incorporate negative space or subtle ombré gradients that transition from soft neutrals to rich browns. Also give unconventional brown hues like terracotta or cinnamon a try as they can add a trendy touch.’
Ahead, The Autumn-Coded Brown Nail Designs To Screenshot For Your Next Appointment
Brown Tortoiseshell Nails
Deep espresso brown marbles with gooey caramel for an elegant tortoiseshell effect.
Chocolate Brown Nails
This Lindt-inspired manicure looks good enough to eat.
Edgy Brown Nails
Can’t choose just one design? No problem.
Brown Nails With Tortoiseshell Swirl
Tortoiseshell nails with an out-of-this-world galactic twist.
Copper Brown Chrome Nails
It doesn’t get glossier than this dreamy copper chrome set. We’re obsessed.
Maple Syrup Brown Nails
If you’ve ever crushed on a celeb’s nails, chances are Zola did them. She’s the brain behind Hailey’s iconic maple syrup mani that went viral this year.
Brown Chrome Nails
The chrome nail trend takes autumn. Yet another @nailsbyzola masterpiece for good measure, but this time it’s on actress Vanessa Hudgens.
Brown Glitter Nails
Take the glitter up a notch with this ultra-shimmery brown manicure.
Brown Geometric Nails
A Seventies-inspired geometric manicure with black and brown accents.
Brown Halloween Nails
Still haven’t found your Halloween nail inspo pic? Look no further.
Brown French Tip Nails
The traditional French tip gets a funky autumn makeover.
Cocoa Brown Nails
This dark chocolate mani goes with just about anything.
Brown Ombré Nails
Put a playful twist on ombré nails by placing the darkest shade at the base and tip of the nail, and blend inwards to lightness. Here’s a nifty at-home tutorial, too.
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