With each day that passes, the hot days of summer are only getting closer to being replaced by the cool essence of fall. And especially for the day-dreamers and fashion-forward alike, the month of August marks a desire to look ahead, no doubt craving cozy fall perfumes, yummy pumpkin spiced lattes, binge-worthy horror series, and more on the horizon.
When it comes manicures and pedicures with those warm autumnal vibes, more often than not, the nail art obsessed are currently on the hunt for some brand new nail polish colors to replace their vibrant go-to shades better fit for beachside vacations. Of course, neutral “quiet luxury” polishes are timeless no matter the season, though experts in the industry tell Bustle that rich jewel tones, pumpkin hues, and magnetic lacquers are set to be major for the months ahead.
As for more daring fall nail art trends set to take over? Well, spoiler: Expect to see lots of eye-catching 3D details (which A-listers like Christina Aguilera, Doja Cat, and more have been wearing nonstop) all over runways, red carpets, and social media feeds.
Below are the top 13 manicurist-approved fall nail art trends for 2023, as shared by Kim Truong, Zola Ganzorigt, Brittney Boyce, and Gracie J.
Autumn Florals
Kim Truong, the celebrity manicurist behind some of Kim Kardashian and Kourtney Kardashian Barker’s most-loved looks, shared an unexpected trend that is sure to gain steam come September. Her suggestion? Fall floral nail art on accent nails using muted, rusted, and autumnal hues. (Florals for fall? I mean, kind of groundbreaking.)
Classic Silver Chrome Frenchies
Brittney Boyce — the beloved LA-based manicurist behind some of Megan Fox’s headline-making manis — tells Bustle that “you can never go wrong with silver chrome, let alone on a French [tip]. I’ll always be obsessed with this look.”
Daring 3D Details
From Doja Cat’s mosaic manis to Christina Aguilera’s NSFW vulva manicure, it’s safe to say that 3D manis are having their main character moment. Zola Ganzorigt (the celeb-loved manicurist known for creating Hailey Bieber’s now-viral “glazed donut nails”) admits that the trend isn’t dying down anytime soon, noting that “creative textures and 3D details” will continue to appear through the cool fall months.
All That Glitters
According to Truong, a glitter tip is the perfect transition from fall to the major glitter and sparkle of the holiday season.
Abstract Art
Gracie J, a self-proclaimed “Nail ARTchitect” and founder of The Editorial Nail, tells Bustle that she is a “wear whatever color you want type of gal.” Though for autumn, she expects the season to bring with it abstract designs in “tonal” hues.
Sheer Mosaic Manicures
With Doja Cat and Megan Fox both major fans of the breakout mosaic mani trend, Boyce shares that clear nails topped with mismatched gemstones is her favorite go-to look because it’s “clean and simple, but also cool and trendy.”
Simply Studded French Nails
To effortlessly elevate a classic French manicure, Boyce says to pair the nostalgic look with a simple accent, like a stone or stud. What’s more, she explains that French tips are a solid option if you want to steer clear of traditional dark fall colors.
Gracie J agrees that French tips are absolutely timeless. “The French manicure will never phase out, no matter how many different color combinations arise,” the pro says.
Cabincore Mushroom Art
Dangling Nail Jewelry
Gracie J says that fall 2023 is sure to mark more exploration into the nail jewelry space. She expects “jewelry of quality extended to the fingertips, as opposed to adorning solely with rings.”
For the at-home painters, her own brand offers two nail jewelry styles: Antoinette (gold bamboo hoops) and Bonita Applebum (gold Cuban link hoops).
Cozy Fall Aura
Barbiecore Pink Meets Balletcore Bows
Black Matte Finishes
In lieu of shiny black lacquer, Boyce recommends playing around with matte black nail polish colors for a look that “screams fall if you’re into something a little edgy.”
