14 Nail Art Trends That Feel Like Fall Is Already Here

Photo: via @nailedbylaurajanePumpkin spice is back on the menu, Halloween decorations are slowly infiltrating stores, and we could swear there’s a slight chill in the air. Okay, that might be wishful thinking, but if Instagram’s nail artists are anything to go by, fall is right around the corner. Ahead, find the 12 fall nail art trends we predict will be huge this year. There’s something for everyone, whether you like your nails short or you’re a seasoned BIAB devotee. Micro French TipsThe deep French reigned supreme this summer, but with overall nail trends leaning toward shorter shapes, it’s the micro French’s time to shine. Bonus points for choosing a more brooding shade, like burgundy or forest green. Mixed NeutralsNo one does a mix-and-match set quite like @chummy.nails. Using what she calls “romantic neutrals,” this set combines walnut blooming gel, muted gray tones, and gold chrome accents, finished with a smattering of falling leaves. Seasonal StripesWe can’t get enough of striped tips, but this fall, deeper shades like burgundy and pumpkin-inspired orange are replacing the pastel pinks and sky blues of summer. Take cue from this set by J.Eve.Pony PrintNail artist Citre drew inspiration from Chanel’s pony-print bag for this luxe set, layering caramel and amber tones in scattered polka dots over a custardy base. Jelly GemsCitre layered jelly polish over a cat-eye base, creating the effect of jewels set in a crown — even more beautiful when they catch the light. Autumnal Polka DotsPolka dots are going nowhere this fall, but the color palette is changing. Olivia Hoath’s butter-yellow and maple-brown set, complete with contrasting French tips, is understated yet guaranteed to earn compliments. Blue SuedeWe identified blue suede — nail art featuring a mix of blue and brown — as a key color combination last fall, and it looks like it’s having a second run. This set by Ash combines double French tips, color blocking, and tartan print, and we’re obsessed. Frosted OmbréOmbré gets a chilly update with these light-blue tips and a veil of chrome layered over the top, giving this set by Bryony Howell a mesmerizing, frosted effect. Blonde TortoiseshellBlonde tortoiseshell? It’s totally a thing, according to nail artist Stacey Machin. These neutral-toned tips ooze fall vibes. Deep Checked TipsThere’s something inherently bucolic about green and brown together, and these tartan tips by Chummy Nails prove they’re a match made in... nature. Dipped ChromeThe fall iteration of “pillbox” nails is getting a chrome upgrade. Catya's sky-blue tips pay homage to summer, while the metallic base gives the look a frosty finish. Plus, keeping the tips glossy means your nails are less prone to chipping — a major bonus when chrome polish can be notoriously tricky to keep pristine. Color-BlockingNail artist Stephanie Holland makes a case for muted tones with this teal, chestnut, and butter-yellow set, complete with mix-and-match French tips. The sharp, square shape is a departure from the trending almond shape, but we love it. Mirrored FrenchNail artist Cindy Paola hits three trends in one with this short set: monochrome, micro French tips, and filling in the half-moon of the nail, aka the lunula. There’s something beautifully retro about it. Lava LampLaura Jane’s stunning cat-eye set is like staring into a lava lamp, with sparkles that shift in the light. So good, we’ve had it bookmarked since July.