As the temperatures drop and the sweaters come out, it’s time to update your wardrobe and mani wardrobe. Whether you’re into bold hues or classic shades, this is the fall palette you need to get behind and the one to bid farewell to those who have overstayed their welcome. Here’s what to embrace and what to leave behind this fall.
1. Rich Burgundy: Embrace It
Burgundy is a fall classic. This deep, wine-toned hue embodies the richness of the season and pairs effortlessly with fall’s cozy textures. Whether rocking a chunky knit or a sleek leather jacket, burgundy nails add sophistication and depth to your look. This shade whispers quiet luxury and meets rich mom.
2. Bright Neon: Ditch It>
Neons had their moment in the summer sun, but fall is not the time to keep those electric shades around. Neon colors clash with the muted, earthy tones of autumn fashion, and they can feel out of place in the cozier, more sophisticated vibe of the season. It’s time to put away the lime greens and hot pinks until next summer and embrace something more refined.
3. Burnt Orange: Embrace It
Nothing says fall quite like a burnt orange manicure. It’s warm and inviting and instantly brings to mind autumn leaves and pumpkin spice lattes. Burnt orange nails are playful and seasonally appropriate, adding just the right pop of color without being too loud. This shade is flattering on many skin tones, making it a must-have for your fall nail rotation.
4. Pastel Pink: Ditch It
Pastel pink might be sweet for spring but feels too soft and airy for fall. The delicate vibe of pastel shades doesn’t quite match the grounded, earth-toned palette that defines this time of year. If you’re tempted by pink, opt for a dusty rose or a deeper mauve that still gives a feminine touch while feeling more in tune with the season’s mood.
5. Dark Forest Green: Embrace It
Deep forest green is a bold, unexpected choice that works beautifully in the fall. This shade is rich, earthy, and a bit mysterious—perfect for adding an edge to your nail game. It pairs well with neutral outfits, making your nails the standout accessory. Dark green is also a great alternative to black if you’re looking for something dark but with a touch of warmth.
6. Bright Coral: Ditch It
Coral had its time in the sun (literally), but fall is not the season for this beachy, tropical hue. Bright coral doesn’t vibe with the autumn aesthetic, clashing with deeper fall tones like maroon and mustard. Save coral for the temperatures rising again, and focus on something moodier for your fall looks. If you want to stick with a warm tone, opt for a terracotta instead.
7. Chic Gray: Embrace It
Gray nails are the perfect blend of edgy and chic, making them a must-have this fall. This versatile shade works like a neutral but has more personality than your average nude. Whether you opt for a soft dove gray or a deep charcoal, this color adds a sophisticated and modern vibe to your look. Gray pairs effortlessly with any fall wardrobe, making it a no-brainer choice for the season.
8. Lemon Yellow: Ditch It
Lemon yellow screams sunshine, and lemonade stands, which means it has no place in your fall color rotation. This bright, cheery hue feels too playful for the cooler months, where darker, moodier tones reign supreme. If you’re a fan of yellow, consider swapping lemon for a mustard or ochre shade that feels warmer and more grounded.
9. Dusty Rose: Embrace It
If you’re not ready to part with your pinks, a dusty rose shade is the way to go. This muted pink hue is soft but not overly delicate, and it transitions beautifully into fall. Dusty Rose offers a more subdued and sophisticated vibe than your typical pastels, making it a versatile choice that still feels romantic without clashing with the season’s earthier tones. And if you want to go big, hot pink always makes a statement.
10. Bright Blue: Ditch It
Bright blue nails, while fun for the warmer months, feel out of place in the cooler, cozier fall season. The vibrant energy of neon blue doesn’t complement autumn fashion’s subtle, warm tones. Swap out that electric shade for a deep navy or midnight blue—something moody, chic, and perfectly suited to the season.
11. Classic Taupe: Embrace It
Taupe is a timeless neutral that works year-round but is especially perfect for fall. This understated shade brings a sophisticated edge to any outfit and complements fall’s cozy textures without overpowering them. Whether dressing up for a formal occasion or keeping it casual, taupe nails always look effortlessly chic and refined, making them a go-to for fall.
12. Metallic Gold: Embrace It
Metallics are a fall staple, and gold is at the top of the list. A gold manicure adds a touch of luxury and glamour to your look without feeling too over-the-top. Metallic gold nails look incredible when paired with jewel tones or rich textures like wool and leather, giving your fall outfits a little extra edge.
13. Chocolate Brown: Embrace It
Brown may not be the most obvious nail choice, but it’s having a major moment this fall. A warm chocolate brown brings an earthy, grounded vibe to your manicure that’s perfect for the cooler months. It’s a great alternative to black or gray and adds a cozy, autumnal touch to your look, especially when paired with neutrals or warm knits.
14. Pale Lavender: Ditch It
Pale lavender might have been a go-to for spring, but it’s far too soft for fall’s rich, warm tones. This pastel shade lacks the depth and sophistication needed for autumn, making it feel out of place. Ditto the French manicure. Swap it out for a deeper plum or violet that still gives you that purple fix but with a bi gravitas for the season.