There’s just something about fall that makes us want to hit refresh on everything—our wardrobe, our skincare, and yes, our nails. Whether it’s the cozy vibe of sweater weather or the undeniable pull of pumpkin spice season, fall nails have a way of making your whole look feel polished (pun intended). This year, Pinterest and TikTok are overflowing with autumn manicure inspiration, and I’ve rounded up the best colors and designs you’ll want to copy ASAP.

From rich burgundy tips to chic sweater nail textures, these fall nail ideas will have you scrolling, pinning, and—most importantly—shopping the shades you need to bring them to life. Let’s dive into the top colors that are trending for fall 2025.

Related article: How to Get a Neon Pedicure Using Essie 2-in-1 White Nail Primer and Gel-setter

Top Fall Nail Colors for 2025

When it comes to nails, fall 2025 is all about warmth, richness, and texture. Think cozy latte shades and moody jewel tones, paired with the kind of polish that makes you feel instantly put together. Here are the standout colors of the season:

Burgundy / Wine

The ultimate fall classic. Burgundy nails are chic, timeless, and pair perfectly with everything from denim jackets to holiday party dresses.
Try: OPI “Malaga Wine” or Essie “Berry Naughty”

Burnt Orange

Call it pumpkin spice for your nails. Burnt orange is playful but still sophisticated, especially with a matte finish.
Try: Sally Hansen “Hot Tamale” or Zoya “Autumn”

Olive Green

This earthy shade is surprisingly versatile. It’s subtle enough for work but still trendy enough for your fall coffee runs.
Try: OPI “Suzi – The First Lady of Nails”

Chocolate Brown

Rich, glossy brown nails scream cozy chic. Think of them as the nail equivalent of your favorite oversized cardigan.
Try: Essie “Wicked”

Mustard Yellow

For the bold babes. Mustard yellow is perfect for nail art accents or a full set if you’re feeling adventurous.
Try: China Glaze “Mustard the Courage”

Nudes & Neutrals

A good nude never goes out of style. Pair it with gold accents or keep it clean for that minimalist fall vibe. Try: Essie “Sand Tropez”

25 Trending Fall Nail Designs

Fall 2025 isn’t just about the shades—it’s about how you wear them. This season’s nail designs are Pinterest-perfect, but still easy enough to pull off whether you’re a DIY queen or booking your next salon appointment. Here are the designs you’ll be seeing everywhere:

Sweater Nails

Yes, textured nails are still in, and sweater nails are leading the pack. With their cozy cable-knit patterns, they’re basically the PSL of nail art—warm, comforting, and impossible to resist.
What you’ll need: A gel polish, nail art brush, and a steady hand. Or cheat a little with textured nail stickers (no shame).

French Tips With a Twist

Classic French tips get a fall makeover with burgundy, olive green, or even metallic gold replacing the traditional white. Chic, simple, and perfect for when you want to feel polished without going full drama.
Pro tip: Swap the glossy finish for matte to stay on-trend.

Matte Finish

Matte polish is having a major moment this fall. It takes even the simplest shade—like chocolate brown or nude—and makes it look runway ready. Bonus: it hides chips better than glossy polish.
Try: A matte topcoat to instantly transform any polish you already own.

Pumpkin Spice Gradient

Why settle for one fall shade when you can have them all? A gradient or ombré manicure using burnt orange, mustard, and burgundy is a fun way to channel fall vibes without committing to just one color.

Plaid Nail Art

Plaid isn’t just for your scarf. Warm Plaid nail art is trending big, especially in classic fall colors like red, green, and yellow. It’s detailed, yes, but nail stickers or press-ons make it surprisingly doable at home.

Metallic Accents

Think gold foil, copper stripes, or a single metallic accent nail. Metallics instantly elevate any fall manicure and give off a festive vibe—perfect for the transition from pumpkin patches to holiday parties.

Try DIY Fall Nails at Home

Not everyone has the time (or budget) to hit the nail salon every two weeks—and honestly, sometimes doing your own nails is part of the fun. With the right tools and a little patience, you can recreate Pinterest-worthy fall nails right at home. Here’s how:

Step 1: Prep Your Nails

• Remove old polish and file nails into your desired shape (almond and square are trending this year).
• Push back cuticles and buff the surface lightly for a smooth base.
  Must-have: Revlon Nail File & Buffer Set

Step 2: Choose Your Base Color

Pick one of the season’s top shades—burgundy, burnt orange, or chocolate brown. Apply two thin coats for the best color payoff.
Shop: OPI “Malaga Wine” or Essie “Wicked”

Step 3: Add a Seasonal Accent

Here’s where you get creative:

• Add gold glitter to just one nail for subtle sparkle.
• Try matte topcoat over the entire set for a chic finish.
• Use nail stickers or decals (think plaid or leaf motifs) for instant fall vibes.
  Shop: Matte Top Coat, Fall Nail Stickers Pack

Step 4: Seal It In

Always finish with a quality topcoat—glossy or matte—to lock in your design and prevent chips. Cure under a UV lamp if you’re using gel polish.
Shop: Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Top Coat or SUNUV UV LED Lamp

Step 5: Hydrate

Don’t skip this step—your cuticles need love too. A nourishing cuticle oil keeps your manicure looking salon-fresh longer.
Try: CND SolarOil Cuticle Oil

Pro Tip: If nail art feels intimidating, start with press-on nails. They’re affordable, quick, and come in trendy fall designs that look just as good as a professional manicure.

Conclusion

Fall is the season for cozy sweaters, hot lattes, and—of course—fresh nails that complete the look. Whether you’re all about classic burgundy tips, playful pumpkin spice gradients, or chic nude nails with gold accents, these fall nail ideas are here to make your autumn style feel polished from head to toe.

The best part? You don’t have to spend a fortune at the salon to get the look. With the right polishes, press-ons, and a little creativity, you can recreate these trending fall nail designs right at home.

Your Next Step:

• Save this post on Pinterest so you’ll have all the inspo in one place.
• Shop my fall nail faves below to bring these looks to life.
• And don’t forget to share your fall nails with me on Instagram—I’d love to see which trend you try first!

Here’s to a season of cozy vibes and nails that look just as good as your pumpkin spice latte.

Shop trending nail polish on my LTK