Fall fashion gets a lot of love—layered knits, boots, scarves—but nails? They deserve a moment too. When the air gets crisp and the PSLs start flowing, it’s time to retire your sheer pinks and beachy brights for something a little richer, moodier, and more seasonal.

Whether you're booking your next salon appointment or lining up your favorite DIY polishes, these are the five nail looks you'll be seeing everywhere this fall. From classic tones to trending textures, here’s what’s on the fall nail color radar.

 

1. Tortoise Shell

This one's for the trendsetters. Tortoise shell nails have been bubbling up for a while now, and this fall, they’re going fully mainstream—and for good reason. The blend of warm amber, honey brown, and deep espresso tones mimics the look of classic tortoiseshell accessories, giving nails a luxe, layered effect that’s as eye-catching as it is sophisticated.

What makes this look stand out is the technique: it’s not a flat color, but a marbled design that requires a bit of artistry. If you're not a DIY pro, this one’s worth handing over to a nail tech. Try it as a full set for a bold statement, or just on a few accent nails paired with a neutral base.

 

 

2. Mocha Brown

Mocha brown is the nail color equivalent of your favorite oversized sweater. It’s warm, comforting, and endlessly wearable. This creamy, medium brown tone bridges the gap between minimalist and seasonal, giving your nails a grounded look without feeling too heavy.

It’s the kind of color that works whether you're in the office or out with friends, and it complements literally every skin tone. 

 

 

3. Red Wine

Red wine nails in fall? Groundbreaking. But seriously, this classic never misses. Deep red, burgundy, oxblood—whatever your shade of choice, red wine nails are basically the little black dress of fall manicures. They’re timeless, elegant, and manage to strike that perfect balance between vampy and chic.

If you haven’t worn a red wine polish in a while, this is your sign to bring it back into rotation. It’s especially stunning on short, rounded nails with a glossy finish, though a matte top coat can add a modern edge.

 

 

4. Forest Green

If you’re tempted to reach for a dark red but want to mix it up, forest green is your answer. Deep, rich, and just the right amount of unexpected, this shade gives your nails that fall feel without being too on-the-nose.

Bold, but wearable, forest green plays well with both warm and cool tones, meaning it’ll go with practically everything in your wardrobe, from neutrals to jewel-toned knits.

 

 

5. Velvet Nails

Okay, not technically a color, but velvet nails are a full-on moment this fall. With their soft, light-reflective finish that looks like crushed velvet, this trend is all about texture and dimension. You can rock velvet nails in any classic autumnal shade, and the result is pure fall glam.

Velvet nails are perfect for nights out or even a cozy dinner party when you want something special without going over the top. Depending on the polish or powder used, they can look shimmery, metallic, or like an optical illusion in motion.

They're best achieved with magnetic or “cat-eye” polish formulas, so if you're going the DIY route, make sure you have the right tools. But if you're heading to a salon, just ask for the velvet effect—you’ll be obsessed.