The autumn 2024 nail trends to know

Merlot, olives and chocolate: not just delicious things to consume next to a roaring fire, but autumn’s hottest nail trends, too. Each of these earthy tones conforms to the current TikTok craze for ‘moody nails’, namely “plums, dark browns, deep red, navy blues and even black”, according to nail technician Sami Pelling, per Fresca. Even better, they’re far from flash in the pan and complement autumn’s best fashion buys. “There’s something about these moody tones that oozes sophistication and pairs perfectly with autumn wardrobes full of cosy knits and layered textures,” says Sami. “Darker nails tend to make a bold statement without being garish; they can be so chic and understated,” she adds.

Love a classic red manicure? Give it an autumnal twist by opting for rich burgundies and crimsons, or experiment with a shiny glazed finish or tonal French tips. What’s more, if you’re going DIY, dark shades can actually be easier to apply than lighter hues, according to expert manicurist and OPI ambassador Lilly Lam. “Dark shades with a bit of a shimmer, or deep metallics, are among the easiest polishes to apply neatly, plus you’re spoilt for choice for rich, glossy polishes at this time of year.”

And if you’re in a rush, stick-on nails are better than ever. Try OPI Xpress/On Nails in Malaga Wine, £16.80, for a seasonal squ-oval manicure in seconds; Elegant Touch Core Polish Black Cherry False Nails, £5, for gorgeously autumnal nails on a shoestring; or new brand Fette for grown-up press on nails in a refined array of shades. Otherwise, bookmark the below for your next salon visit (we’ll be asking for the tortoiseshell look with tiny black French tips).