10 on-trend nail art ideas for autumn 2024

Here’s a roundup of the hottest nail art trends to inspire your next seasonal manicure as we enter the autumn months.

While the bold, vibrant hues and floral, fun prints of summer are always enjoyed in the warmer months, the building excitement of nail enthusiasts awaiting their autumn manicures is undeniable.

Muted, neutral shades are set to dominate this autumn season, also seeing the return of seasonal animal-print trends, with the resurgence of some surprising trends you’ll have to scroll to see. Here are all the nail art trends clients will be requesting this autumn…

1. Tortoiseshell print

This print, often labelled with the cute nickname ‘tortie’ print, is a seasonal staple which returns every year as the trees start to brown. Inspired by the pattern of a tortoises shell, this print is typically characterised by blooming black spots atop a caramel-coloured base. Opt for a the print over all nails, or mix ‘n’ match with French tips, and feature nail styles. Versatile and stylist, it complements most outfits and shades can be changed up to suit all skin tones.

View our blonde tortoiseshell gallery for some ‘tortie with a twist’ inspiration here.

2. Black cherry nails

The black cherry hue; another autumn trend trademark. Taking inspiration from the deep purple-red hue of a cherry, the rich tones offer a chic alternative to a jet-black mani or pedi. Whether opting for a chic full colour design, sophisticated French tips or an autumn extravaganza (alike this manicure we love from Katie Turner, behind @radiant_nails_), this colour is idyllic for the cooler months.

Click here to see 15 more black cherry nail looks to inspire your next manicure.

3. Micro French tips

The micro mani is trending, and we can see why! For nail lovers wanting a simplistic look, this is the inspiration picture to take to your next nail appointment. The slight pop of colour atop nail ends creates quite the ‘demure’ finish, oozing class. Choose a classic white, or a warm seasonal hue.

Want to see more micro French manis? Visit our gallery for more takes on the trend.

4. 3D designs

Our social media accounts are flooded with three-dimensional designs, with techs using 3D gel, embellishments and other creative additions to bring blank nail canvases to life. While summer was filled with the seashell, mermaid and ethereal 3D designs, expect a similar wow factor in the coming months, with an autumn twist.

Click here for our long-length, 3D nail gallery to bring an extra wow factor to your seasonal look.

5. Navy sophistication

This year sees clients opting for navy manicures; a refreshing take on the neutral colours that typically dominate the season.

Utah-based Light Elegance educator, Taryn VanAlfen, recognises the heightened demand for the shade: “Navy nails are becoming a trend for autumn and winter because it pairs perfectly with the season’s darker, neutral colours.”

In need of navy? Visit our colour-inspired gallery for 15 trending looks.

6. ‘Latte’ nails

Often also coined as ‘espresso’ nails, this trend takes inspiration from the hues of a warm coffee. This trend has been soaring in popularity following the release of US singer, Sabrina Carpenter’s, catchy ‘Espresso’ song, which spent seven weeks at the top of the UK singles chart.

The craze for warm nail shades of brown and cream – perhaps with a splash of nail art – is a timely choice for autumn nail styles.

Click here for 16 designs which nailed the latte nail brief.

7. Mob wife 2.0

Typically characterised by eye-catching statement manicures, featuring bold prints and embellishments; this trend is the opposite to the ‘clean girl’ aesthetic.

Popular at the beginning of the year, pros predict a new wave with a twist for the coming season. “We are seeing a resurgence in mob wife style, ensuring that leopard print and bling is always at the top of the list for popular nail art options,” comments Belinda Price, OPI UK education & capability manager.

Click here to master the mob wife trend by visiting our gallery, bursting with maximalist manicure inspiration.

8. ‘Barely there’ nails

If the mob wife aesthetic isn’t from you, do not fear – ‘barely there’ nails are also in trend for clients who prefer a subtle finish. Using a sheer colour, this trend ensures nails are always looking ultra-polished and clean, the perfect accompaniment to any autumnal outfit.

Click here to see the celebrity sporting the seasonal nail trend…

9. Go chrome, or go home

The return of the chromes… Whether opting for chrome French tips, or an all-over holographic finish, this versatile trend can be adapted to any client. For your more subtle client, suggest a slight chrome enhancement to their full colour look, or for your more daring clients, tempt them with a full multi-colour, chrome transformation!

Want 50 trending chrome nail designs to choose from? Click here for our full gallery.

10. Short nail designs

Short nail lengths are a hot topic in the nail world, so why not go back to basics? The practical trend oozes simplicity for a subtle, yet effective, manicure. Opt for a micro-mani for all things teeny-tiny and minimalist, or opt for bold nail art which can do the talking.

If you’re seeking a practical, yet stylist, short length manicure, this is the gallery to view.