While there’s no denying the chicest people have their nails done year-round, in my opinion, if you’re someone who favours expensive-looking nail colours, autumn is your season. Why? Well, as if in opposition to the playful, bright nail trends we often gravitate towards during the summer months, autumn nail trends always feel much more luxe.
From rich, cosy hues which tap into the mood of the season to chic, simple nail art (hello, polka dots), I’m sure there’s a direct correlation between the change in weather and the rise in elegant nail designs—and, as someone who keeps track of nail trends for a living, trust me, I should know.
So, what exactly are these elegant nail colours we’re all going to be asking for this Autumn? Well, to find that out, I thought who better to ask than the experts. So, I asked the advice of one of the biggest names behind the nail colours we all wear, Daisy Kalnina, founder of The Gel Bottle, and a nail artist who sees first-hand exactly what shades we’re all asking for, Jasmine Puma. Here are their predictions for the hottest nail colours to wear for autumn 2025.
The Best Nail Colour Trends for Autumn 2025
1. Wine Red
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2. Burnt Rust
For something a little more unexpected, Kalnina recommends opting for rust tones and warm terracottas. “Autumn is the perfect time to embrace richer, moodier tones that feel sophisticated yet fresh,” she tells me, “[And these shades] pair beautifully with cosy knits and seasonal layers.” While block colours are one way to go, Kalnina is also a huge fan of “burnt oranges, but with a twist. Metallic, velvet and shimmery finishes on rust oranges will add understated glamour.”
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3. Darkest Brown
“We’ve seen cosy dark brown tones trending not just as a nail colour this year but in clothing and makeup trends too,” explains Puma, “and it’s a shade that really comes into its own during the autumn months.” For an expensive look, opt for a brown polish with warm undertones and top with a high-shine top coat for an ultra-glossy finish.
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4. Milky White + Pink
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5. Midnight Navy
“For autumn 2025, I’m a huge fan of gorgeous deep blue navy tones as they look luxe, elegant and seriously expensive,” says Puma. Navy is also a great entry point for those who aren’t used to wearing darker tones on their nails, offering more dimension than classic black but with the same penchant for drama.
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6. Smoky Plum