A fresh manicure can make you feel a little more “polished” even when you’re wearing your most basic outfit. Nail polish is also a fun, affordable way to try out new colors or trends. If you like to have your nails done at a salon, some of the current nail trends for you are long almond-shaped metallic nails, pearl and jewel embellishments, and nail art. But if you’re a minimalist or just prefer to do your own nails, here are 9 simple fall and winter nail trends to try….
1. DIY Chocolate Glazed Donut
If you’ve looked for nail inspiration on social media recently, you’ve probably seen Hailey Bieber’s Chocolate Glazed Donut nails; an iridescent ombre manicure created with gel polishes and metallic nail powder.
For a similar but simplified version, try nail polish with a frost or shimmer finish. Zoya’s Pasha (taupe) and Cinnamon (rust brown) and Kalista (deep brown) all have a shimmery finish.
2. Chocolate, Coffee, and Caramel
If you want to skip the glaze, try a glossy brown in chocolate, coffee, or caramel shades. I just discovered this nail polish brand that makes chocolate-scented glossy nail polish in three shades of brown. Would that make you crave chocolate and coffee more or less?!
3. Blues And Greens
This year’s fall and winter nail trends include plenty of blues including slate blue, denim, and navy. If you prefer greens, look for khaki, olive, or forest green. Mix up blues and greens for a simple but fun look.
4. Black
Black will always be a popular color around Halloween and New Year’s Eve, but what’s new this year is black with a matte finish. Finish your manicure with Essie’s Matte About You Mattifying Top Coat for that chalkboard look.
5. Barbiecore
Barbiecore (yes, fashion inspired by the iconic doll) has been trending since the spring and will continue into fall. That means you’ll see shades of hot pink alongside the usual warm fall colors. If voluminous hair, body-con dresses, and pink platform heels are not your style
6. Glitter Accents
If you have a glittery topcoat, don’t apply it all over your nails. Instead, use a thinner brush to put it at the base of your nails, tips of your nails, or somewhere in the middle. I had this done at a nail salon, but with a little practice and the right tools, you can do this at home.
This Nail Art Brush Kit has multiple tools for all kinds of designs including a small brush for glitter accents.
7. Colorful French Manicures
A classic French manicure is always in style but what we’re seeing in this year’s fall and winter nail trends is a more colorful look. Start with traditional sheer nude and paint your tips in any color. You can also create a rainbow effect by using a different color on each tip.
You can use Half Moon Guides (tape) or a Nail Art Stamper to DIY your French manicure. Gel polishes work better than regular polishes with these nail tools.
7. Dots
If you’re ready to try nail art, the most simple design is dots. Dip your nail dotting tool in polish to add a few dots along the center of your nail, or in a polka dot pattern.
8. Nail Stickers
Nail stickers aren’t just for kids! If you want to embellish your nails without putting in the time to paint or stamp your own designs, try nail stickers. Go ahead and add those gems, animal prints, Halloween characters, or Christmas accents.
9. Multicolor Manicures
If you want to paint each nail in a different color, go ahead!
My favorite style is to keep all the colors in one family, all blues or shades of pink. If you don’t have multiple shades of a single color, you may like this Deborah Lippmann Bed of Roses Gel Lab Pro gift set. It includes shades of pink, nudes, and a smoky purple that would look beautiful in one manicure.