50 BEST FALL NAIL DESIGNS FOR RELAXING AFTERNOON TEA SESSIONS

Fall is the perfect time to enjoy a relaxing afternoon tea. The crisp air, the changing leaves, and the warm colors of the season create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. And what better way to complement your fashion than with a beautiful set of fall nail trends? Here are 50 of the best fall nail designs to inspire you for your next afternoon tea session. Keep scrolling!

ALL ANGLES

Go for a geometric vibe in tonal, autumnal hues. Choose colors like burnt orange, deep plum, and forest green to create a modern and sophisticated look. Opt for clean lines and simple shapes to create a geometric nail design that is both eye-catching and understated. 

HOT CHOCOLATE

Match your mani to your favorite fall beverage of choice. Imagine cozying up with a pumpkin spice latte while your nails sport a warm, burnt orange shade that perfectly complements the season. Or perhaps you prefer a deep, rich burgundy to mirror the hues of your favorite mulled wine. For a more subtle nod to autumn, try a creamy latte-inspired beige that adds a touch of elegance to your look.

MOONS AND STARS

The perfect mani to wear under the Harvest Moon. Imagine a deep, shimmery gold polish that captures the essence of the moon’s glow. Or a rich, midnight blue that mirrors the night sky, adorned with tiny specks of glitter to mimic the stars. For a more whimsical touch, try a combination of moon and star nail art, bringing a piece of the celestial scene right to your fingertips.

MOODY MARBLE

This moody emerald green marble mani is just begging to be photographed holding a PSL. The deep, swirling hues of green create a stunning contrast against the warm tones of the pumpkin spice latte, making for an Instagram-worthy shot. The rich, luxurious color palette perfectly captures the essence of fall, blending elegance with a touch of mystery. Add a cozy knit sweater to the mix, and you have the ultimate autumn aesthetic.

3-D GLITZ

Sparkles shouldn’t just be reserved for the holidays. Add 3-D details for a trendy twist. Think tiny, shimmering stars that catch the light with every move, giving your nails a magical, celestial vibe. Incorporate gem accents to elevate the look, adding a touch of luxury and glamour. This eye-catching design can transform any manicure into a statement piece, perfect for any season or occasion.

FRENCH PRESS

Repeat after me: Brown isn’t boring. Just look how chic this coffee-inspired French style is. The warm, rich tones of mocha and espresso create a sophisticated and elegant look. Pair it with a matte finish for a modern twist or add a touch of shimmer for a bit of glam. This versatile color palette is perfect for any occasion, proving that brown can be anything but dull.

BOLD RED

Bold red nails are the perfect statement for fall, effortlessly capturing the season’s rich and vibrant hues. This classic color adds a touch of elegance and confidence to any outfit, making it a versatile choice for both casual and formal occasions. As the leaves turn and the days grow shorter, a striking red manicure can bring warmth and energy to your look. 

MARTINI MANI

Whether you’re a martini lover or more of an eat-the-olives-out-of-the-jar kind of gal (or both), this mani is meant for you. The sleek, olive green shade is sophisticated yet playful, perfect for any occasion. Accent it with tiny silver or gold details to mimic the shimmer of a martini glass. This versatile look is both chic and fun, making it a go-to choice for all olive enthusiasts.

GLITTER OMBRÉ

Glitter ombré nails are a dazzling choice for fall, combining the season’s rich tones with a touch of sparkle. This trend seamlessly blends subtle gradients with shimmering accents, creating a look that’s both sophisticated and eye-catching. Perfect for adding a bit of glam to your autumn wardrobe, glitter ombré nails transition beautifully from day to night.  Approve this stylish and festive manicure to capture the essence of fall with a hint of magical sparkle.

FALL FLORALS

Fall floral nails are a delightful way to celebrate the season, bringing the beauty of autumn blooms to your fingertips. This trend combines warm, earthy tones with intricate floral designs, capturing the essence of fall’s natural elegance. Perfect for those who love a touch of nature-inspired art, fall floral nails add a unique and artistic flair to any look.

MULTICOLOR SWIRLS

Multicolor swirls are a playful and dynamic option for fall nails, blending the season’s rich palette into mesmerizing patterns. This trend features a mix of warm autumn hues like deep reds, burnt oranges, and golden yellows, creating a vibrant and eye-catching effect. Perfect for those who love bold and artistic designs, multicolor swirls add a touch of whimsy and creativity to your fall manicure. Accept the lively spirit of autumn with these swirling patterns, and let your nails become a canvas for the season’s beauty.

CELESTIAL FRENCH

Celestial French nails are a sophisticated and enchanting choice for fall, combining the classic French manicure with dreamy, celestial elements. This trend features delicate stars, moons, and constellations adorning the tips, often in metallic or glittery finishes that add a touch of magic. The neutral base color perfectly complements the intricate celestial designs, making it a versatile and elegant option for any occasion. 

PUMPKIN SPICE

Pumpkin spice nails are the ultimate tribute to fall, capturing the cozy and warm essence of the season’s favorite flavor. This trend features rich, earthy tones like deep oranges, warm browns, and hints of golden yellow, reminiscent of a delicious pumpkin spice latte. Perfect for those who love embracing autumn’s coziness, pumpkin spice nails add a festive and comforting touch to your look. Celebrate the season with these inviting hues and let your nails reflect the comforting, spicy vibes of fall.

ESPRESSO SHADES

Espresso shades are a chic and sophisticated choice for fall nails, offering a rich and deep color palette that mirrors the essence of your favorite coffee. These shades range from dark browns to creamy mocha tones, capturing the warmth and elegance of a perfect espresso. Ideal for those who appreciate a minimalist yet luxurious look, espresso nails add a touch of refined beauty to your fall style. 

IT’S A PLAID WORLD

Plaid patterns are taking over the fashion world this fall, bringing a timeless and cozy vibe to everything from clothing to accessories. Whether it’s classic tartan, bold buffalo check, or modern variations, plaid adds a touch of rustic charm and sophistication to any look. Perfect for layering, these patterns are versatile enough to be dressed up or down, making them a staple in any fall wardrobe. Embrace the plaid world this season, and let these iconic designs add warmth and style to your autumn outfits.

OPTIC BLACK AND WHITE

Optic black and white nails are a striking and modern choice for fall, offering a bold contrast that stands out against the season’s traditional hues. This trend features intricate geometric patterns, abstract designs, and monochrome swirls that create a visually captivating effect. Perfect for those who love a sophisticated yet edgy look, black and white nails add a touch of high-fashion flair to your autumn style. Wellcome the timeless elegance of this color combination and let your nails make a statement with their sleek and chic design.

PURPLE CHROME

Purple chrome nails are a stunning and futuristic option for fall, bringing a touch of iridescent brilliance to your manicure. This trend features metallic purple shades that shift and shimmer under different lighting, creating a captivating and otherworldly effect. Perfect for those who want to make a bold and glamorous statement, purple chrome nails add a unique twist to the traditional fall palette. Cherish the enchanting allure of this vibrant hue and let your nails shine with a mesmerizing, chrome finish this autumn.

AUTUMNAL AURA

Autumnal aura nails capture the essence of fall with a beautiful blend of warm and earthy tones inspired by the changing leaves. This trend incorporates shades of burnt orange, deep burgundy, rich gold, and forest green, evoking the cozy and inviting spirit of the season. Celebrate the magic of fall with autumnal aura nails, and let your hands reflect the vibrant and serene atmosphere of this beloved season.

MOCHA SWIRLS

Mocha swirls are a delightful and cozy choice for fall nails, bringing the warmth and richness of your favorite coffee to your fingertips. This trend features creamy brown shades intertwined in elegant, swirling patterns that evoke the comforting feel of a freshly brewed mocha. Perfect for those who appreciate a subtle yet sophisticated look, mocha swirl nails add a touch of indulgence and charm to your autumn style. 

BLACK CHROME

Black chrome nails are a bold and edgy choice for fall, offering a sleek and futuristic look that stands out against the season’s typical colors. This trend features a reflective, metallic finish that adds depth and drama to any manicure, making it perfect for those who want to make a statement. The rich, dark hue combined with the chrome effect creates a sophisticated and modern aesthetic that pairs well with any autumn outfit. 

GUNMETAL TIPS

Gunmetal tips are a chic and contemporary option for fall nails, adding a touch of metallic sophistication to your manicure. This trend features a dark, steely gray hue that is both edgy and versatile, perfect for accentuating any fall outfit. Whether paired with a neutral base or more vibrant autumnal colors, gunmetal tips create a striking contrast that exudes modern elegance. 

TORTOISE TIPS

Tortoise tips are a stylish and timeless choice for fall nails, bringing a touch of classic sophistication to your manicure. This trend mimics the rich and varied patterns of tortoiseshell, combining warm caramel, amber, and chocolate hues in a marbled effect. Perfect for those who appreciate a subtle yet luxurious look, tortoise tips add a layer of depth and elegance to any fall ensemble. 

SIDE SWIPE

Side swipe nails are a fun and dynamic choice for fall, offering a modern twist on traditional nail designs. This trend features bold, diagonal swipes of color that can range from vibrant autumn hues to more muted, earthy tones, creating a striking contrast and visual interest. Ideal for those who want to play with patterns and colors, side swipe nails can be customized to suit any style or outfit. 

BUTTERFLY FRENCH

Butterfly French nails are a whimsical and enchanting choice for fall, adding a touch of delicate beauty to your manicure. This trend incorporates intricate butterfly designs into the classic French tip, often using autumnal colors like deep oranges, browns, and golds to evoke the seasons charm.  Accept the magical allure of butterfly accents and let your nails flutter with the graceful essence of fall.

LEOPARD PRINT FRENCH

Leopard Print French nails are a bold and stylish choice for fall, bringing a touch of wild sophistication to your manicure. This trend combines the classic French tip with the fierce and trendy leopard print, using earthy tones like browns, golds, and blacks to capture the essence of the season. Welcome the adventurous spirit of leopard patterns and let your nails roar with confidence and style this autumn.

DARK SIDE OF THE MOON

Dark Side of the Moon nails are a captivating and mysterious choice for fall, perfect for those who love a touch of the dramatic. This trend features deep, moody shades like midnight blue, charcoal, and black, often accented with subtle metallic or holographic details to mimic the ethereal beauty of the night sky. 

IN THE STARS

In the Stars nails are a dreamy and celestial choice for fall, perfect for those who adore a touch of cosmic wonder. This trend features designs inspired by the night sky, incorporating elements like constellations, stars, and shimmering galaxies in shades of deep blue, gold, and silver.  

ANIMAL MATTE

Animal Matte nails are a stylish and edgy choice for fall, combining the wild appeal of animal prints with the sophisticated finish of a matte top coat. This trend features patterns like zebra, leopard, or snake print rendered in muted, matte tones, offering a chic and modern twist on classic designs. 

STAINED GLASS

Stained Glass nails are a vibrant and artistic choice for fall, inspired by the intricate beauty of stained glass windows. This trend involves creating colorful, mosaic-like patterns on your nails, often using rich autumnal hues such as deep reds, oranges, and golds. Perfect for those who appreciate a touch of art and creativity, Stained Glass nails add a unique and eye-catching element to your look. 

AUTUMNAL ORANGE

Autumnal Orange nails are a warm and inviting choice for the fall season, capturing the essence of autumn leaves and cozy vibes. This trend features rich shades of orange, from deep pumpkin to vibrant tangerine, often accented with subtle gold or copper details for added depth. Celebrate the changing leaves and crisp air with nails that reflect the vibrant and comforting tones of autumn.

FAUX FRENCH

Faux French for fall is a stylish twist on the classic French manicure. Instead of the usual white tips, use warm autumn colors like deep reds, oranges, or browns. This gives your nails a cozy and seasonal look, perfect for the cooler weather. It’s an easy way to update your manicure and stay on trend this fall.

NEGATIVE-SPACE SILVER

Negative-space silver for fall nails is a chic and modern look. This style leaves parts of your nail bare, with sleek silver accents creating a unique design. The silver pops against the natural nail, making it perfect for fall’s cool tones. It’s an easy way to make a bold statement without being too flashy.

CANDY LAND

Candy Land for fall nails brings playful colors and fun designs to your manicure. Think bright oranges, deep purples, and soft pinks that remind you of your favorite candies. Add swirls, dots, or stripes for a whimsical touch that captures the spirit of fall festivities. It’s a sweet way to express yourself and brighten up your look as the season changes.

TANGERINE TIPS

Tangerine Tips for fall nails add a burst of vibrant color to your manicure. Use a bright tangerine shade on the tips of your nails, resembling the fruit’s juicy color. This look is fresh and lively, perfect for brightening up the cooler autumn days. It’s a simple yet bold style choice that’s sure to stand out.

CHOCOLATE DREAMS

Chocolate Dreams for fall nails bring a rich and indulgent vibe to your manicure. Imagine deep brown shades that resemble luxurious chocolate. This color choice adds warmth and sophistication to your fall look. It’s a deliciously stylish way to embrace the cozy vibes of the season.

MAGIC METALLIC

Magic Metallic for fall nails gives a touch of shimmer and shine to your manicure. Think of metallic shades like silver, gold, or bronze that catch the light. These colors add a glamorous and festive feel to your nails during the fall season. It’s an elegant choice that brings a bit of magic to your fingertips.

GOLD ACCENTS

Gold accents for fall nails add a touch of luxury and warmth to your manicure. Use gold polish to create delicate designs like stripes, dots, or half moons. These accents complement fall colors like deep reds, oranges, and browns beautifully. They add a festive and sophisticated flair to your autumn nail look.

EDGY FRENCH

Edgy French for fall nails puts a modern twist on a classic style. Instead of white tips, try bold colors like dark blue, deep purple, or matte black. This look is stylish and versatile, perfect for adding a touch of edge to your fall wardrobe. It’s a chic way to update your manicure for the cooler months ahead.

CLASSIC TORTOISE

Classic tortoise for fall nails mimics the rich, earthy tones of tortoiseshell patterns. Use shades like warm browns, deep oranges, and dark greens to achieve this look. It’s a sophisticated and timeless choice that adds elegance to your fall manicure. This style pairs well with both casual and formal outfits, making it a versatile option for the season.

SPOOKY SEASON

Spooky season for fall nails embraces Halloween vibes with playful and eerie designs. Think of black cats, ghostly whites, and pumpkin oranges as your color palette. Add fun details like spider webs, bats, or jack-o’-lantern faces for a festive touch. It’s a fun way to celebrate the season and show off your Halloween spirit on your fingertips.

MINI MUSHROOMS

Mini mushrooms for fall nails bring a whimsical and natural charm to your manicure. Picture tiny mushroom designs in earthy colors like beige, brown, or forest green. These adorable details evoke the coziness of autumn forests. It’s a cute and playful nail art idea that captures the spirit of fall adventures.

WITCHY WINE

Witchy wine for fall nails captures the mysterious and deep tones of autumn. Imagine shades like dark plum, burgundy, or deep wine red. These colors give your nails a rich and sophisticated look, perfect for cooler weather. It’s a bold and elegant choice that adds a touch of allure to your fall style.

GOING BAROQUE

Going Baroque for fall nails embraces ornate and luxurious designs. Think of intricate patterns inspired by Baroque art, like swirls, scrolls, and delicate lace-like details. Use rich colors such as deep purples, royal blues, and antique golds to create a regal look. This style adds a touch of opulence and elegance to your fall manicure.

MILKY WHITE 

Milky white for fall nails offers a clean and sophisticated look. This soft and creamy shade complements fall outfits and adds a subtle elegance to your appearance. It’s versatile, matching well with any color scheme or style you choose to wear. The understated beauty of milky white nails makes them a timeless choice for the autumn season.

ACCENT JEWELS

Accent jewels for fall nails add a touch of glamour and sparkle to your manicure. Think of using small, shimmering gems or metallic studs as accents on one or two nails. These details catch the light and create a chic and festive look for the season. It’s an easy way to elevate your nail design and make a stylish statement this fall.

TWO TONES

Two tones for fall nails create a stylish and dynamic look. Choose two complementary colors like burgundy and gold, or navy blue and silver. Paint each nail with one color, alternating or mixing them for a modern twist. It’s a fun way to play with color and add interest to your fall manicure.

ON BRAND

On brand for fall nails means embracing the colors and themes of the season. Think deep reds, oranges, browns, and dark greens that reflect autumn foliage. Add leaf designs, acorns, or cozy sweater patterns for a seasonal touch. It’s a stylish way to coordinate your nails with the cozy vibes of fall.

JUST THE TIPS 

Just the tips for fall nails involves painting only the tips of your nails in a contrasting or complementary color. Choose autumn-inspired shades like burnt orange, deep plum, or metallic gold for a chic look. This minimalist style adds a subtle pop of color without overwhelming your overall manicure. It’s an easy and stylish way to update your nails for the fall season.

RAINBOW IRIDESCENT

Rainbow iridescent for fall nails brings a playful and colorful vibe to your manicure. Imagine nails shimmering with hues of blue, green, purple, and pink, reminiscent of a rainbow. This iridescent effect catches the light beautifully, adding a touch of magic to your fall look. It’s a fun and eye-catching choice that brightens up gloomy autumn days.

MIX AND MATCH 

Mix and match for fall nails allows you to experiment with different colors and designs on each nail. Try pairing warm tones like mustard yellow with deep burgundy or forest green with metallic bronze. This eclectic style adds personality and creativity to your manicure, perfect for expressing your unique style. It’s a fun way to embrace the diversity of fall colors and create a playful nail look.

SPACE DYE

Space dye for fall nails involves blending multiple colors in a marbled or gradient effect, resembling the patterns of space or galaxies. Use shades like deep blues, purples, and hints of silver or gold to create a cosmic look. This design adds a sense of mystery and intrigue to your nails, perfect for the autumn season. It’s a creative and eye-catching choice that captures the beauty of the night sky on your fingertips.

CONCLUSION

As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, there’s no better way to embrace the fall season than with a delightful afternoon tea and perfectly manicured nails. From rich jewel tones to cozy knit textures, the 50 fall nail ideals showcased here offer endless inspiration for elevating your teatime experience. Whether you prefer a classic and elegant look or something bold and trendy, these designs are sure to add a touch of luxury and sophistication to your autumnal gatherings. So, indulge in your favorite treats, sip on a warm cup of tea, and let your nails be the star of the show!

CREAMY VEGAN MUSHROOM STROGANOFF

This vegan mushroom stroganoff is the ultimate comfort food! Bursting with umami, rich flavor, and an irresistibly creamy texture, it’s so delicious you won’t believe it’s dairy-free and completely vegan.

INGREDIENTS

  • 3-4 tablespoons olive oil*, divided
  • 2 large leeks or 3 medium leeks
  • 20 ounces (560g) mixed mushrooms (see “Ingredient Rundown” for details)
  • 6 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, roughly chopped, or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Kosher salt
  • 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons tamari or soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon vegan Worcestershire sauce (optional)
  • 1/4 cup (~30g) all-purpose flour**
  • 1/2 cup (~120 ml) dry white wine (e.g., Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
  • 1 (13.5-ounce/400 ml) can full-fat coconut milk
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dijon or coarse-grain mustard
  • 12 ounces (340g) pasta of choice
  • 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

INSTRUCTIONS

  • Prepare the Mushrooms: Use a paper towel or clean kitchen cloth to wipe off any dirt. Depending on the mushroom type, slice them or tear them by hand (oyster and maitake are easier to tear).
  • Prepare the Leeks: Trim the dark green tops of the leeks, reserving them for broth if desired. Slice each leek lengthwise, then cut horizontally into thick slices. Leeks often contain a lot of dirt, so submerge the chopped pieces in a bowl of cold water, agitate with your hands to loosen dirt, and lift out the leeks with your hands or a slotted spoon. Pat them dry.
  • Cook the Mushrooms and Leeks (First Batch): In a large sauté pan with deep sides or a Dutch oven, heat 1 1/2 to 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium-high. When the oil is shimmering, add half the mushrooms and leeks. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are well-browned.
  • Add Aromatics: Lower the heat to medium, add half the garlic, half the thyme, and 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt. Cook for 2-4 minutes, until the mushrooms become crispy and fragrant. Transfer this batch to a plate or bowl.
  • Cook the Second Batch: Repeat with the remaining olive oil, mushrooms, leeks, garlic, thyme, and salt.
  • Make the Vegetable Broth Roux: While mushrooms are cooking, whisk together the vegetable broth, tamari, Worcestershire sauce (if using), and flour in a bowl until smooth and clump-free.
  • Deglaze the Pan: Pour the white wine into the pan with the cooked mushrooms and use a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape up any browned bits. Let the wine simmer for about 3 minutes until most of the alcohol evaporates.
  • Combine and Simmer the Sauce: Add the vegetable broth roux to the pan, whisking until smooth. Bring to a simmer, then add the coconut milk, tahini, nutritional yeast, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and paprika. Simmer on medium-low for 10 minutes, until the sauce is thick and creamy.
  • Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and keep warm.
  • Finish the Sauce and Serve: Stir the Dijon mustard into the sauce, then toss in the hot pasta and chopped dill. Mix well to coat.
  • Plate and Garnish: Serve the pasta in bowls, topping each with some of the crispy mushroom-leek mixture from the first batch and a sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley.

Notes

*If using a Dutch oven or ceramic pan, you may need extra oil. **For gluten-free instructions, refer to the “how to make this recipe gluten-free” section.