Autumn is in full swing, and we’re really embracing it this year. There’s a crisp autumn chill in the air that has us reaching for wooly knits, but it’s not rainy enough to have to wear a waterproof jacket just yet. And this kind of perfect autumn weather means we can actually embrace all of the trends we’re desperate to try—both in fashion and in beauty—without risk of being rain-sodden or too windswept. And while we’ve already pinpointed the top autumn trends of the season, it’s time to dig into the details. First stop: nails. And more specifically, the eight autumn nail trends we’re seeing everywhere right now and can’t get enough of.
Sure, we can get a pretty good steer on cool nail microtrends by scrolling through Instagram, but nothing beats an expert opinion, which is why we tapped some of our favourite pros for their insight into the nail trends that are dominating the beauty world in autumn 2022.
Below, you’ll find eight autumn nail trends that will make your next manicure anything but boring.
Aura nail art is the nail trend that is currently giving us good vibes, says nail technician Audrey at Manikur. “They’re one of my current faves, and I’ve been seeing this design everywhere. I’ve been experimenting with blooming gel for various designs, including nail art similar to aura nails, but I’m currently looking into getting my hands on an airbrush tool,” she says.
Aura nails on Dina Asher-Smith by Tinu Bello. Experiment with different colours and placements of auras.
This colour-changing polish is temperature reactive—it’s like a mood ring for your nails.
Optical-illusion nails are the trend that is making us do a double take on our Instagram feeds right now. “I find these ombré illusion nails so mesmerising,” says Audrey. “I’m not surprised these designs are emerging, as they’re quite similar to aura nails and involve a lot of blending and fading to create these looks.”
Turn the traditional French manicure on its head by experimenting with the placement of your French tips.
Try different tones of the same hue on each nail for an eye-catching nail-art effect. We love this matte purple ombré.
A pro is best placed to create this tricky-to-do look, but if you want to experiment at home, then stock up on some nail-art brushes for clean lines.
“Cat-eye or velvet nails have been popping up on my feed everywhere,” says Audrey. “I find anything from holographic to cat-eye shimmer super popular right now, as it’s really simple but very eye-catching.” The three-dimensional look is usually created by using a magnet over a reactive polish, which creates the velvet, cat-eye effect.
We’re also seeing lots of different shades of velvet nails, including this mesmerising electric blue.
These polishes from Nails Inc magically morph underneath a magnet and come in several shades.
“Also referred to as the Hailey Bieber nails, glazed nails have been the most popular of them all,” says Audrey. “Though it took some time to find the right technique and products to ensure this mani lasts (powders are notorious for peeling if not applied correctly), this design has been a winner for my clients, both who love nail art and those who are just branching out,” she says, saying this trend is also a great alternative to negative-space nails.
Glazed nails have been most popular in neutral tones, but why not experiment with unexpected colours for autumn?
Can’t get hold of a chrome powder? This glazed topcoat gives a similar effect.
“I have noticed more and more of my clients are loving anything constellation or cosmos related, especially with a growing interest in astrology,” says Audrey. In fact, searches for celestial-inspired sun and moon nails are up 30% on Pinterest, so they’re bound to be a huge trend as the nights draw in and the party season approaches.
We’re saving this manicure for our Halloween nails and beyond into party season.
Gold nail decals make tapping into the celestial nail trend a breeze.
“We’re taking inspiration from classic Pucci prints and decorating our nails in wavy designs and swirly patterns,” says Carla Opoku, founder of Cienna Rose. “Go for autumnal shades in mocha, taupe, spiced pumpkin and maroon.”
Seventies-inspired swirls work brilliantly as negative-space nail art, and any colour combination works.
A rich, autumnal taupe acts as the perfect base shade or complementary hue to brighter colours.
“Metallics always make a bit of a return come autumn, but this season, they’re very pared-back and minimal,” explains Opoku. “Muted bases in pinks and beige tones have a smattering of sparkle or foil, making nails look very chic and wearable—a minimalist mani at its finest!”
Layer up this iridescent yellow-gold for a full-on metallic shine, or apply just one coat for a sheer hint of colour.
Deep green has been cropping up a lot on our Instagram feeds, and the top nail technicians are opting for glossy, moody greens on their clients’ fingertips.
Try deep khaki for an autumnal twist on bright green.
We’re totally green with envy for this nail colour.
