By the middle of October, my saved nail folder starts looking a lot like my fall wardrobe. Animal prints? Absolutely. Plaid? Yes, that too. There's even an olive green manicure in the mix that has me contemplating a polish color I don't reach for nearly enough. At this point, my nail appointments are starting to double as my wardrobe forecasting.
But here's the thing about October nail inspiration: It can get very Halloween, very fast. I appreciate a tiny ghost as much as anyone, but I don't always want my manicure to come with an expiration date of November 1. This week, I've been gravitating toward designs that embrace fall without being quite so literal. A little seasonal color, some unexpected pattern mixing, and plenty of inspiration borrowed straight from the fashion world.
Of course, there are a few playful designs in the mix, too. That's half the fun of nail art, after all. Whether you're in the mood for something elaborate that requires a seriously talented nail artist or a simple polish change you can manage at home, I've rounded up eight looks worth saving before your next appointment.
It-Girl Nails
How many fall fashion trends can fit into one manicure? Apparently, quite a few. Tortoiseshell, zebra print, plaid, and a pop of chartreuse green are all in the mix, and I'm obsessed with how good they look together. Consider this the It girl of fall nail art.
Scenic Route
The color palette of a fall landscape, captured in a cat-eye manicure. The rich autumnal shades are gorgeous on their own, but it's that impossibly shiny, almost glass-like finish that really gets me. I swear, I could stare at these nails all day.
Brownie Points
Chocolate brown nails? Already one of my favorite ways to do a darker fall manicure. But add a little sparkle, and I'm completely sold. The subtle shimmer running through this rich brown shade gives it such an expensive-looking finish, without needing any elaborate nail art.
Olive Hour
I'll take my martini extra dirty and my nails olive green, please. Of all the shades I tend to forget about until fall rolls around, olive is high on the list. It's a little more unexpected than the usual burgundies and browns, which is probably why I'm so drawn to it.
Apple Orchard
Apple picking, but make it a manicure. I'm all for embracing the more charming parts of fall, especially when the result is as cute as this. And who said seasonal nail art has to involve pumpkins or ghosts?
Wild Card
Sometimes all an outfit needs is a good animal-print manicure. Seriously, imagine this with your favorite jeans and a plain white tee. No other accessories necessary.
Check, Please
Plaid has practically taken over my fall fashion inspiration, so naturally, it's made its way onto my nail inspo list, too. While the print can feel quite traditional on clothing, there's something cool and artistic about seeing it recreated on a manicure.
Black Tie
A black French manicure might just be my favorite way to wear dark nails. The subtle contrast between the base and tips gives the classic French a completely different personality. It's understated enough for everyday wear, but still has a little edge. Love, love, love.
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