6 Autumn Nail Trends That Will Be Everywhere This Season

I can’t quite believe it, but I’m actually wearing a jumper today as I sit at my desk and write this article. It was even raining this morning on my way into work, which means I’m certainly feeling all of the autumnal vibes. It makes total sense then that I’m here to talk about this autumn’s biggest nail trends.

The change in seasons often means a change in trending nail colours and nail art, with expert nail artists gravitating towards deeper hues such as burgundy and navy blue. That said, every year I feel like there’s a bunch of new autumn nail trends to sink our teeth into, and 2026 is no different.

After reaching out to Metta Francis, London-based manicurist and founder of Nails by Mets, I got the full lowdown on the upcoming season’s biggest looks, and there are plenty of new manicures to try. If you don’t want to stray too far from the usual autumn shades, there are lots of fun nail polish colours for you to play with, but if you prefer something soft and natural-looking, you are still spoilt for choice. Although I could share so many different looks with you, thanks to the help of Francis, I’ve rounded it down to the six biggest looks to know about this season. Just keep scrolling…

6 of the Biggest Autumn Nail Trends 2026

1. Midnight Blue

A close-up shot of a midnight blue manicure

First up, this dreamy midnight blue nail polish colour. “Almost black but not quite, midnight blue looks and feels luxurious and chic,” explains Francis. “An easy-to-wear autumn shade, don’t be afraid to have some fun with this mysterious hue”. Francis suggests trying midnight blue French tips on longer nails, or even a midnight blue half-moon design for those of you with shorter nails.

Get the Look:

Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Nail Polish, Midnight Drive

Sally Hansen

Insta-Dri Nail Polish Midnight Drive

Nail Polish

H&M

Nail Polish Midnight Sky

2. Gilded Gold

A gold French tip manicure

Metallics are big news this season, especially when it comes to gold manicures. Francis tells me that everything from full-coverage gold nails to gilded gold tips and accent gold nail art will be popular. “Highly pigmented gold nail polishes, chromes and foils will help to achieve this look, as seen at the Sergio Hudson A/W26 and Chanel Haute Couture A/W26 shows,” she explains.

Get the Look:

CHANEL LE VERNIS 157 - PHÉNIX

CHANEL

Le Vernis 157 Phénix

Gold

Manucurist

Gold Nail Polish

3. Naked Nails

A neat, natural-looking manicure on short nails

In contrast to the design above, if you’re looking for a subtle autumn nail design, why not try the naked nail trend? As explained by Francis, this trend leans into short, naturally shaped, low-maintenance nails. “[You can use] a natural colour to enhance the natural nail but with a matte finish for a true ‘barely there’ look,” she says. “Essie’s To The Rescue is the perfect product for this, and also helps to strengthen and revitalise damaged nails.”

Get the Look:

Essie to the Rescue Uv Gel Damage Repair Nail Treatment 13.5ml

Essie

To The Rescue UV Gel Damage Repair Nail Treatment

Nailberry Au Naturel Oxygenated Nail Lacquer

Nailberry

Au Naturel Oxygenated Nail Lacquer

4. Pretty Plum

A close-up shot of a deep plum manicure

How stunning is this rich plum colour? “An alternative to the classic burgundy, rich, deep, jewel-toned plums are the perfect shades to welcome the colder months,” says Francis. “A staple autumnal hue that will work from day to night.”