“Burgundy is such a timeless fall and winter shade, but there are so many ways to give it a fresh, modern twist,” says celebrity manicurist Erica De Los Santos. “I love incorporating subtle gold accents to elevate the color and add a touch of elegance.” Another way to make it stand out this season is the “privacy screen” trend. “By mixing magnetic cat eye effects with rich bordeaux tones, you can create a multidimensional look that shifts beautifully in the light. It’s a great way to make a classic seasonal hue feel entirely unique," De Los Santos explains.

To embrace this confidence-boosting hue, try a deep, moody crimson like Dior’s 047 Nuit 1947, or opt for Essie’s Half Full—a translucent purple-red lacquer that taps into the jelly nail trend. Still need a bit more inspiration? Below, discover 17 chic burgundy nail ideas to save for your next salon appointment.

Classic Crimson

Consider this vibrant, deep red your ultimate seasonal transition. It’s bold enough to command attention on its own, needing little more than a glossy topcoat for a high-shine, mirror finish. It’s a welcome shift from the tomato reds of early fall without feeling too dark.

Dark Cherry

These polka dot nails balance playful charm with chic sophistication. The warm, reddish-brown base paired with silvery-white polka dots delivers a bright pop of contrast for an eye-catching look.

Wine Red

Just like a chilled glass of red, this beautiful shade is always a good idea. It strikes the perfect balance—not too dark and not too bright—making it the ideal color if you’re not quite ready to commit to a deep, moody hue.

Claret

To lighten things up (just a tad), reach for this rich burgundy polish. It’s a great transitional color, guaranteed to pair perfectly with every festive soirée on your calendar this year.

Twilight Burgundy

I love this striking, detailed design on a deep purple-red base. Featuring silver stud accents on one hand and burgundy stars on the other, it’s a guaranteed conversation starter for your next party.

Oxblood

“This rich, almost-black burgundy is absolutely stunning,” says De Los Santos. “I like how deep and dramatic it is while still maintaining that classic, sophisticated elegance. It’s a timeless color that never goes out of style—especially during the fall and winter months.”

Sweet Sangria

This versatile berry-bordeaux shade serves up a bright, universally flattering pop of color. It’s the ultimate low-effort, high-impact look—and it pairs particularly well with chunky gold jewelry.

Bold Bordeaux

Elevate this trend with a fresh, graphic twist. Solid-colored nails are beautifully balanced by two accent nails featuring thick-tipped French manicures and sleek gold lines. It’s a bold, clean look that’s guaranteed to stand out.

Ruby Wine

Make a bold style statement with this deep, blackish-red manicure. It gives short nails an edgy, modern vibe (definitely bookmarking this one for inspo), but looks equally stunning on a long almond shape.

Burgundy Chrome

Chrome isn’t going anywhere—it’s just getting a seasonal upgrade. This deep, moody base brings the drama while the pearlescent finish catches the light with every move. Pro tip: Layer this polish over any color or wear it solo to get the look at home.

Dark Cranberry

If you prefer to skip the nail art, this vivid hue stands beautifully on its own. Think of it as a modern upgrade to the timeless “vamp manicure.”

Pinot Noir

This square burgundy manicure is elegant, understated, and ideal for the season ahead. Recreate the look with OPI’s On The Sweet List, a sultry garnet shade with maroon undertones.

Smoked Burgundy

Add a touch of drama to your nails with this deep red hue that borders on black. I’m absolutely obsessed with this look paired with bold silver jewelry.

Deep Merlot

Opting for a single, rich color feels instantly luxe and elevated. This particular lacquer balances subtle berry undertones with a deep base for striking dimension.

Delicate Dots

If you want to switch up a solid-colored mani, add delicate polka-dot detailing on an accent nail or two. Even better, if you want to skip the DIY, press-ons deliver this exact look with minimal effort.

Cabernet

This unique shade balances a translucent purplish hue with warm red undertones and a glassy shine. Apply two to three coats for a gorgeous berry color that speaks for itself.

Burgundy Cat Eye

Offset a rich bordeaux lacquer with cat eye accent nails, where a light-reflecting streak creates a mesmerizing color shift with every movement. It’s an elegant alternative to chunky glitter or bold geometric designs, keeping your manicure understated yet distinctive.

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Thankfully, the internet and just about every nail artist I know agree with me. Winter 2027 nail trends follow this motto: “the glitzier, the better,” says Signourney Nuñez, a nail artist based in Los Angeles. U.K.-based nail artist Lizzie Trow says her clients have moved past traditional festive motifs like candy-cane stripes and bows. “Clients are asking for more of an abstract version of festive,” she says.

This season, expect vamped-up versions of designs that have trended in the past. The ever-popular cat eye is still on top this winter, but with a more blinding, icy effect. Animal prints are roaring, though we’re swapping the dainty Bambi look for a more maximalist, edgier zebra print. “It will be a return to glamour, extravagance, and beautifully sculpted nails,” says Max Estrada, a nail artist and founder of eNailCouture in Tucson, Arizona, who references New York and Paris circa 1987, with “fabulous faux-fur coats, vintage Schiaparelli, dramatic evening wear as the vibe.”

If you won’t settle for anything less than jaw-dropping manicures this winter, keep reading for the glitzy, glamorous designs experts say are worth the effort.

Celestial Nails

Some like to believe fate is written in the stars. I’m not as convinced, but I’ll admit there’s something mystical and alluring about the celestial realm. Everyone else seems to think so, too, since starry nail designs are showing up all over my social feeds. “This winter is all about anything shimmery,” says Trow. This ethereal spin on classic star designs gives you just the right dose of sparkle to turn your nails into the best accessory. Add dainty moon and sun designs to bring a whole galaxy to life on your nails.

Animal Print Nails

It feels like just yesterday Bambi-core was taking over our fall feeds. This winter, nail artists say animal print is back, but much louder. We’re trading demure doe-inspired designs for maximalist looks like zebra and leopard. Trow says her favorite way to wear the trend is to paint zebra stripes in jewel tones and mix in shimmering cat-eye for a mystical finish.

Icy Cat Eye Nails

Cat eye has been at the top of the nail trend leaderboard for several years now, but experts say winter 2026 will be the shiniest we’ve ever seen it. Nuñez says a more velvety finish is the most popular way to wear the magnetic polish now. Instead of big particles of sparkle, brands are releasing cat eye polishes with finer shimmer particles, creating that super shiny, almost icy effect. Expect to see cat eye polishes in cool shades of blue and silver, worked into 3D designs like ribbed nails for a mani that’s festive without being cheesy.

Privacy Screen Nails

Winter is the season to lean into your moodier, more sultry side, and privacy screen nails are the perfect way to do it. This trend creates the illusion of a veil using a cat eye polish that shifts color with light and movement.

Most nail artists begin by coating the nail with a dark gel polish base, then add a layer of cat eye polish. Next, they apply a matte topcoat to create a blurred effect and let it cure before painting on a design, also in a dark color. The result is a trippy manicure that reveals the design when you bend your fingers one way and conceals it when you tilt them another way.

I’ve been seeing this trend done with different animal prints, but my favorite iteration so far is a seductive dark lace design. It’s like lingerie for your nails.

Isolated Chrome

As the owner of Vanity Projects, a nail salon with locations in Miami and New York City, Rita Pinto has plenty of insight into the most-requested nail designs each season. This winter, she says, isolated chrome is the most popular in her salons. “Using the chrome over these designs results in a gorgeous effect,” Pinto says.

While it looks as simple as painting a thin outline design with a thick gel polish and letting it dry before buffing on a chrome polish. Pinto says the technique can actually get a little complicated. You’re probably better off saving your favorite inspo picture and taking it to your nail artist.

Color Block Manis

Remember when we were all afraid of wearing clashing colors? Thank goodness we grew out of that, because color blocking is one of the most stylish ways to make a statement, especially on your nails. While this trend may feel a little 2016, Pinto says it’s having a big resurgence. Nail artists are splashing bright jewel tones over muted neutrals for a fresh update to color blocking, and it works so well.

If you’re not afraid of a maximalist look, try cat-eye triangles in rich emerald, amethyst, and cardinal painted over darker animal print designs, like nail artist San Sung Kim’s museum-worthy manicure above.

Disappearing French Tips

French tips have always been the classy option on nail salon menus, but this winter’s version of the look elevates it from classy to opulent. “A crisp, defined smile line is still very much in demand, but we’re now seeing more variations, including softer, almost invisible French tips,” says Vikki Swan, a nail artist in Los Angeles. This ombré, disappearing French tip creates a diffused, airy manicure that elongates the nail and looks impossibly elegant. Plus, the cool, neutral tones make this mani look right at home in the natural winter color palette.

Plaid Nails

Plaid is a quintessential winter print. The cold weather prompts everyone to reach for their tartan scarves, sweaters, and tablecloths, especially as the holidays approach. Turns out, plaid works equally well, if not better, on your nails. “There’s something about this pattern that feels very right for the season. It’s classic, preppy, a little nostalgic, and suddenly cool again,” says Queenie, who adds that pairing the design with cat eye “gives it a little extra movement and gloss.”

Cat Eye Ombré

For those who are a little timid when it comes to sparkly nails (i.e., me), may I submit cat-eye ombré. These subtle sparkly tips are the perfect way to dip your finger into this trend (pun intended) without going full-blown glitz. I first fell in love with this design last winter, and a year later I’m still seeing it all over my feed.

Molten Chocolate Nails

Brown nails are very fall-coded, and a little boring in my opinion, but Estrada says the warm shade is “evolving far beyond the ordinary autumn brown.” “For winter, I envision bittersweet chocolate, espresso, and deep cocoa [shades] covered in reflective bronze and champagne-gold chrome." Now that sounds more alluring.

To really vamp up this nail look, introduce sculptural gold embellishments, ornate French tips, or tortoiseshell accents. “It’s rich, decadent, and almost edible,” says Estrada.

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And judging by the nail looks I've been saving this week, everyone else seems to be having the same idea. Scalamandré-inspired tiger print is in the mix, along with unexpected color combinations and a whole lot of metallic finishes. Of course, there's still plenty of room for a really good burgundy, too.

I have a feeling the next few weeks will be all about festive reds and anything that sparkles, so I'm appreciating the variety while we've got it. Ahead, nine of my favorite nail looks of the week, whether you're in the mood for something adventurous or just want a fresh take on your usual fall manicure.

After Dark

Halloween may be over, but I certainly did not retire my black nail polish on November 1. If anything, I like it even better now. Especially when it's worn short, extra glossy, and accompanied by a chunky silver ring.

Tigre Fever

Scalamandré's iconic Tigre print is having quite the moment, and frankly, I'm very much part of the obsession. It's all over my interiors inspiration boards, but while I dream about a tiger-print sofa, I'll happily settle for the manicure version. These striped French tips, complete with a sheer pink base, are a much more affordable way to get in on the action.

Star Power

Cherry and grape in November feel a little rebellious when every polish bottle seems to be getting darker. Add oversized baby blue stars, though, and we're in entirely different territory. I'm obsessed.

Penny for Your Thoughts

A shiny new penny, but make it a manicure. The warm copper center catches the light beautifully—it's the kind of cat-eye finish that looks different depending on how you move your hands.

Cosmic Cocktail

Who decided chocolate brown and icy blue belong together? Because I'd like to thank them. There's something almost otherworldly about the way the metallic effect shifts between the two shades, especially with those tiny stars scattered across each nail.

Autumn Sampler

My favorite thing about this manicure is that it makes absolutely no attempt to match. That shimmery sage green next to cranberry red? Surprisingly great. Throw in the warmer metallic shades, and you've got what looks like someone spilled out their entire fall polish collection and picked the best of it.

Seeing Spots

Matcha green isn't exactly what comes to mind when I think about November nails, and that's half the appeal. The pale pink base makes room for oversized burgundy stars, while the teeny polka dots add another layer of fun. Not every manicure needs to take the season so seriously.

Heavy Metal

It's the gold outlining that really gets me. They make the whole thing look like a collection of vintage enamel jewelry. I'd probably spend my next antique-shopping trip looking for rings to match.

Wine-Stained

Some shades of red deserve their own moment, and this deep, wine-stained burgundy is one of them. It's rich without looking almost black, and that glassy, jelly finish makes the color even better.

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For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.

A deep, dark, simple polish is incredibly chic and understated, but it isn’t the only way to pull off black nails. In fact, there are so many black nail ideas—from classic French tips and half moons to unexpected color combinations. “Black is more than just a statement color; it is also a versatile base for creating depth, contrast, and dimension. It can make a manicure look bold and edgy, yet sophisticated and artistic when paired with the right finishes and details,” explains Sandra Wei, founder of Peach Bling Salon in New York. “Its dark background provides a strong visual foundation that allows other elements to stand out, making it ideal for both minimalist designs and more intricate nail art.”

Keep reading to discover 17 black nail ideas, plus insights from celebrity nail artists on how to incorporate the color into your fall manicure.

Black and Blue

What's black and blue all over? Hopefully nothing besides this very cute manicure. Mixed finishes—like the velvet and glossy polishes present here—have been such a thing recently and this look showcases the perfect way to add black polish to the mix.

Black Cat Eye

Another option in the black-and-blue realm: a black-and-blue cat-eye polish look. "The deep black background combined with shifting blue magnetic shimmer creates incredible depth, reminiscent of a starry night sky. Small rhinestone accents can add an extra touch of sparkle while complementing the magnetic effect," says Wei. "To recreate this look at home, start with a smooth black base, then apply a layer of blue cat-eye gel polish. Before curing under a UV/LED lamp, use a magnetic wand to guide the shimmer into the desired pattern. Once the desired effect is achieved, cure the polish and seal it with a glossy top coat."

Simple Black

I can't believe we've made it this far without talking about a simple, classic black mani. "Black nails are great because to me, they look good on ANY length nails and go with everything. It’s such a good neutral nail color but with an edge to it," says Katie Masters, a celebrity nail artist and Nail Thoughts brand founder.

Black Jelly

As Masters explains, you can spice up black nails by using a black cat-eye color so it adds some gorgeous depth and movement, or you can use a jelly black color for a softer, more sheer look. "I’m obsessed with a black jelly nail," the expert adds. "The semi-sheerness of the black adds such a gorgeous glassy effect that gives it so much depth! It’s just a little more magic and unique than just opaque black."

Studs and Bows

Wei notes that black also serves as an "excellent canvas for nail art." Her point is obviously proven here. "Hand-painted designs, chrome accents, and rhinestones create striking contrast against the dark background, making each detail more visible," she explains. "From delicate gems to intricate artwork, black enhances the visual impact of decorative elements and allows creative designs to stand out."

Black and White

Okay...here's another fun question. What's black and white and cute all over? Black and white is obviously a classic color combination, and this design proves you can make it work in so many ways.

Matte Waves

Another reason Masters loves a black mani? "The darkness of the color creates such a crisp and clean look around the cuticle and the free edge of the nail." This shiny-and-matte design is an incredible example. There are so many great things going on with it that you could utilize in a separate look or copy in full—that sharp line of glossy black near the cuticle especially.

To the Bone

You don't have to be in the Halloween spirit to appreciate some funky black nail art. This bone design will add a little edge to your outfit all year round.

Scribbled

It doesn't get more abstract than this when it comes to nail art. This manicure is like if you took your favorite black (or blue!) pen and got to work scribbling on the perfect shiny base—in the cutest way, obviously.

Black and White Dots

Black is a shade that lends itself really well to a polka dot manicure. You can pair the deep shade with any other color to get the look, but white will *always* be a classic.

Nuanced Black

This is a controversial thing to say in a story about black nail ideas, but if you're someone who really doesn't want to go with a black polish...why not try a really deep green, or red, or purple instead? You can get all the same moodiness while sticking to a color you feel comfier with.

Full Metal

You think you've seen edgy already? Nah. This pierced black and vintage silver manicure is proof that things can always get a little funkier in the world of black nail ideas.

Animal Print

If you think about it, animal print often naturally includes shades of black—making it a super easy way to lean into the trend. You don't have to go so far as rocking a velvet tiger stripe print look...but if given the option...

Black Maze

I've talked a lot about black and silver. Let's get into black and gold for a while. These almond-shaped nails painted with a maze of black swirls and little gemstones are so, so cool.

French Tips

Black French tips are so perfect that Marie Claire has a whole collection of ideas dedicated to them. Here are some favorites, but if you're not feeling this set you can browse to your heart's content.

Pottery-Inspired

Two of the best artistic mediums: pottery and nail art. This look combines the energy of both into a super chic abstract design reminiscent of a freshly glazed piece that came straight out of the kiln.

Matte Black Stripes

Last (but certainly not least), we have a mani that makes use of matte black polish and a cutie pastel color palette. It's further proof that the shade can work for anyone—as if you needed any more of that.

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Meet the Experts

The most popular looks of the moment are noticeably darker, come with unexpected textural touches, and are leaning into sparkly finishes like chrome, gold foils, and cat-eye glazes. “I’m loving deep, moody nail colors this month, from translucent plum to rich blackberry red and unexpected metallics,” nail artist Jin Soon Choi tells me. “I’m seeing dark shades across fashion, but it’s the different finishes we’re using on our manicures that make them feel fresh and modern.”

There’s no rulebook for manicures, so treat this trend roundup as a starting point. You can mix and match trends from this list, apply the finishes to a wide range of colors, or just see where inspiration strikes. To get a sense of what’s happening, I tapped Choi and editorial nail artist Miss Pop for the scoop. They broke down which colors are the buzziest ahead.

Pearly Whites

If you’re loyal to light colors, consider this the ultimate way to fall-ify your manicure. “I cannot explain to you the deep obsession I have right now with making my nails look like pearls,” says Miss Pop. “I’ve been layering sparkles; there’s something about the shimmer of a pearl that really speaks to me—not the perfect, pearly chrome finish we see with gel; this is more the honest grit you see with an actual pearl. AI is making us appreciate reality and grit. I think that’s why the iridescent shimmer I’m looking for has some texture to it.”

Jewel Tones With a Twist

A rich emerald or ruby red isn’t necessarily revolutionary in the fall. But! This year, jewel tones have an unexpected companion (or two). “The interesting thing I’m seeing is a jewel tone mixed with a pastel. You’re seeing a pastel purple with maroon. Or a gold with a butter yellow,” says Miss Pop. If you really want to spice things up even more, throw in a cat-eye finish or a French tip.

Jelly Sage

The idea that jelly nails are only for spring and summer is frankly flawed. Miss Pop is rooting for them, specifically in a sage green or jade shade, as the biggest beauty trend of November. “I love the feeling of my nails being these semi-precious stones. There’s something really beautiful and ethereal about making your nails look like precious items from the natural world,” she says. If you can find a shade translucent enough, try just doing one coat and a high-shine top coat.”

Sparkling Brown

Shades of brown, from latte to chocolate, have been trending since September. And take from me: it’s not going anywhere any time soon. “It’s so rich,” says Miss Pop. “I’m seeing a lot of sparkling chestnut, chocolate, and caramel browns. I love that so much.” Her tip? Use any brown shade as your base coat, then add a drop of Essie’s Baby Carrots to a top coat; the glitter particles separate and give your manicure a gel-like shine.

Jet Black, Baby

You can never go wrong with a basic black. “I think it’s a whole damn mood. People always think a nude has to be your skin tone. But pull the color from your hair; if you have black or dark hair, it’s a neutral on you,” says Miss Pop. And for a good product, you don’t have to go beyond the drugstore.

Rich Blackberry

This is your “classic vamp manicure” with a modern spin. “It’s rich and dramatic without needing any additional nail art,” says Choi. “I prefer a clean, solid-color manicure for this shade. It looks beautiful on short nails for an edgy, modern look, but I especially love it on longer almond shapes for a more glamorous effect.” I personally love JINsoon’s Risque, but you can also veer a bit more plum if you want to feel lighter.

Why Trust Marie Claire

For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.

Meet the Experts

When it comes to the chicest Thanksgiving nail colors, think "rich browns, warm oranges, earthy army greens, and deep burgundy shades," says nail artist Erica De Los Santos. As for Thanksgiving nail art? "This season, we've definitely been seeing a shift toward simpler, more understated nail art," she adds, noting animal prints, subtle chrome accents, and sweater nails as some looks to keep an eye out for as you sit around the Thanksgiving table this year. It "will be less about traditional holiday designs and more about simple, sophisticated looks that embrace the colors and textures of fall," she says.

Whether you're hosting Thanksgiving dinner, heading home for the long weekend, or simply looking for one last fall manicure before the holiday season officially kicks into high gear, consider these Thanksgiving nail designs your next appointment inspiration.

Rich Merlot

De Los Santos has called out burgundy as a must-have nail color for fall and Thanksgiving alike. On a slim, medium-length, almond-shaped nail, it looks super classy and will match any holiday outfit.

Vintage Brown

With bangles around the tips of some nails and a light brown tortoise finish on the others, this has a totally cool vintage look that's sure to be a conversation starter come Thanksgiving.

Abstract Burgundy

Burgundy isn't the only star of the show here—if you look closely, you can see thin white stripes on each nail for added visual interest. This subtly elevates them for a Thanksgiving manicure.

Shades of Cocoa

One shade of brown isn't enough for me this fall—I'm loving the fall-friendly color and wearing everything from toasty tan to rich cocoa on my fingertips, just like this manicure.

Deep Plum

Purple nails are everywhere this fall, and one way to wear them this Thanksgiving is with a plum-colored polish. These are simple, straightforward, and perfect for the season.

Black Cherry Frenchies

Pro tip: Instantly dress up your French manicure this Thanksgiving by opting for a fall-friendly color, like this black cherry red shade. Try the design on short almond nails, or opt for another shape. "This fall, I’ve definitely been seeing a lot of short almond and short square nails among my clients," says De Los Santos.

Touches of Tortoise

Tortoiseshell nails aren't going anywhere this November. Instead of going all in, you can choose just one or two tortoise nails and a complementary color for the rest of your fingertips.

Golden Tiger Print

As De Los Santos pointed out, animal print is here to stay. Pairing tiger print art atop a glimmering golden cat eye polish adds the perfect amount of sparkle to dress up for the holiday.

Glassy Swirls

Are these nails not the definition of elegance? They're so glassy, beautiful, and unique. Plus, the swirls remind me of a warm cup of coffee (which I'm sure will be needed after all the Thanksgiving Day prep).

Deep Emerald Green

Deep, jewel-toned shades are perfect for the fall-to-winter transition period, like this luxurious emerald shade. With so many green nail designs popping up lately, it's no wonder that De Los Santos loves earthy green tones for Thanksgiving this year.

Cool Mocha

Sure, brown nails look amazing on Thanksgiving, but why not zhuzh them up a bit with a simple singular polka dot? Choose whichever color you like, but this baby pink shade makes a super cute contrast.

Olive Green Tips

If you like to add a pop of color but keep it subtle, this olive green French manicure is made for you. The fall-friendly shade adds some character to your fingertips, but it won't overpower whatever Thanksgiving outfit you have planned.

Reverse Fall French

No need to pick just one fall color for your Thanksgiving mani—wear them all with this creative reverse French manicure. Simply choose two contrasting autumnal shades for each nail and create a reverse Frenchie at your cuticle line to get the look.

Cozy Sweater Nails

There's nothing like cozying up in a warm sweater during the Thanksgiving holiday break, so why not get the nails to match? The plaid pattern is reminiscent of a sweater, but feel free to play around with the colors as you wish.

Multi-Colored Fall Shades

This manicure is autumn bottled up, thanks to multiple fall shades. It channels falling leaves as they change color, and it's perfect for Thanksgiving and beyond.

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Meet the Expert

Luckily there's a lot to work with. We're talking glossy chestnut browns that look good enough to eat, jelly manicures inspired by autumn landscapes, and some seriously fun takes on animal print. Of course, not everything has to come in a shade of brown or burgundy to qualify as a fall manicure. One of my favorite looks this week pairs cobalt blue with a deep wine shade, while another takes chrome to an almost ridiculous level of reflectiveness. What do these eight manicures have in common? I'd happily wear every single one well into November.

October Skies

You know that very specific time of day in October when the sky turns pink and orange, but there's still a little blue peeking through? That's exactly what these nails remind me of. Each finger has its own watercolor-like swirl of color, and the sheer jelly finish gives everything that gorgeous, almost glassy effect. An entire autumn sunset, right at your fingertips.

Toasty Little Things

These nails look like they should come with a fireplace and a glass of red wine. The warm amber jelly is glossy and pretty much identical to the chestnuts they're photographed with.

Golden Harvest

The rich amber shade has just a hint of green peeking through it, while delicate gold detailing frames each nail like a tiny gemstone. It's almost like a special effect.

Fall Mixology

Tortoiseshell, meet turquoise. Two things I never would have thought to put together on a manicure in fall, but it just works. The bright blue details break up the rich amber-and-brown pattern in the coolest way.

Moonlit Magic

If the night sky had a disco ball, I imagine it would look something like this. Between the inky blue edges, the glitter stars, and flashes of pink and copper from the reflective top coat, there's so much going on here that reminds me of a mystical moonlight.

Sweater Weather Safari

Who said animal print has to be black and white? Instead, we're getting zebra stripes in just about every fall color imaginable, with unexpected touches of green and mauve thrown into the mix.

The October Blues

Burgundy for fall? Obviously. Cobalt blue? Also a favorite. But the two together, with thick French tips? Now we're talking.

Fawn of Fall

Bambi nails may be in the running for my favorite animal print design of the season. The brown base of these nails feels right at home with the rest of my fall beauty aesthetic.

Why Trust Marie Claire

For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.

I’ve learned that the people who have the strongest beauty routines—complete with the skincare that fights clogged pores and the makeup that looks good for eight-hour days—are the ones who really put their products to the test. Take KATSEYE’s Yoonchae, who has spent the past two months on tour. She’s testing her foundation under bright lights, her cleanser on heavy makeup (daily!), and her fragrance through fairly intense dance sequences. With all of that in mind, her product recommendations are pretty legit—and there’s a lot of them.

She’s a big fan of K-Beauty brand Dr. Jart+. So much so, that she was named the brand’s first-ever North American ambassador. “No matter how busy my schedule gets, I love having a simple routine that makes me feel confident and comfortable in my own skin. Dr.Jart+ has always felt fun and innovative to me,” she says. But her staples go far beyond buzzy K-Beauty brands. She’s a big fan of luxury perfume, de-puffing tools, and a hydrating hair mask to care for her newly dyed blonde hair. To get the scoop on all of Yoonchae’s favorite products—and find out how she gets In the Mood—keep reading.

I think the most important thing is reminding myself to be confident and stay true to who I am. Since joining KATSEYE, I've learned so much about myself and become a lot more comfortable expressing different sides of my personality. Some days that means feeling really confident on stage with a full glam look, and other days it's just taking care of myself and feeling good in my own skin. I try to remind myself that confidence comes from being comfortable with who you are, rather than trying to be someone else.

Skincare is such an important part of my routine, especially because I'm wearing makeup so often for performances, shoots and events. I always make sure I have a really good cleanser that removes all my makeup without leaving my skin feeling dry. I love the Dr.Jart+ Cicapair™ Gentle Foam Korean Face Wash Cleanser for Sensitive Skin because it’s really good for sensitive skin and for removing makeup and dirt. For hair, I use the Matrix Miracle Creator Leave-In Spray because it keeps my hair silky, soft, and protected. I also think it’s really important to keep my hair healthy, strong, and smooth, so I have quite a few different hair masks in my routine depending on what my hair needs.

Definitely my Therabody depuffing tool. I always wake up with a puffy face, so it's become such an important part of my morning routine. I love using it to help wake up my skin and make my face feel refreshed, especially when I have an early call time or a long day of glam ahead. It's such a little step, but it makes me feel so much more awake and ready for the day.

I love how fragrance can make you feel a certain way or remind you of a special memory. I think of it almost like an accessory because it can completely change how you feel when you're getting ready. I love scents that feel fresh and feminine but still have a little personality. It's another way to express myself, just like my makeup, hair or outfit. Currently, my go-to perfume for the tour has been Chanel CHANCE EAU TENDRE and sometimes Le Labo Musc 25.

I love a fresh, glowy makeup look with lots of blush! I've always loved the Korean makeup technique of placing blush right under my eyes and toward the center of my face because it gives such a cute, flushed look. For my base, I love using Dr.Jart+ Premium BB Cream because it gives me natural-looking coverage without feeling too heavy. Then I'll add pink blush— I’ve been using NARS Powder Blush—a little brown eyeliner, and a soft lip color. Since going blonde, I've also been having so much fun experimenting with different makeup looks and figuring out what complements my new hair. I love that I can keep my skin looking natural while still playing with color.

I recently went blonde, and I feel like it's brought out a completely new side of my personality! I feel like my blonde hair has given me a new energy on stage, and I've been having so much fun with it.

I usually prefer to keep my nails short and natural rather than having long nails. If I do get my nails done, I love a classic French tip or just a natural pink or nude shade. I like to keep both my fingers and toes simple and match them in the same color for a clean, natural look.

Even when I'm really tired after a show, I always make sure to take off all my makeup and take care of my skin. I've dealt with acne-prone skin, so I've learned how important it is to be consistent, especially when I'm wearing makeup so frequently. I try to keep my routine simple but focus on products that really work for my skin. I love using the Dr.Jart+ Ceramidin Skin Barrier Milky Toner followed by the Ceramidin Moisturizing Cream to keep my skin feeling hydrated and comfortable. It's become such a nice way to unwind after a busy day, and I always feel better when I wake up knowing I took care of my skin the night before.

I'm really excited to keep growing and discovering new sides of myself. I feel like I've already changed so much since becoming part of KATSEYE, especially when it comes to my confidence and how I express myself. I'm learning to embrace change and not be afraid of trying new things, whether that's through music, fashion, or beauty. I think it's exciting to imagine how much I'll continue to evolve over the next few years. I'm really looking forward to becoming even more confident in who I am.

My older sister was actually one of the first people who taught me about makeup, and something she always reminded me was that sometimes less is more. When I first started experimenting with beauty, I wanted to try everything at once, but she helped me learn how to keep things balanced. That's something I still think about today, especially when I'm doing my own makeup. I love experimenting with bold looks for performances, but on my days off, I really enjoy keeping my makeup simple and letting my skin show through.

Shop Yoonchae's Routine

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While I normally reach for a deep emerald polish, I've been seeing so many new ways to wear green nail designs lately. Whether it's punchy olive polish that's inspired by a martini or an earthy, tasteful sage, there are at least a dozen ways to reinvent a basic green. The color is "wonderfully universal," notes nail artist Max Estrada. "Green is rooted in nature, so it can feel fresh and lively or rich, warm and cozy depending on the shade."

Whether you're loyal to a classic, glossy forest green manicure or looking to experiment with something a little more elaborate, there's no shortage of ways to make the color your own. Ahead, find the chicest green nail ideas to inspire your next fall manicure.

Half-and-Half Cat Eye

One of the coolest trends I'm seeing in the world of cat eye manicures lately is this half-and-half design. It's created by swiping the magnet over the cat eye polish in opposite directions to create the contrasting shimmer.

Light Olive

Drink your matcha and wear it, too. This punchy green is an unexpected pop of color, but it refrains from feeling too summery. If you're iffy, try putting a forest green French tip to make it feel more fall-appropriate.

Deep French Manicure

Deep French manicures are perfect for nail art because you get more room on each fingertip for fun designs, like this one. It shows off isolated chrome, tortoise shell, polka dots, and more.

Animal Print Mix-N-Match

A green manicure can play well with other colors. Case in point: This mix-n-match design features the color alongside other fall-inspired shades. Plus, animal print touches like tortoiseshell and crocodile-esque print add tons of visual interest.

Dainty Matcha Frenchies

It's all about matcha lately, and that goes for your fingertips as well. This dainty micro French manicure is instantly dressed up for fall with a touch of light, milky matcha green.

Evergreen Chrome

There's nothing like a little chrome—this deep evergreen shade is practically made for fall and winter, but with the addition of a chrome finish, it turns from a simple cold-weather staple into a high-fashion style. (It's also a Taylor Swift-approved look.)

Classic Forest Green

Simple doesn't always mean boring, especially when it comes to this forest green look. Something about this statement-making manicure just oozes wealth and its depth helps it double as a neutral.

Green Apple

Okay, I know brat summer is well in the rearview mirror, but the vibrant green apple shade is still on my mind. Pairing it with a deep brown-black and creating these fun bubble-like nail designs makes it feel cold-weather approved. Brat Fall, anyone?

Shimmering Cat Eye

Cat eye manicures are one of the easiest ways to add a little decoration to your fingertips without committing to full-blown nail art. You're guaranteed to be staring at your hands all day with this blinding, shimmery look.

Mossy Mood Ring-Inspired

Take aura nails to the next level with these multi-colored mossy tones. Instead of using just two shades (a base color and the aura color), these use several to deliver a mood ring-esque effect.

Frenchies With a Twist

Switch up your typical Frenchies with this green-and-white design featuring crisp lines and negative space. Just make sure you're stocked up on nail tape.

Bright Pistachio

Pistachio green? Yes please. These mini polka-dotted vivid green nails are pure fun. The negative space lets your natural nails shine through—and, well, healthy nails are the biggest trend of 2026.

Inverted Stripes

Yes, stripes are always in style (especially for a good fall sweater), but these are next-level. The color-blocked styling creates an inverted look that's equal parts cool and trippy.

Glossy Velvet

If you looked up elegance in the dictionary, I think these nails might just be listed right next to the word. The glassy (and classy) velvet finish paired with the delicate swirling nail art is truly luxurious and unique.

Glass Jade

Jade nails are one of my personal favorite takes on green manicures right now. The color looks expensive and brings total fall energy. Think of them as a jewel-toned, muted shade that adds richness without feeling heavy.

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"The coffee nail trend is exactly what it sounds like: manicures inspired by your favorite morning brew,” says celebrity manicurist Erica De Los Santos. The shades span from rich chocolate browns and warm caramels to creamy oat-milk beiges. But the fun doesn’t stop at solid colors. “Think of how coffee looks when you pour in the dairy or creamer,” De Los Santos adds. “That’s where designs like ombré and marble come in, blending tones of brown and ivory. You can even incorporate a French tip or a subtle cat eye effect for a little something extra.”

Beyond being incredibly chic, the look is universally flattering. “You can pick the particular shades, warmer or cooler, that best match your skin tone,” says celebrity nail artist Tom Bachik. Whether you prefer deep espresso or creamy latte hues, this trend complements every nail shape and length. Ready to find your perfect brew? Below, the 15 best coffee nail ideas for the season ahead.

Double Shot

This manicure is ideal for anyone who gravitates toward deep bordeaux or even black nails in the colder months. It’s bold, rich, and looks great accented with gold jewelry.

Mocha Magic

When I’m looking for a warm, indulgent beverage in the fall, a caffè mocha is one of my all-time favorites. The mani version is a warm, medium-brown shade with red undertones that looks almost as decadent as the drink itself.

Chai Latte

As someone who typically gravitates toward softer colors, I love the way this creamy almond manicure breaks up the sea of darker, moodier autumn hues. It feels elegant and polished, letting your nail shape take center stage.

Iced Macchiato

Dark chocolate tones just feel right for October. At first glance, it’s a simple brown manicure—but the pearlescent, diamond-like finish takes it to another level. Safe to say I’m obsessed.

Affogato Swirl

These maximalist nails are packed with detail—rich espresso swirls melting into warm chocolate brown, with creamy latte splashes to brighten the entire look. It’s like an autumn mood board on your nails.

Cold Brew Brownie

Solid colors don’t have to be boring. This medium chocolate brown delivers a vibrant, high-shine finish that sets in just five minutes—perfect for anyone constantly on the go. Plus, I love that it reliably lasts for up to two full weeks.

Caramel Latte

If you prefer a softer look, try this caramel-latte shade. Like a creamy morning brew, its milky undertones balance the warmth for a subtle, wearable, and sophisticated mani moment.

Medium Roast

“What I love about this trend is that you can keep it as simple or as creative as you want,” says De Los Santos. “Whether you’re a black coffee girl or you like it extra light and sweet, there’s a nail look to match your order.” This versatile shade, a true brown with cool undertones, pairs effortlessly with both gold and silver jewelry.

Mocha Frappuccino

While the first “coffee swirl” manicure had a slightly darker base, this one features elegant ribbons of light brown and cream. This striking manicure practically begs for a double-take.

Shaken Espresso

These dark brown cat-eye nails are daring, fun, and just the right amount of witchy for fall. And that subtle gold shimmer? Pure magic.

Arabica

This decadent brown polish pairs beautifully with oversized sweaters and a piping hot cup of coffee. It’s bold enough on its own, so I would just swipe on a glossy topcoat and let the color do the heavy lifting.

Milky Cappuccino

This shade is subtle without being boring—the ideal transitional color if you’re mourning the end of summer but not quite ready for dark winter hues. It also looks particularly good on short, square nails.

Caramel Cortado

We tend to favor lighter, softer colors in spring and summer, while shades of brown are the perfect way to shift our manis into a deeper, cozier direction as the weather cools down,” says Olivia Van Iderstine, vice president of content and creative at Olive & June. This warm chocolate brown polish is flecked with iridescence that catches the light at every turn and lasts up to 10 days.

Iced Chai

This earthy brown is a refreshing break from the warm tones we usually see in October. Layered with an icy chrome powder, it takes on a soft, frosted finish that I am completely obsessed with.

Chocolate Frappe

“With holiday travel and winter wear ahead, a long-lasting manicure is essential,” says Van Iderstine. “Olive & June’s new Dip Powder System delivers up to 21 days of wear, making Dark Chocolate a chic, low-maintenance option to keep your coffee-inspired mani fresh all season.” Personally, I’m getting a head start on the trend and trying this one ASAP.

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For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion, and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.

Meet the Experts

Hailey Bieber traded her signature glazed nails for glossy black, Megan Moroney took the angel theme quite literally, and Selena Gomez made a very convincing case for going a little vampy this October. Even the more understated manicures have fun little details worth a close look.

This week's nail roundup is a particularly star-studded one, and I've collected all the manicures worth saving for your next appointment.

Black Tie

Leave it to Hailey Bieber to make a jet-black manicure look impossibly chic. For the Academy Museum Gala, her longtime nail artist, Zola Ganzorigt, painted her almond-shaped nails with OPI's Black Onyx, which made for a gorgeous contrast against her bubblegum-pink Chanel gown. I love a good unexpected color combination, especially when it looks this expensive.

Wing Woman

When performing at the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show, why not take the angel theme all the way down to your fingertips? Megan Moroney did exactly that with the help of Ganzorigt, who created a baby pink manicure with delicate stripes and tiny silver angel wings. So cute!

Star Power

Ayo Edebiri's manicure is making me reconsider my usual preference for solid colored nails. Created by celebrity nail artist Eri Ishizu, the look features milky white stars scattered across a sheer pink base. The short length is ultra-chic.

The Fine Print

You might miss the best part of Sarah Pidgeon's Academy Museum Gala manicure if you don't look closely enough. Ishizu created the tiniest little French tips using Manucurist's Beige and Snow polishes, and the result is pretty much the definition of understated elegance.

Red Alert

I'll never need much convincing to wear a red manicure, but this raspberry shade is making a particularly strong argument. Chanel nail artist Betina Goldstein used two coats of Le Vernis in Pompier on Ella Rubin for the Academy Museum Gala, finishing with the brand's glossy top coat. It's bright without feeling summery, which is exactly the kind of red I love this time of year.

Rings Attached

Now this is how you make a statement with a nearly naked manicure. Alysa Liu's nails, courtesy of Goldstein, featured tiny silver piercings on a matte base for the Academy Museum Gala. It's a little punk, a little unexpected, and easily one of the most interesting sets I've seen this week. I'd probably spend the entire evening staring at my own hands.

Small Details

At first glance, Rosé's soft pink nails could pass for a classic, no-fuss manicure. But look a little closer, and you'll spot the tiny silver studs Goldstein added. The embellishments are so delicate that they almost look like little pieces of jewelry.

Vamp Hour

Selena Gomez's matte merlot manicure is getting me very excited for Halloween. Originally created by her go-to nail artist, Tom Bachik, the look features long almond-shaped nails with tiny gold hoops and metallic accents. It has just enough edge without veering into actual Halloween nail art, which I appreciate as someone who wants to wear a manicure well past October 31.

Why Trust Marie Claire

For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.

A few months ago, I had a lovely chat with the incredible Carol Han, founder of Nette, a brand that has won not one, not two, but three Marie Claire Fragrance Awards. Her brand is just that good. At the time, she let me in on a little secret: Nette was collaborating with Morgan Riddle on a day-to-night fragrance called Mr. Cloud. Fast forward to today, and the delicious skin scent, a mix of fresh tuberose and a cold milk accord, is officially here.

To celebrate, I sat down with Riddle to discuss All The Things—fragrance included. We covered a ton of ground: from psychics and her Saturn Return to the underrated brow gel she swears by and the Russian manicure spot she found in New York City for just $75. She’s certainly not a gatekeeper of beauty secrets, so to get the scoop on all her favorite products, places, and wellness habits, keep reading.

I basically jump out of bed and take my dog straight outside. This is so random, but I listen to this guy on Spotify called ATOON. He basically creates these songs that merge 200 different instruments to create a sound wave that changes the waves in your brain. It’s supposed to put you in a good mood, and it makes my walk feel magical. I walk by the water every morning, and in a weird way, it shuts my brain off. I’m not really thinking about anything. I like being out in nature and feeling the sun and nature as much as I can in New York.

I'm not a bath girl. I get too bored in them. I’m a very quick showerer. Maybe once a week I'll do the long everything shower, hair mask, sort of thing. I’m always in a rush to do something, so I don't usually take my time.

I spray magnesium spray on my feet at night. I’m not a fan of my feet or other people’s feet or touching anyone's feet. It’s really gross to me. But spraying it is supposed to help you sleep better. I don’t know if it works, but it’s become part of my routine that I don’t even think about before I go to bed.

I’ve always liked perfumes—I have a very large collection. But I’ve always been more of a candle girl. Nette is one of my favorite brands—I’ve been burning them for years. Through that, I got connected to Carol, the founder, and we ended up collaborating on creating Mr. Cloud. The main goal that we had in creating it was that it could be a perfect daytime perfume and a perfect nighttime perfume. It’s the mix of floral and skin musk that balances it out. I feel like the florals bring the daytime vibe, and the skin musk, with the tuberose and blonde woods, makes me think of nighttime.

I’ve had the same makeup routine for five years—it’s an all-or-nothing sort of thing. I have one go-to look because I don’t know how to really do anything else. I use the Dior Backstage Face and Body Foundation, the Ilia Concealer, and the Refy Brow Gel.

I'm a Dyson AirWrap girl. I’ll do a rough-dry, then use the big-barrel Airwrap and pin it for five to 10 minutes. That’s my go-to. I do that every two or three days, depending on my workouts. Right now, I’m using the Wella Miracle Repair—honestly, I’ve been using it since it came out in 2021. I’m also using the Gisou five-in-one styling cream. It’s a heat protectant with styling benefits

I am into the French ombré nail. I do a Russian manicure with hard gel. I used to go to Asya in Flatiron, but now it’s a little bit of a hike for me. I just started going to Nail Aug in Tribeca—it’s only $75, which is unheard of for a Russian manicure. And, if you’re able to go in the middle of the day, they’ll take an extra $15 off. They have huge massage chairs that you can sit in and get a pedicure, too. It’s my favorite place.

I always do a full regimen. I just started using the Good Molecules Dark Spot Serum—it’s one of the best products I’ve ever used. They’re super affordable and it lasts me almost a year. Then, I’m using the Allies of Skin copper peptide system and the Tatcha Indigo Night Cream. It’s very hydrating, which is great because my skin gets quite dry here in the fall and winter.

I’m looking forward to my 30s. I say that because most of my close girlfriends in the city are in their mid-30s and every single one of them says that life just gets so much better. All of them consistently had difficult Saturn Return years around 28 or 29, which is right where I am right now. Everyone keeps saying it gets better. I’m like, ok, please.

I don’t think a dermatologist will like me saying this, but a dermatologist told me to do this. You can order these lancets on Amazon for at-home extractions. I have really bad closed comedones, and I was paying so much money to get extractions. Now, these are my go-to.

Shop Morgan's Routine

Why Trust Marie Claire

For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.

From delicate French tips and dreamy aura designs to dimensional chrome and gemstone-inspired finishes, blue nail designs have serious range. With so many different color options, they're versatile enough that they can blend with whichever fall outfit you're wearing or act as a stand-out accessory. Think of it this way: A sheer, milky blue can be just as understated as your favorite nude, while a glossy cobalt or velvet-finish midnight blue makes a statement all on its own. Whether you're drawn to minimalist nail art or prefer something a little more elaborate, here are the chicest blue nail designs worth saving for your next salon appointment.

Deep Blueberry

Simple, straightforward, and right to the point: These deep blueberry nails are proof that a single-color mani can be just as dramatic as some intricate designs.

Ocean Blues

Can't give up summer quite yet? Heading somewhere warm and tropical? Just like a vibrant fall mani? This look is ready no matter the occasion: It features the seemingly ever-trending aura design and all the shades of blue.

Reverse Frenchies

I'll always say yes to a French manicure, but switching it up with a reverse Frenchie? Perhaps even better. Using a thin nail art brush, swipe a bit of this electric blue shade along your cuticle line and you're in business.

Cornflower Blue Negative Space

A little negative space adds a lot of intrigue to your mani—just take a look at this cornflower blue design. Though this one features clear arches, you can also create the look using other shapes, from triangles and diamonds to circles and swirls.

Shades of Blue

One of my favorite ways to dress up a French manicure is by opting for a seasonal shade on the fingertips instead of classic white. In this case, you don't have to choose just one shade—choose your five favorite blues for an ombré-like design.

Outside-the-Box Blue Chrome

Add a little oomph to your blue nail design by topping it with chrome powder. This is a fun take on a glazed donut mani, all grown-up for fall and finished off with both blue and white for a creative French design.

Sculptural Tips

Dripping, metal-like tips add so much visual interest to your manicure. Add in a deep blue shade and this is the perfect sculptural design for fall, winter, and beyond.

Beaded Beauties

If you prefer a totally unique manicure, this beaded beauty is for you. Intricate blue beads, rhinestones, glitter, and pearls atop long almond-shaped nail extensions make for a truly one-of-a-kind design that will certainly stop traffic.

Shimmering Swirls

Take your cat eye mani to the next level with this multi-dimensional swirling design. The mesmerizing look is subtly glam and unlike any other blue nail design out there.

Written in the Stars

Turn to the starry night sky for your next blue manicure inspiration. Each fingertip features elements like stars, half moons, constellations, and more.

Galactic Cat Eye

Inspired by the galaxy? This mesmerizing midnight blue cat eye manicure will have you staring at your fingertips both day and night.

Magical Mani

Blue cat eye French tips topped with gilded, shining gold makes for a magical-looking manicure. This is the perfect way to elevate your nail design while still keeping it easy to wear for everyday.

Moody Aura

Add some depth and moodiness to your aura nails this season with a black base and blue for the aura part of the design. You can pair almost any two shades together, but the blue-on-black really pops.

Drops of Denim

A good blue manicure doesn't have to be entirely blue. Proof: This mix-and-match design that features denim blue, Frenchies, and tortoise shell print.

Contrasting Blue French Tips

Colorblocked blue French tips? Yes please. Choose two contrasting blues to create this vibrant manicure that anyone who loves this color is sure to fall in love with.

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For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.

Meet the Expert

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.

Why Trust Marie Claire

For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.

"I think younger folks who didn't necessarily grow up in the Y2K era get to see the romanticized aesthetic of it all via the Internet and want to recreate certain looks in their own way, and nails are the easiest to recreate it!" explains celebrity nail artist and Nail Thoughts brand founder Katie Masters about our return to Y2K-land.

According to an analysis by the beauty and wellness booking platform Fresha, worldwide Google searches for “retro nails” have increased by 344 percent in the past year, which, if you ask me (a '90s baby), is due to our love for a little nostalgia. "What makes the aesthetic particularly fun is that it was never afraid of color, shine, or playful details, so there are lots of elements that can be brought back without recreating the look exactly," the brand's beauty expert, Annabelle Taurua, explains. “The modern Y2K manicure is really about taking inspiration from the era rather than copying it. By keeping the design clean and adding one nostalgic element, you can create something that feels fun and retro while still looking fresh for 2026."

Keep scrolling to discover 17 super cute, super fun Y2K-inspired nail art looks to bring to the salon (or DIY with your besties at home during your next sleepover, partying like it's 2002).

Pink and White French Tips

Behold: the ultimate nail look to illustrate the Y2K era. While the It girls of the early 2000s didn't invent the French manicure, they certainly popularized it—and the pinker your base coat was, the better.

To craft the perfect Y2K tip, nail artist Marisa Carmichael recommends mixing a touch of yellow polish (like Orly's Honey Yuzu) with a white like White Tips "to slightly soften the white tip for a softer, slightly vintage look."

Extra-Thick French Tips

It's already been established that the era was all about a good French tip. Now, there's a new lesson: the thicker, the squarer, the better. "Personally, I love incorporating thick French tips into my designs. They've gradually made their way back into the spotlight and have become a staple in so many of today's nail looks," says nail artist and DND ambassador Nasreen Espinoza. "I think the biggest thing to watch out for is over-modernizing the look. It's easy to get carried away incorporating current trends, but leaning too heavily into today's aesthetics can take away from the whimsical charm that makes Y2K nails so iconic."

Colorful Animal Print

When celebrity nail artist Sigourney Nuñez thinks Y2K nails, her mind immediately goes to the nail art menu you'd see on display at a salon way back when. Think "rows of square nail tips painted with thick and crispy French tips, animal print (especially zebra and butterflies!), and tons of flowers, a little bling, and abstract line work. And lots of pops of color, of course!"

Light Blue Shimmer

Another Y2K style that Masters love is anything with a glowy shimmer or pearlescent shimmer, especially in light blues or silvers. "I have these really cutesy blue shimmer press-on nails by Nail Thoughts, which perfectly align with the shimmery vibe of the Y2K era," she says. "The little gold stars and blue ombre even add an extra little effect of nostalgia. They give very With Upon A Star vibes."

Carmichael also sees the vision when it comes to a shimmery blue. "Shimmers, frosted and icy shades, silvers and blues, and shimmer bright pinks all felt super futuristic at the time," she adds.

Glowy Pink

Let's glow, divas. Pink is super Y2K nail art coded (more on that in a second), and a glowy pink polish adds even more allure. "For the gel lovers out there, I have the perfect glowy pink gel color to take to your salon as well. It's called Supernova by Nail Thoughts, and it's a frosty pink gel with a purple glow to it, and I literally named it Supernova because it felt very Zenon Girl of the 21st Century (Supernova Girl)," notes Masters.

A Little Bling

Can you believe I've made it this far without mentioning rhinestones? Little sparkles were everywhere in the early aughts, from our baby tees to our flip phones to our fingers.

"To me, quintessential Y2K nails are all about unique French tips, playful colors, bold nail art, and fun rhinestone embellishments," explains Espinoza. "I think Y2K nails are making such a comeback because early 2000s fashion and beauty have become increasingly popular again, especially with the rise of vintage sourcing and thrifting culture. There's a renewed appreciation for unique, nostalgic styles, and I think nails are the perfect way to translate that aesthetic into something personal. It's a fun way to bring a staple of early 2000s fashion into modern beauty."

Abstract Line Work

I'll never forget how impressive it was to see an artist use a teeny tiny brush to paint curved lines on my elementary school fingernails. This manicure echoes that feeling, and the best part is you can use any color you like to make it happen. A trendy shade like purple might be fun?

Chrome Details

Tuarua calls out chrome as another way to add a decidedly Y2K detail to your nail look. "Chrome is another finish that works perfectly with the trend," she says. "Its high-shine, almost futuristic appearance captures that early-2000s aesthetic, while using it as an accent or pairing it with a simple base can make the look feel more contemporary."

Pinkalicious

"Think about the razor phone or inflatable chairs; that kind of vibe can be brought to nails with the right shades," she adds. "I am really loving Nails.INC’s It’s Topless in Kat and It’s Topless Danielle. Those colors remind me of an eyeshadow color you'd see on some of the characters of most popular shows like Lizzie McGuire or That's So Raven."

Butterflies

Another classic Y2K manicure motif: The butterfly. There are so, so many ways to incorporate the sweet insect into your nail art. If you don't feel like hand-painting a bunch of wings, there are always stickers. Or you could pick up some cute nail charms and get gluing.

Be Square

While I've touched on their importance a little bit, square nails deserve their own shoutout here. This fun, shimmery, and anything-but-minimalist manicure is a great way to show off the seminal (and honestly timeless!) Y2K nail shape.

Silvers

One of the simplest Y2K nail ideas is simply painting on some silver polish. It couldn't be easier to DIY this look, but the payoff is major. As for whether you should stick with a chunky glitter or finer, more iridescent formula? That's for you to decide.

Hibiscus Heaven

Hibiscus designs, you will always be iconic. Whether you're headed to a tropical getaway or not, adding a little hibiscus flower (or a bunch of them!) to your manicure will provide a much-needed feeling of Y2K zen.

Airbrushed Art

The perfect manicure to go with your cute Y2K airbrushed baseball cap? An airbrushed hearts-and-stars situation, of course. While this design might be best suited to a professional, you can definitely get some stencils and an at-home airbrush kit and try your own hand at the art style.

Bold Nail Art

From the rainbow gradient and animal print to the butterflies and rhinestones, this manicure perfectly encapsulates the nail art magic of the early 2000s. In fact, I bet you can find at least 10 Y2K nail ideas in this one set. Don't stress yourself out, though. Start with a chunky glitter polish and work from there.

Unique Frenchies

Let's go back to Frenchies for a second! While your French manicure can be extremely Y2K-coded with no special details whatsoever, you also have the option to play it up a little bit. Stickers of your favorite early 2000s cartoons like Hello Kitty or Totally Spies will do the trick here, as would anything else you could imagine. 3D florals? Even more gems and glitter? Whatever you wish.

Blooming Gel

There's no doubt that the Y2K manicure trend is blooming, and blooming gel polishes can make this even more true. "Some of my favorite products for creating Y2K-inspired looks are definitely chrome powders, cat-eye gels, and blooming gel," says Espinoza. "I especially love using DND products to achieve these nail art effects. Some of my go-to staples are DND Chrome Effect White Pearl #01, DND Laser Chrome #01, the DND Dual Ended Magnet for Cat Eyes, and, of course, the classic DND Blooming Gel. These products are incredibly easy to work with and can transform even the simplest nail designs into something fun, dimensional, and distinctly Y2K."

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