The supporting details matter as much as the shade. AW25 favours clean, squared or soft-round tips over long stiletto shapes, keeping nails looking elegant but practical. Gloss is the finish of the moment, with semi-matte textures used sparingly for contrast or on accent nails. Metallic foils, subtle shimmer topcoats and negative-space art are also finishing touches du jour, but the overarching mood is one of considered simplicity, letting colour lead the way.
Nailed It: 5 Hot Nail Trends to Try This Autumn
AW25 nails embrace rich hues, clean neutrals and playful details, striking a balance between sophistication and fashion-forward fun.
Autumn always ushers in a shift in beauty. As the air cools and wardrobes turn towards wool, leather and layering, manicures follow suit with deeper shades, clean neutrals and playful details. This season’s nails strike a balance between sophistication and fun: wearable colours with a fashion twist. From warming browns to statement blues, the new trends feel both of-the-moment and versatile enough to carry through the season.
The supporting details matter as much as the shade. AW25 favours clean, squared or soft-round tips over long stiletto shapes, keeping nails looking elegant but practical. Gloss is the finish of the moment, with semi-matte textures used sparingly for contrast or on accent nails. Metallic foils, subtle shimmer topcoats and negative-space art are also finishing touches du jour, but the overarching mood is one of considered simplicity, letting colour lead the way.
The supporting details matter as much as the shade. AW25 favours clean, squared or soft-round tips over long stiletto shapes, keeping nails looking elegant but practical. Gloss is the finish of the moment, with semi-matte textures used sparingly for contrast or on accent nails. Metallic foils, subtle shimmer topcoats and negative-space art are also finishing touches du jour, but the overarching mood is one of considered simplicity, letting colour lead the way.
Brown Tones
Brown has emerged as autumn’s quiet hero. From chocolate and chestnut to nutmeg and mocha, it’s a palette that feels sophisticated yet surprisingly adaptable. A glossy finish keeps it polished, while shorter, squared-off nails make the look clean and contemporary. Richer browns add drama for evening, while lighter caramel tones lend themselves well to everyday wear.
Polka Dot Details
Playful but refined, polka dots are appearing in chic, autumn-ready colourways. Instead of bold brights, muted pairings such as cream with cocoa or burgundy with soft white are the preferred palette. Minimal dotting over a sheer or nude base adds subtle interest without tipping into novelty.
Burgundy Reds
Wine-rich shades are always a seasonal staple, but this autumn they lean darker and moodier. Think oxblood, cranberry and glossy merlot finishes that pair perfectly with evening dressing. These shades also wear well day to day, striking the right balance of boldness and polish. A single coat in a jelly finish feels fresh and modern, while multiple layers build up to a more traditional, vampy depth.
Milky Whites
Soft-focus whites and semi-sheer ‘milky’ neutrals bring a clean, modern feel to manicures. Delicate and understated, they work beautifully as an all-over colour. A thin layer of milky polish, finished with a high-shine topcoat, feels especially fresh for autumn. Negative-space designs, such as diagonal tips or moon detailing in milky tones, also elevate this trend for those who like subtle nail art detail.
Shades of Blue
From inky midnight to pastel sky tones, blue is the season’s most versatile colour story. Darker shades have a sleek, almost lacquered edge, while baby blue brings a lighter, unexpected contrast to autumn dressing. Both pair well with metallic accents — silver and pewter are especially on trend. For those who prefer understated nails, deep navy reads as a sophisticated neutral, while ice-blue offers a cooler, fashion-forward update.
By
Lydia Mansi
·
Published September 2025
Lydia is an all-round lifestyle guru, tireless champion of women in business and our resident expert on beauty.
