Top autumn manicure ideas - from vanilla nude to 'tortoise' patterns

Along with cosy evenings, cashmere jumpers and the scent of candles, it's time for a manicure update. As Harper's Bazaar India points out, autumn is the perfect occasion to experiment in style, from wine colours to minimalistic milky tones.

"After a summer full of pastels and neon shades, one wants something more expressive. Autumn is the season of rich, noble colours that set the mood," says Daisy Kalnina, founder of The GelBottle.

According to her, wine, chocolate, bordeaux and deep glossy colours will be especially popular in 2025, as well as unusual textures such as metallics, ombré and thick creamy finishes.

9 top autumn manicure ideas

1. Wine Merlot
A classic that is revisited every autumn. The deep wine shade with a mirror-like sheen is suitable for both short square nails and elegant almonds. The colour looks expensive and goes with any outfit.

2. "Tortoise" pattern
The perfect option for those who want to add a twist to an everyday manicure. The tortoise shell style pattern combines with brown and caramel shades and stays in the trend of "quiet luxury".

3. Striped French manicure
The classic French manicure can be updated with a contrast - black and white lines on the tips of the nails. Such a minimalistic design gives the image graphic and freshness.

4. Apple red
Celebrity nail technician Harriet Westmoreland calls this colour the top shade of the season. It balances scarlet and bordeaux to create a cosy yet distinctive accent.

5. Transparent vanilla
Translucent vanilla and milk shades have become a favourite with fans of the 'clean manicure'. It's minimalism at its best - natural, well-groomed and versatile for every day.

6. Midnight Plum
This deep plum-berry shade is an alternative to traditional bordeaux and chocolate. It adds mystery to the look and looks especially effective on long nails with a glossy finish.

7. Metallic French
Metallic doesn't give up its position. In autumn it becomes softer: silver or bronze tips give the classic manicure a modern accent and a slight glow.

8. Pearlescent cat-eye
This technique is usually associated with bright glitter, but in soft shades - milky, nude or chocolate - it looks understated and sophisticated, playing in the light.

9. Peas with an autumnal vibe
The season's trendy print, the pea, has made its way into nail design. Try adding small dots to a wine or terracotta base for a fun and funky look without overpowering the look.

Autumn is a time for experimentation

Modern autumn manicure combines simplicity and individuality. It's not so much a tribute to trends as a way to express the mood of the season - warm, cosy, confident.

"Autumn nails are like a favourite jumper: comfortable, stylish and truly yours," stresses Kalnina.