The 15 Most Calming Nail Colors for Fall
After the tumultuous year that was 2020, we are cautiously optimistic that things will slowly get better from here. In the meantime, we are finding moments of grounding and, quite frankly, some much needed levity through small, everyday rituals like painting our nails.
Continuing on last fall's trending shades (think: earthy greens and calming blues), we'll see that theme extend into this year. One notable exception? A cheery marigold to ease the transition between those last few weeks of summer and early fall, before the weather starts to turn.
And with that, how about we take this time to clear off our coffee tables, put on some relaxing music, and get to painting together?
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1. Cool Sage
“It's a green-gray shade that fits all skin tones,” says Brittney Boyce, the consulting nail artist for Orly. It’s also a surprisingly versatile neutral that won’t clash with...any of the athleisure we’re wearing for the foreseeable future. Extra points for the flat brush that fans out to lay down smooth, even color with nary a streak.
2. Camel Cream
For a clean pop of color that looks especially good as your summer tan begins to fade, look no further than a camel cream. This one, from Gucci's newest collection, is a must-try because of its high-coverage formula.
3. Deep Blue
A streak of navy on our fingertips reminds us of brisk, fall nights. This one reads more blue than black when painted on and is richly pigmented. The 10-free formula is gentle on nails and dries down quickly.
4. Dusty Rose
This rosy hue encapsulates that magical golden hour, when the skies turn pink and the world goes quiet. It has a similarly reassuring effect when you wear it on your fingertips.
5. Rich Terracotta
Apple spice, pumpkin spice, bring on all of the spice! This tawny terracotta is peak fall with its caramel and red undertones. The gel-like shine adds to its richness.
6. Cloudy Grey
Just as cool as black, but not nearly as severe, a misty grey polish is a solid alternative if you’re looking for a neutral that isn’t beige. This opaque crème from Olive & June covers your nails like a dream.
7. Earthy Ombre
Instagram’s favorite tonal manicure is still going strong. Update your color palette for fall with this rosy quartet that’s pre-selected to deliver a complementary gradient without any of the guesswork of choosing which hues to pair together.
8. Sunny Marigold
At first glance, a bold yellow mani might seem unusual this time of year, but that’s sort of its charm; it’s like a leaf that’s starting to turn at the edges. Marigold is the fall color that only you (and a few other trendsetters) will be wearing.
9. Shimmery Violet
For something a touch more whimsical, but just as romantic, we’d suggest a pale lavender. This one is flecked with iridescent shimmer for extra magic.
10. Deep Plum
If you love a purple, this deep, dark plum is so rich it borders on black in certain lighting (much like an eggplant in its prime). We like wearing this shade in the late autumn months and into the winter.
11. Muted Mauve
Finally, we found a purple polish that’s not too purple or pale and pastel-toned. Plus, the opacity of this formula is so rich that a single coat is all you need if you’re pressed for time (or patience).
12. Peachy Nude
For an update to your go-to nude polish, we’d recommend “JO,” a sandy apricot that offers the perfect bridge between the end of summer and early fall. The creamy formula has a satisfying color payoff and shine.
13. Burnt Orange
We don't know about you, but there is something about this deep orange hue makes us feel warm and cozy just looking at it.
14. Deep Burgundy
What’s fall without a good red? This rich burgundy is deeply soothing (not unlike the feeling we get after a glass of Cabernet).
15. Denim Blue
Blue-grey polish is such a mood. Inspired by “the mysteriously pretty tones of a fall thunderstorm,” this stormy shade is also deeply calming. Plus, the paddle-shaped brush and short handle make precise polish placement a breeze.
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