Nail Trends for Fall 2025 – Stunning Almond, Square & Short Styles to Try Now

As the air gets fresher and our wardrobes transition to cozy knits, there’s no better time to transform your nails into a look that will feel so good for the season. Nail trends for fall 2025 are all about contrasts: the bright colors against the dull, the shiny chrome against the velvety matte, and the classic shapes redesigned with a new, surprising touch. This year’s designs don’t just follow the rules, they play with them, giving you endless opportunities to express your mood, personality and style. Whether you like sleek minimalism, prefer an artistic touch, or want a manicure that simply makes a statement, the new trends are full of ideas. Whether it’s fall nail trends with almond looks that are elongated and flatter, fall nail trends for short nails that you can wear every day, or fall nail trends with rich brown tones that feel like being dropped into a bottle, this season encourages you to have some fun, layer textures and be a little dramatic. Pour yourself your favorite fall drink, sit back and let’s take a look at the looks you need to try.

Golden hour gradient almond nails

The warm to deep ombr of these almond-shaped nails is like the last rays of sunlight falling across an autumn horizon. Deep red fades into golden yellow in a way that makes you want to curl your hands around a latte. It is one of the fall 2025 nail trends that can combine the best of both worlds, combining the coziness of fall foliage with the sleekness of almond shapes in the fall nail trends. The long almond shape itself elongates the fingers and the red-to-orange gradient cannot be overlooked. It’s a style that’s just as beautiful on a coffee date as it is at a gallery opening.

For this design, I would use a high-quality gel polish set with a deep burgundy color like OPI Got the Blues for Red at the base and a warm marigold like Gelish Mango Tango at the ends. The trick to a smooth transition without harsh lines is a good blending brush or sponge. And don’t leave a long lasting top coat to seal in the shine and prevent the colors from fading.

The most convenient method to achieve this fade at home is to paint both shades onto a makeup sponge and gently dab in thin layers over a dried base coat until the colors blend together. According to celebrity nail artist Betina Goldstein, purely neutral color transitions are the best way to make the transition softer and more professional.

I’m in love with this look because it seems like fall is just around the corner. It’s warm, safe and a little adventurous, the best mix if you want your nails to stand out as much as your fall clothes.

Midnight gold chrome oval nails

Deep navy blue and liquid gold are simply magnetic and look especially good on a perfectly shaped oval nail. It’s a nail design that’s a showstopper in the new fall nail trends, especially for anyone who loves a chrome twist. The navy blue base makes the look mysterious and luxurious, and the shimmering gold ombr tips create a regal, party-ready vibe. It is the type of manicure that glows and attracts attention with every movement.

To do this I would start with a navy blue gel polish like OPI Russian Navy and apply a gold chrome powder over the ends. Heat the chrome with a sponge gradient or with a soft brush to achieve that molten metal effect. The top layer before and after the chrome cannot be wiped off to provide as much mirror shine as possible.

At home it’s all about thin layers and patience. Allow to harden, apply the navy and lightly tap the top third of the nail with the chrome powder. Blend with a soft brush to create a smooth fade and finish with a top coat. Pro tip: Nail artist Zola Ganzorigt recommends using chrome with a silicone tool so you don’t get streaks.

For me, this manicure is evening wear on my nails. It’s ideal to wear to fall weddings, holiday parties or when you just want to look expensive without saying a word.

Minimalist Taupe Short Nails

Whenever the discussion of fall nail trends about short nails comes up, a soft taupe always makes the cut. It is a classic yet sophisticated color that goes with everything and can be seen as the cashmere sweater of nail polishes. This is a short, round style that is contemporary and functional, but pays tribute to subtle glamour. It can be worn as a casual everyday look, but is still sophisticated enough to be worn on formal occasions.

A creamy gel polish like Essie Clothing Optional or OPI Taupe-less Beach will give you that ideal neutral shade. I would leave the finish glossy to look fresh and healthy, or apply a matte finish to give it a more trendy feel. The hairstyle requires little maintenance, so it is ideal during busy weeks when people do not have time to visit the salon.

The trick to making a neutral manicure look purposeful is perfect prep work, smoothing the edges with a file, pushing back the cuticles and applying two thin coats of color. As celebrity manicurist Deborah Lippmann likes to say, neutral nails are unforgiving, in other words, any flaws are visible and accuracy is key.

I’ve worn something like this when I needed something to match all my outfits while on a two-week vacation. It was stylish but not flashy and the low maintenance made it a godsend.

Molten copper chrome square nails

The square designs of the fall nail trends have been creeping around in copper for a few years now, but in 2025 it’s all about the ultra-reflective chrome version. This liquid metal effect on square nails is modern and retro at the same time, with a 70’s disco and the catwalk. The bold mirror shine turns every hand gesture into a glow of hot metal.

To remedy this, I would apply a copper gel base like OPI Penny Talk and brush some rose gold chrome powder over it. The square shape is particularly effective in this case because it gives a larger surface area to the reflective finish, making it look like melted jewelry.

The DIY enthusiasts should keep in mind that using chrome powder is all about having a smooth base. Polish and base coat very carefully as any ridges or imperfections will be visible. Use a sponge applicator to apply the chrome, seal with a non-wipe top coat and avoid flooding the cuticles to get that salon finish.

I love the way this manicure looks in the fall with chunky knits and gold hoops. It is a kind of design that seems expensive even if you have done it yourself in your kitchen.

Velvet Forest matte coffin nails

One of the most irresistible fall nail trends that coffin lovers are flocking to in 2025, deep green feels like it was plucked from a high-fashion editorial with this velvet matte finish. It is rich and theatrical in color and the shape of the coffin only adds to that brashness. It is the statement manicure of the colder months in combination with gold jewelry.

For a similar effect, I would choose a highly pigmented forest green gel, such as OPI’s “Stay Off the Lawn!” and cover it with a matte finish coat. Matte formulas tend to soften the color, so use a velvet matte top coat to keep the color rich and deep.

When you apply matte nail polish, you need to apply it evenly and thinly. Nail pro Julie Kandalec recommends thoroughly sealing the free edge to prevent premature chipping, as matte top coats are not as flexible as glossy ones.

For me, this is all the fall drama, elegant and moody, and great to wear on the days when you want your nails to do the talking, I own this season.

Sky and Merlot Abstract Almond Nails

The Almond scene of the fall nail trends in 2025 owns a brand new pop because of its playful design. The smooth, curved stripes of deep merlot and powder blue form an abstract, even retro pattern that is both wearable and artistic. It’s a style that works particularly well with transitional wardrobes: light knits, denim jackets and that first pumpkin spice latte of fall. The almond shape makes it fashionable and elongates the fingers, and the design doesn’t look too playful.

I would do this with a sky blue gel polish like OPI Can T CTRL Me as a base and a deep burgundy color like Essie Bordeaux as a detail. The curved shapes are also tighter with a fine detail brush and a glossy top coat seals in the contrast.

It’s one of those manicures that always gets compliments, it’s modern art for your hands without being overdone. I love that it can be worn with both casual and street styles and elegant evening outfits.

Deep green and zebra short square nails

Animal print will never disappear from the square list of fall nail trends and looks good with deep green, a color that is fresh for 2025. The glossy hunter green nails give the background a cool yet sophisticated look, and the black and white zebra designs on two nails give the look a playful touch. The short square shape is practical for daily wear, but does not lose its impact.

For this look I would recommend OPI’s “Stay Off the Lawn!” for that perfect forest shade and use stamping plates or a thin nail art brush for the zebra pattern on a bright white base. The secret is to make the lines a little uneven to create a natural animal print effect.

This pair is a statement accessory in disguise, it won’t overwhelm your entire outfit. I’ve relied on this kind of pattern play during busy weeks to make a simple jeans-and-T outfit instantly beautiful.

Smoky amber and navy blue short nails

This moody ombr is an autumn nail trend that stands out on short nails, the deep navy blue transitions into warm amber in a refined yet somewhat mysterious way. It’s small and round, which makes it easy for typing or cooking or whatever your week brings, but the color change keeps it special.

I would build this depth by applying a sheer amber gel to the bottom and buffing it to a midnight blue, like Essie After School Boy Blazer. That soft blur is achieved by using a sponge or gradient brush, and the richness is sealed in with a high-shine top coat.

It’s the type of design that makes you think of autumn sunsets, a bit of golden light filtering into cool evenings. Ideal for wearing in a sweater on a cold day and taking a walk in the fresh air in the evening.

Rose gold chrome oval nails

Chrome nails in rose gold continue to dominate the latest fall nail trends, and in 2025 they’re softer and more versatile than ever. The metallic finish of the oval shape is less sharp and more refined and reflects the light in the most beautiful way without being too blingy.

To achieve this I would start with a blush colored gel foundation and apply a slightly rose gold in chrome powder to match it nicely until the mirror shine was achieved. A non-wipe top coat before and after the chrome seals in that reflective finish.

This style is my favorite when I want to dress up: chic with evening dresses and sophisticated with everyday clothes. They are actually jewelry for your nails.

Gradient Cocoa Coffin Nails

Brown shades are taking over the fall nail trends of coffin designs, and this cocoa-to-milk gradient is what cozy glamor looks like in 2025. The coffin shape makes it dramatic and the soft fade makes it wearable for work and weekends.

To do this, I applied a rich mocha gel to the ends and blended it into a creamy nude closer to the cuticles. Here a gradient brush is very important to maintain the smooth transition.

When I wear brown shades, I feel like my nails are part of my fall wardrobe: they match camel coats, gold jewelry, and hot lattes. It’s understated, but it speaks volumes.

Neon orange and dots square nails

Bright and energetic, this manicure brings pure fun to the fall 2025 square nail trends. The orange base color is warm and the accent nail is a soft nude with fun black dots and a gold strip detail that both contrasts and adds a touch of luxury. The short square silhouette makes it wearable yet makes a bold statement and is ideal for brightening up dreary autumn days.

To recreate it, I would recommend a gel polish like OPI A Good Man-darin is Hard to Find to get that juicy orange and a sheer nude to do the accent, and a fine dotting tool to get the polka pattern. The chic detail is finalized with a gold striping tape or metallic gel polish.

I love the playful and polished nature of this design, it’s like putting on your favorite sneakers with a blazer.

Pastel Green and Zebra Abstract Almond Nails

This fall nail trend with almond design takes animal print in a softer, artistic direction in 2025. The dull green and blush pink swirls are broken up by the strong black zebra-like lines and one matte black nail is used to create the drama and balance. The fingers are extended with the almond shape and the bold design is given a graceful end.

For this I would start with pastel green and blush matte polishes and then add the black details with a fine brush. The soft texture is complemented by a matte top coat to make it trendy and wearable.

This set is the ideal transition between fun and artistic: a conversation piece that can be worn with casual clothes.

Royal blue matte almond nails

Bold yet surprisingly versatile, these matte royal blue nails are a sleek addition to the almond styles in the fall nail trends. The velvet texture makes the color more saturated and the almond shape makes the otherwise bold color more elegant. It’s a statement that isn’t loud, so it’s perfect for both minimalists and statement lovers.

To get the most benefit, I would apply a highly pigmented blue gel, such as OPI My Car Has Navy-gation, and finish it with a high-quality matte top coat to prevent streaking.

I love matte blue nails with a knit sweater, it’s a statement but not too out of season.

Shiny teal almond nails

Sleek and eye-catching, these glossy teal nails are all the rage in the latest fall nail trends 2025. The shade is somewhere between blue and green, so it can easily be paired with warm and cool wardrobes. The glossy finish is contemporary on almond-shaped nails.

This effect is optimally achieved by applying two layers of gel polish and a heavy glossy top layer to give it a mirror shine.

It’s one of those shades that instantly makes you feel happier, and it’s ideal to use in transitional weather, when you need to bring a little summer energy into fall.

Black and red vampire stiletto nails

Theatrical and undoubtedly eye-catching, these stiletto nails are all attitude. The jet black base, sharp red accents along the cuticle and edges and a glossy finish make this nail polish look striking and vampy, which is ideal for following the fall 2025 nail trends for sharp, statement-making nail looks.

At home I applied a high gloss black gel and a fine brush to accurately paint the red detail. A glossy top coat keeps the drama intact.

Created for evening events, this style is bold, assertive and hard to miss.

Hot pink and tortoiseshell almond nails

This is a trend for almond nails for fall 2025, bold and classic at the same time. The gold, shimmery tortoiseshell base is so classic and elegant, while the bright pink tips add a touch of fun and contemporary. It’s a style that draws attention but doesn’t look overdone, making it ideal for going from a business meeting to a night out.

To do this I would use a clear base with caramel, chocolate and black polish flecks to create the tortoise shell and then a clear fuchsia gel at the ends. The vibrancy is sealed with a glossy top coat and gives depth to the pattern.

I love this combination because it combines the sophisticated vibe of an animal print with the playful, unapologetic vibe of hot pink, and it’s a perfect fall confidence booster.

Olive green and speckled short nails

Autumn nail trends for short nails 2025 are stylish with earth tones, with olive green in the leading role. In this case, two of the nails have a speckled pattern that gives them some texture and character, the rest are solid green. The aesthetic is earthy and wearable, and would look great with the fall knits and neutral color palettes.

This is achieved with a dull olive polish such as OPI Suzi Loves Cowboys combined with black speckles or glitter. The speckling can be accomplished using a stiff brush or a pre-mixed speckled gel.

The design is relaxing, has a nature theme and looks great with casual, layered fall outfits.

Gold Mustard and Dalmatian Accent Almond Nails

Golden mustard nails are an absolute highlight of the fall almond nail trends in 2025, especially with a nice Dalmatian print accent. The accent nail is given a fresh white base that is lifted by a gold ring detail, making it look like an accessory in itself.

I would recommend a warm mustard gel, like Essie Fall for NYC, with a bright white gel on the accent nail. They can be painted by hand with a fine brush to give the black spots a natural, irregular appearance.

The style is half fun and half sophisticated, not loud but bold and ideal for wearing on fall brunch dates.

Matte Fall Ombre Almond Nails

This matte ombre nail art brings the feeling of autumn in one manicure, and the brown, orange and yellow colors are perfectly combined during the fall nail trends almond styles 2025. The silky effect of a velvet texture gives it a soft, warm feel and the fading effect adds depth and interest.

I would recreate it by using matte gel polish in matching fall colors and blending it with a sponge or gradient brush and then curing. The colors do not shine due to the high-quality matte top coat.

It’s like having the season’s color scheme at your fingertips: warm, inviting and just right for sweater weather.

Orange and white graphic square nails

This square design with fall nail trends is bright orange against bright white, with clean diagonal stripes that make it sporty and modern. The contrast is bold and balanced, which is an excellent option if you love statement nails but don’t want to see too much detail.

I would apply a bold orange gel like OPI A Roll in The Hague with a bright white gel, and use striping tape to apply the diagonal shapes to get the precision.

This collection is vibrant and fresh, which is perfect for those who want their nails to resemble the brightness of the first autumn days.