Before every nail appointment, I find myself endlessly scrolling through Zola Ganzorigt’s Instagram for a dose of nail inspiration. As the creative genius behind some of the most viral nail trends—including the wildly popular “glazed donut nails” made famous by Hailey Bieber—Ganzorigt has been shaping the nail world, one manicure at a time. Her designs are all over social media, and her celebrity clients can’t get enough of them. Recently, I had the chance to chat with her about the must-try nail trends for fall 2024. From coffee chrome nails to square shapes and moody dark colors, this season is all about expressing your style with fresh designs and bold shades. Ready to update your mani game for the cooler months? Keep scrolling for the hottest fall nail trends, straight from one of the industry’s top experts. Your nails are about to get a major upgrade!
Coffee Chrome Nails: A Seasonal Twist
Chrome nails are a year-round favorite, according to Ganzorigt, but the base color and finish evolve with the seasons. This fall, chocolate-brown chrome nails are having a moment, as recently seen on Selena Gomez. To recreate the look, start with a rich, neutral brown base and top it off with chrome powder. Whether you go bold with an iridescent finish or subtle with a gold or pearl overlay, this trend is guaranteed to elevate your nail game.
Extra Length: Long and Dramatic
Runways from Thom Browne to Chet Lo have showcased super-long nails this season, and while they might not be the most practical, they sure are fabulous. The beauty of this trend? You can achieve the look with press-ons! These extra-long nails are perfect for those moments when you want to make a bold statement without the commitment.
Studded Nails: A Grunge Vibe
Grunge is back in fashion this fall, and it’s making its way onto our nails with studded designs. This trend takes inspiration from the runway, where edgy, studded embellishments dominated clothes and accessories. Adding studs to your nails is an easy way to inject some attitude into your look—try pairing them with a classic black French tip for a chic twist.
3D Designs: Textured Magic
“3D nail art is still going strong,” says Jan Arnold, founder of CND. These dynamic designs, featuring blobs, swirls, and dots in varied heights, bring a luxurious, tactile element to your nails. The best way to try this trend? Opt for a mismatched mani that combines different shapes and textures. Fall hues like olive green, mustard yellow, and burnt orange are perfect for this creative style.
Dark Nail Colors: Fall Classics
Rich, dark colors are a staple for fall, and Ganzorigt has already received numerous requests for these shades. Two of her go-to picks are OPI’s Malaga Wine and Lincoln Park After Dark, the latter of which was recently spotted on Kylie Jenner. These almost-black, vampy shades are timeless and always make a comeback when the weather cools.
Animal Print: Wild and Stylish
Leopard, tiger, cow—you name it, animal print is all over the fashion scene this fall, and nails are no exception. If intricate designs aren’t your thing, no worries! You can still get in on the trend with nail decals that make achieving the look at home super easy. Whether you go for an accent nail or an entire animal-print set, this trend is all about having fun.
Square Nails: The Shape of the Season
According to Ganzorigt, square nails are making a major comeback. This classic shape is ideal for a minimalist, “naked” nail look, especially if you opt for shorter lengths. Expect to see square nails paired with simple designs like French tips or solid, understated colors, making them a versatile choice for fall.
Shades of Green: Earthy and Bold
As summer fades, the love for green nail colors continues into fall. From khaki to forest green, and even bright lime, green hues are everywhere this season. Brat green may have dominated the summer, but this fall, we’re shifting toward deeper, more earthy tones.
Cat-Eye Nails: A Spooky Vibe
If you’re looking for a subtle way to celebrate Halloween without going full-on spooky, try cat-eye nails. Ganzorigt says this is one of her most requested designs every fall. Cat-eye nails give off a mysterious, moody vibe with a hint of sparkle. To get the look at home, invest in a cat-eye polish kit, which includes the magnet needed to create that striking, reflective effect.
Maple Syrup Nails: Sweet and Glossy
Ganzorigt’s latest creation for Hailey Bieber? A glossy brown look that the internet has dubbed “maple syrup nails.” This custom shade involves layering brown jelly polish over a chocolate base for a sheer, syrup-like effect. While you won’t get an exact match without some expert mixing, starting with a chocolate polish and topping it with a translucent brown can help you recreate this deliciously glossy style.
New Nudes: Sheer and Sophisticated
Nude nails are getting a fresh update for fall 2024. At Marc Jacobs’ autumn/winter show, nail artist Jinsoon Choi went for an opaque light beige topped with a high-gloss finish. This modern take on nude nails is perfect for those who want a clean, minimalist look that still feels chic.
Matte Finishes: Velvet Vibes
Matte nails are here to stay, especially for fall. Matte black, as seen on Christian Cowan’s runway, gives off a sleek, velvet-like finish. To get the look, all you need is a matte top coat—simply apply it over any polish in your collection to transform it into a velvety masterpiece.
FAQs
1. How can I make my chrome nails last longer?
To keep your chrome nails looking fresh, always apply a strong base coat and top coat. Touch up with a clear top coat every few days to prevent chipping and maintain that high-shine finish.
2. Can I pull off extra-long nails for everyday wear?
If long nails seem impractical for daily tasks, press-on nails are a great alternative. You can wear them for special occasions and easily remove them when you need more functionality.
3. Are matte nails harder to maintain than glossy nails?
Matte nails may show chips more easily than glossy ones. To extend the wear, apply a matte top coat every few days and be gentle with your hands to avoid scuffs.
