Syrup, Shine, and Sophisticated Shimmer—Fall 2026’s Nail Trends Are Here

Syrup-y Gels

As mentioned, Green thinks high-shine finishes are going to be “huge” for fall.

“I think Fall 2026 nails will feel almost lacquered—super glossy, dimensional, and expensive-looking,” she explains. “I also always tell people not to overcomplicate it. If nail art isn’t your strength, choose an amazing color and concentrate on getting a clean, glossy manicure.”

On that note, celebrity nail artist Laura B. Malarkey is predicting a surge of syrup gels this season. Think semi-sheer finishes and a thick, glossy finish that’s so extreme it looks like it would take forever to pour out of a bottle, maple style.

“Some of my favorites for fall are amber glass and creamy caramel, as well as a rich deep purple and forest green,” the Orly ambassador says.

Muted Metallics

According to Essie celebrity nail artist Steph Stone, this fall is all about “muted metallics.”

“Think all your fall favorite staples but with a chic shimmer finish,” she explains. “The Essie Liquid Diamonds Collection has everything you need to get this look at home. While the collection includes many gorgeous dark opaque colors complete with glitzy shine in the formula, it also has sheer shimmer top coats you can layer over your favorite neutrals or any color or your choosing. “

Chrome Everything

Speaking of which...

“The pearl/white translucent chrome powder that made the glazed donut trend take off is showing up over richer colors (denim blue, forest green, burgundy) and adding a chic twist to classic solid nails,” Malarkey says. “Chrome powder may not be the easiest technique to master at home but thankfully Orly has some super sleek metallic polishes that emulate the look.”

Goddess Some Bronze and Rage are her top two for this Fall.

“Tell me a bronze chrome nail doesn’t scream ‘autumn,’” adds the artist.

Lipstick Red

Winter doesn’t own red, you know.

“Fall always makes us want to go richer and deeper with color and this season I’m particularly excited about lipstick reds, burgundies, chocolate browns, mushroom greys, and sophisticated neutrals,” says green. “Red especially feels incredibly relevant—it’s timeless but there’s something about a beautiful, confident red manicure that feels very modern again.”

For an easy way into the trend, the artist recommends Nails.INC It’s Topless in Kendall, which is “a classic lipstick red.” There’s also Billie, “a rich burgundy that feels perfect for fall.”

And don’t forget the glossy finish!

“Both shades instantly make your nails look pulled together, whether they’re short and natural or a little longer,” says the artist. “The It’s Topless formula is a four-in-one with base coat, treatment, color and top coat in one, so you get that high-shine, gel-like effect without needing an LED lamp.”

Matte Over Dark

This autumn, Malarkey is “obsessed with matte over dark nails.”

“Orly has made some really gorgeous full-coverage shades that make at-home manicures super easy,” adds the artist. “Velvet Dreams and Replay the Night from their new Fall Into Wonder collection are so perfect for this upcoming season.”

Top things off with the brand’s matte top coat and you’re good to go.

Jewel-Toned Cat Eye

This fall, Petal World Studio owner Rosie says your dragon scales will be coming in jewel tones.

“I create the look using ‘cat eye’ gel which is essentially a gel polish with metallic particles which are reactive to a magnet, creating that depth and iridescent effect,” the artist previously told Byrdie “I love using Japanese and Korean brands for my magnetic gel products and am particularly drawn to products with that really fine shimmer effect, rather than chunky glitters.”

Sophisticated Shimmer

“Shimmer is also having a much more sophisticated moment,” says Green. “Rather than chunky glitter, it’s about fine, light-catching shimmer that adds depth and makes richer fall shades feel even more special.”

For an easy way to wear the trend, she loves Nails.INC It’s Topless in Simone and Scarlett because “they give you that little flash of light while still feeling chic and wearable for fall.”

Brown Tips

When it comes to specific nail art, Green thinks the details will stay quite minimal. Think “a micro French in deep burgundy or chocolate, a tiny metallic accent, or playing with shimmer and glossy finishes within the same color family.”

“Sometimes that subtle change in texture is all you need to make a classic manicure feel completely new,” the artist says.