Trust Me, Everyone Will Be Wearing Theses Dark Nail Colours this Autumn

If the thought of autumn feels far too early for you right now, feel free to bookmark this story for later in the month. After all, September can (sometimes) end up being an unexpected extension of summer, so there's still plenty of time to indulge in bright and light summer shades. But for those of you who are more than ready to lean into cosy autumn vibes, you've come to the right place.

Whether we like it or not, autumn really is almost upon us, and brings with it the opportunity to switch up everything from our wardrobes and skincare routines to our hairstyles and nail colours.

Dark autumn nails

(Image credit: @harrietwestmoreland)

It will come as no surprise that when it comes to manicures and pedicures, much like pastels for spring, dark nail colours remain a popular choice for autumn every year.

If the colder temperatures and darker evenings are inspiring you to opt for some deeper hues, scroll down for our ultimate list of dark autumn nail colours. From classic burgundy to trending espresso brown, you'll find everything you need to take you right through to winter.

1. Burgundy

Dark autumn nails

(Image credit: @bambinailss)

Come autumn, we're always a fan of a burgundy nail. Whether painted all over or own as a French tip or accent nail, the rich brown-toned red continues its reign as the ultimate dark autumn nail colour every year.

Get the look:

2. Black

Dark autumn nails

(Image credit: @paintedbyjools)

Of course, a black nail works all year round, but this classic shade definitely comes into its own in the autumn. It's a failsafe colour which works well for all skin tones and with any outfit choice.

Get the look:

3. Espresso Brown

Dark autumn nails

(Image credit: @rosetuckersouthport)

From a fashion perspective, brown is particularly on trend this autumn, so why not lean into it with a matching mani? The neutral shade works well with outfits of any colour—in fact, it's impossible to regret.

Get the look:

4. Dark Green

Dark autumn nails

(Image credit: @harrietwestmoreland)

Another shade to really lean into this autumn is a dark forest green—it adds a hint of colour but without feeling too bright or bold. Indeed, even those who prefer neutral shades will be pleasantly surprised by this one.

Get the look:

5. Navy Blue

Dark autumn nails

(Image credit: @paintedbyjools)

Navy blue is a neutral, right? Another 'goes with everything' top-tier autumn nail colour, which works well for all skin tones and also looks exceptionally good when used for a French tip.

Get the look:

6. Deep Purple

Dark autumn nails

(Image credit: @paintedbyjools)

When you think of autumn nail colours, a deep purple is probably the first that springs to mind. It's a classic colour choice to opt for as the weather starts to cool down.

Get the look:

Freelance Beauty Editor

Grace Day is a beauty editor and content creator. She has over 10 years of beauty-industry experience, spanning editorial, retail, and e-commerce, which gives her a unique understanding into how people shop for their beauty routines. While studying for a history degree (specialising in the history of beauty) and working as a beauty adviser in department stores, Grace started writing her own beauty blog in order to share the products she discovered while dealing with acne. After graduating, she moved to Beauty Bay as beauty editor and content manager. Grace is currently a beauty contributor to Who What Wear. She has also written for Hypebae and PopSugar and works as a brand consultant and copywriter.