Stunning Fall Shellac Nails 2024: Top Trends and 25 Ideas for a Perfect Autumn Manicure
When it comes to fall, nothing sets the tone quite like a fresh manicure. Whether you’re diving into moody autumn hues or playing with playful designs, shellac nails offer a perfect way to stay on trend. But with so many choices, how do you pick the perfect look for 2024? In this article, we’ll explore some of the most captivating fall shellac nails 2024 trends, with professional insights into color choices, designs, and how you can recreate these stunning looks at home. Let’s dive into the shades and styles that will have everyone asking, “Who did your nails?”
Chic Neutral Elegance
Neutral nails are always in style, but this fall, it’s all about adding a modern twist to the classic look. The first design we’re exploring combines soft, muted tones with a high-gloss finish, offering a sophisticated yet simple elegance. The smooth application of a pale taupe with a hint of green makes this manicure stand out without screaming for attention. It’s perfect for those who prefer a simple yet chic look that matches any outfit. The soft, understated color adds a touch of class, making it suitable for both professional and casual settings.
Consumables:
-
- CND Shellac Polish in “Field Fox” (Color)
- CND Shellac Top Coat for a high-gloss finish
- UV/LED Lamp for curing
- OPI Cuticle Oil for post-manicure care
Instructions:
-
- Start by prepping the nails with a gentle file and buff.
- Apply a base coat and cure under a UV/LED lamp.
- Paint two coats of CND Shellac Polish in “Field Fox,” curing after each layer.
- Finish with a CND Shellac Top Coat for that glossy shine, and cure.
- Hydrate the cuticles with OPI Cuticle Oil for a polished look.
Autumn Almond Delight
For those who love a bit of flair, almond-shaped nails with a mix of nude and caramel tones are a must-try this season. This design incorporates a gradient effect, transitioning from a soft pink to a warm brown, with delicate gold accents that add just the right amount of sparkle. It’s an elegant look that screams fall sophistication. The almond shape enhances the fingers’ natural length, making this a flattering choice for anyone looking to elongate their nails without opting for extensions.
Consumables:
-
- DND Gel Polish in “Pink Nude” and “Caramel Latte”
- OPI GelColor in “Golden Eye” for the gold accent
- Fine nail art brush for detailing
- CND Shellac Top Coat for sealing
- UV/LED Lamp for curing
Instructions:
-
- Shape the nails into an almond shape using a nail file.
- Apply a base coat and cure under a UV/LED lamp.
- Create the gradient effect by applying DND Gel Polish in “Pink Nude” at the base and “Caramel Latte” at the tips, blending the colors with a sponge or brush before curing.
- Use a fine nail art brush to add gold accents with OPI GelColor in “Golden Eye” and cure.
- Seal the design with a CND Shellac Top Coat and cure.
Emerald French Tips
If you’re looking to make a bold statement, emerald green French tips are the way to go. This design takes the classic French manicure and gives it a fall-inspired twist with a rich, dark green that’s perfect for the season. The contrast between the natural nail bed and the deep green tips creates a striking look that’s both edgy and elegant. This style is ideal for those who want something trendy yet wearable, making it perfect for everything from office settings to evening outings.
Consumables:
-
- CND Shellac Polish in “Black Pool” (for a base layer)
- OPI GelColor in “Emerald Illusion” for the French tips
- French manicure guides (optional)
- CND Shellac Top Coat for a glossy finish
- UV/LED Lamp for curing
Instructions:
-
- Prep the nails with a base coat and cure under the UV/LED lamp.
- Apply one coat of CND Shellac Polish in “Black Pool” for a sleek base, and cure.
- Use French manicure guides or freehand the emerald green tips with OPI GelColor in “Emerald Illusion,” then cure.
- Apply a CND Shellac Top Coat to seal and cure.
- Finish with cuticle oil for hydration and shine.
Spiced Orange Elegance
Embrace the warm, spicy hues of autumn with this vibrant orange and black manicure. The bold color choice is perfect for Halloween and the entire fall season, while the black accent nail with subtle white marbling adds an artistic touch. This design is perfect for those who love to stand out and aren’t afraid to play with color. The rich orange shade evokes the warmth of a cozy autumn day, making it a great option for both casual and festive occasions.
Consumables:
-
- CND Shellac Polish in “Electric Orange”
- OPI GelColor in “Black Onyx”
- DND Gel Polish in “White Marble” for the accent design
- Fine detailing brush for marbling effect
- CND Shellac Top Coat for sealing
- UV/LED Lamp for curing
Instructions:
-
- Shape and buff the nails, then apply a base coat and cure.
- Apply two coats of CND Shellac Polish in “Electric Orange,” curing after each layer.
- On the accent nail, use OPI GelColor in “Black Onyx” as a base, then create a marbled effect with DND Gel Polish in “White Marble” using a fine brush, and cure.
- Finish with a CND Shellac Top Coat and cure for a long-lasting finish.
Minty Fresh Sparkle
For those who prefer a softer look, this mint green manicure with gemstone accents is the perfect choice. The light, fresh color is reminiscent of early fall mornings, while the added sparkle gives it a festive touch. This design is perfect for someone who loves to keep their nails simple yet wants a bit of glamour. The gemstones catch the light beautifully, making your nails a true accessory to your overall look.
Consumables:
-
- CND Shellac Polish in “Mint Convertible”
- Rhinestones in various sizes
- Nail glue or a gel adhesive for the stones
- CND Shellac Top Coat to seal
- UV/LED Lamp for curing
Instructions:
-
- Prep the nails with a base coat and cure under the UV/LED lamp.
- Apply two coats of CND Shellac Polish in “Mint Convertible,” curing after each layer.
- Apply a small amount of nail glue or gel adhesive where you want to place the rhinestones.
- Use a nail art tool to carefully place each rhinestone, then cure.
- Finish with a CND Shellac Top Coat to ensure the stones stay in place, and cure.
Matte and Metallic Fusion
This stunning manicure combines the richness of matte finishes with the vibrancy of metallics, creating a dynamic and modern look perfect for fall. The combination of matte black, burgundy, and hot pink nails juxtaposed with a metallic bronze accent nail captures the essence of autumn’s contrast between boldness and warmth. The matte finish adds a sophisticated touch, while the metallic nail provides a striking focal point that shimmers with every movement.
Consumables:
-
- CND Shellac Polish in “Hot Pop Pink” and “Black Pool”
- OPI GelColor in “Lincoln Park After Dark” for the burgundy
- DND Gel Polish in “Bronze Burst” for the metallic accent
- Matte top coat for the matte effect
- CND Shellac Top Coat for the metallic accent
- UV/LED Lamp for curing
Instructions:
-
- Start with a base coat and cure it under the UV/LED lamp.
- Apply two coats of each chosen color: “Hot Pop Pink,” “Black Pool,” and “Lincoln Park After Dark,” curing after each coat.
- For the accent nail, apply DND Gel Polish in “Bronze Burst” and cure.
- Apply a matte top coat to all nails except the metallic accent and cure.
- Finish the metallic accent with a CND Shellac Top Coat to enhance the shine and cure.
Baroque-Inspired Opulence
For those who adore intricate and luxurious designs, this baroque-inspired manicure is a showstopper. The design features elongated almond-shaped nails adorned with gold, red, and nude tones. The gold accents are sculpted into intricate patterns, while the red adds a dramatic flair, creating a regal and artistic look that’s sure to turn heads. This style is perfect for special occasions where you want your nails to be the center of attention.
Consumables:
-
- CND Shellac Polish in “Nude Knickers”
- OPI GelColor in “Big Apple Red”
- Gold chrome powder for the sculpted designs
- Fine sculpting tools for creating the gold accents
- CND Shellac Top Coat for sealing
- UV/LED Lamp for curing
Instructions:
-
- Shape the nails into an elongated almond shape and apply a base coat, then cure.
- Apply two coats of CND Shellac Polish in “Nude Knickers” as the base, and cure.
- Use OPI GelColor in “Big Apple Red” to create the bold red accent nails, curing after each layer.
- Apply gold chrome powder to the desired nails and sculpt the intricate designs using fine tools, then cure.
- Finish with a CND Shellac Top Coat to protect the designs and add shine, curing after application.
Sunny Autumn Florals
Brighten up the fall season with this cheerful yellow and floral design. The sunny yellow base paired with delicate floral decals captures the essence of late autumn blooms, adding a playful yet elegant touch to your manicure. The design is perfect for those who love to incorporate a bit of nature into their style while maintaining a fresh and vibrant look.
Consumables:
-
- DND Gel Polish in “Sunshine Yellow”
- CND Shellac Polish in “Cream Puff” for the accent nail
- Floral water decals for the floral design
- OPI GelColor Top Coat for sealing
- UV/LED Lamp for curing
Instructions:
-
- Begin with a base coat and cure under the UV/LED lamp.
- Apply two coats of DND Gel Polish in “Sunshine Yellow” to all nails except the accent nail, curing after each layer.
- For the accent nail, apply CND Shellac Polish in “Cream Puff” and cure.
- Apply the floral water decals to the accent nail, positioning them carefully with tweezers, and cure.
- Seal the design with an OPI GelColor Top Coat and cure.
Earthy Autumn Leaves
This design is a beautiful homage to the earthy tones of fall, featuring rich brown and nude shades with delicate black leaf accents. The subtle contrast between the muted base and the intricate black leaf designs creates a manicure that is both understated and sophisticated, perfect for those who appreciate the beauty of autumn in a minimalist way.
Consumables:
-
- CND Shellac Polish in “Sage Scarf” for the nude base
- OPI GelColor in “Espresso Your Style” for the brown nails
- Black nail art pen or fine brush for the leaf design
- CND Shellac Top Coat for sealing
- UV/LED Lamp for curing
Instructions:
-
- Prep the nails with a base coat and cure.
- Apply two coats of CND Shellac Polish in “Sage Scarf” on the accent nails, and OPI GelColor in “Espresso Your Style” on the remaining nails, curing after each layer.
- Use a black nail art pen or fine brush to draw delicate leaf patterns on the nude nails, then cure.
- Seal the design with a CND Shellac Top Coat and cure.
Midnight Blue Elegance
For a bold and classic look, midnight blue nails are a timeless choice for fall. This deep, rich blue shade is reminiscent of the night sky, offering a sleek and sophisticated manicure that works for any occasion. The glossy finish adds a luxurious touch, making this color perfect for those who love to keep it simple yet striking.
Consumables:
-
- CND Shellac Polish in “Midnight Swim”
- CND Shellac Top Coat for a high-gloss finish
- UV/LED Lamp for curing
Instructions:
-
- Start with a base coat and cure under the UV/LED lamp.
- Apply two coats of CND Shellac Polish in “Midnight Swim,” curing after each layer.
- Finish with a CND Shellac Top Coat to enhance the shine and durability, then cure.
- For added hydration, apply cuticle oil to complete the look.
Monochrome Chic with a Twist
This manicure features a striking combination of monochrome zebra print and sleek nude nails, creating a chic yet edgy look. The sharp contrast between the black-and-white pattern and the soft, neutral base makes this design a standout. Perfect for those who love bold prints but want to keep their manicure sophisticated, this look balances wild and refined elements effortlessly.
Consumables:
-
- CND Shellac Polish in “Nude Knickers”
- OPI GelColor in “Black Onyx”
- Zebra print nail decals or a fine nail art brush for the pattern
- CND Shellac Top Coat for sealing
- UV/LED Lamp for curing
Instructions:
-
- Start with a base coat and cure under the UV/LED lamp.
- Apply two coats of CND Shellac Polish in “Nude Knickers” to the nude nails, curing after each coat.
- Use OPI GelColor in “Black Onyx” to create the zebra print design on selected nails using decals or a fine brush, then cure.
- Seal with a CND Shellac Top Coat for long-lasting wear and cure.
Autumn Ombre French Tips
This manicure showcases a beautiful ombre French tip design in warm autumnal shades of orange and nude. The gradient effect adds depth and dimension to the classic French manicure, making it perfect for the fall season. The warm tones evoke the rich colors of falling leaves, creating a cozy yet elegant look suitable for any occasion.
Consumables:
-
- CND Shellac Polish in “Nude Knickers” for the base
- DND Gel Polish in “Spiced Pumpkin” for the tips
- Sponge for creating the ombre effect
- CND Shellac Top Coat for sealing
- UV/LED Lamp for curing
Instructions:
-
- Apply a base coat and cure under the UV/LED lamp.
- Paint two coats of CND Shellac Polish in “Nude Knickers,” curing after each layer.
- Use a sponge to apply DND Gel Polish in “Spiced Pumpkin” to the tips, creating an ombre effect, and cure.
- Seal with a CND Shellac Top Coat and cure.
Crystal-Clear Glam
For those who love a bit of bling, this crystal-adorned manicure is the epitome of elegance. The long, square nails are adorned with a subtle nude base and feature a standout accent nail covered in sparkling crystals. This design is perfect for special occasions, adding a touch of glamour to any outfit without being over the top.
Consumables:
-
- CND Shellac Polish in “Nude Knickers”
- Clear rhinestones of various sizes
- Nail glue or gel adhesive for the rhinestones
- CND Shellac Top Coat for sealing
- UV/LED Lamp for curing
Instructions:
-
- Start by shaping the nails and applying a base coat, then cure.
- Apply two coats of CND Shellac Polish in “Nude Knickers,” curing after each layer.
- Apply nail glue or gel adhesive to the accent nail and carefully place the rhinestones in your desired pattern, then cure.
- Finish with a CND Shellac Top Coat to secure the rhinestones and add shine, then cure.
Forest Green Ombré
This manicure captures the serene beauty of a forest with its ombre effect transitioning from soft white to deep green. The long, stiletto-shaped nails provide an elegant canvas for this design, while the added crystal accents on one nail add a touch of luxury. This look is perfect for those who want to channel a sophisticated, nature-inspired vibe.
Consumables:
-
- CND Shellac Polish in “Cream Puff” for the base
- OPI GelColor in “Lincoln Park After Dark” for the green gradient
- Fine sponge for creating the ombre effect
- Clear rhinestones and nail glue for the accent
- CND Shellac Top Coat for sealing
- UV/LED Lamp for curing
Instructions:
-
- Apply a base coat and cure under the UV/LED lamp.
- Paint two coats of CND Shellac Polish in “Cream Puff,” curing after each layer.
- Use a fine sponge to blend OPI GelColor in “Lincoln Park After Dark” from the tips toward the base, creating the ombre effect, then cure.
- Add rhinestones to the accent nail using nail glue, then cure.
- Seal with a CND Shellac Top Coat and cure.
Bold Geometric Statements
For a modern and artistic twist, this bold geometric manicure features striking contrasts of black, red, and white in sharp, clean lines. The elongated stiletto shape enhances the dramatic effect, making this design perfect for those who love to make a statement. This look is ideal for anyone wanting a unique, high-fashion manicure that stands out in any crowd.
Consumables:
-
- CND Shellac Polish in “Wildfire” (red), “Cream Puff” (white), and “Black Pool”
- Fine detailing brush for precision lines
- CND Shellac Top Coat for a glossy finish
- UV/LED Lamp for curing
Instructions:
-
- Apply a base coat and cure under the UV/LED lamp.
- Carefully apply CND Shellac Polish in “Wildfire,” “Cream Puff,” and “Black Pool” to create the geometric pattern, using a fine detailing brush for precision, then cure.
- Seal the design with a CND Shellac Top Coat and cure.
- Finish with cuticle oil for added hydration and shine.
Subtle Elegance with Gold Accents
This manicure features a refined nude base with delicate gold accents, making it a perfect choice for those who appreciate subtle elegance. The soft, matte finish of the almond-shaped nails contrasts beautifully with the textured gold detail on the accent nail, adding a touch of luxury without overwhelming the design. This look is ideal for both everyday wear and special occasions, offering a sophisticated and timeless style.
Consumables:
-
- CND Shellac Polish in “Nude Knickers”
- Gold chrome powder for the accent nail
- Nail art tools for creating the gold accent
- Matte top coat for the matte finish
- CND Shellac Top Coat for sealing
- UV/LED Lamp for curing
Instructions:
-
- Start with shaping the nails into an almond shape and apply a base coat, then cure.
- Apply two coats of CND Shellac Polish in “Nude Knickers,” curing after each layer.
- Use gold chrome powder and nail art tools to create the textured gold accent on the feature nail, then cure.
- Apply a matte top coat to the nude nails and cure.
- Seal the gold accent nail with a CND Shellac Top Coat for a glossy finish, then cure.
Bold Matte Blue
This manicure showcases a striking matte blue shade that exudes confidence and style. The vibrant blue color is both bold and versatile, making it a standout choice for fall. The matte finish adds a contemporary edge to the look, while the rich hue ensures that your nails are the focal point of your outfit. This design is perfect for those who love to make a statement with their manicure.
Consumables:
-
- CND Shellac Polish in “Azure Wish”
- Matte top coat for the matte finish
- CND Shellac Top Coat for sealing (only if a glossy accent is desired)
- UV/LED Lamp for curing
Instructions:
-
- Begin with a base coat and cure under the UV/LED lamp.
- Apply two coats of CND Shellac Polish in “Azure Wish,” curing after each layer.
- Finish with a matte top coat to achieve the matte effect and cure.
- Optionally, you can add a glossy accent using CND Shellac Top Coat on one nail for contrast, then cure.
Golden Yellow Shine
This vibrant yellow manicure captures the warmth and brightness of the autumn sun. The glossy finish enhances the bold color, making it perfect for those who love to incorporate a pop of color into their fall wardrobe. The accent nail, adorned with a subtle marbled effect, adds an artistic touch to the overall design, keeping it fun and playful.
Consumables:
-
- DND Gel Polish in “Sunshine Yellow”
- OPI GelColor in “Gold Foil” for the marbled accent
- Fine detailing brush for creating the marbled effect
- CND Shellac Top Coat for sealing
- UV/LED Lamp for curing
Instructions:
-
- Apply a base coat and cure under the UV/LED lamp.
- Apply two coats of DND Gel Polish in “Sunshine Yellow,” curing after each layer.
- Use OPI GelColor in “Gold Foil” and a fine brush to create the marbled design on the accent nail, then cure.
- Finish with a CND Shellac Top Coat to seal and enhance the shine, then cure.
Abstract Artistry
This manicure is a celebration of abstract art with its combination of neutral tones and delicate, artistic patterns. Each nail features a unique design, including leaf motifs, soft swirls, and subtle gold accents, creating a cohesive yet varied look. The muted colors keep the design elegant, while the abstract elements add a modern twist, making it perfect for those who love creative and stylish nails.
Consumables:
-
- CND Shellac Polish in “Beige Knickers” for the base
- OPI GelColor in “Alpine Snow” for the white accents
- Fine detailing brushes for creating the abstract designs
- Gold leaf or foil for accents
- CND Shellac Top Coat for sealing
- UV/LED Lamp for curing
Instructions:
-
- Apply a base coat and cure under the UV/LED lamp.
- Paint two coats of CND Shellac Polish in “Beige Knickers,” curing after each layer.
- Use OPI GelColor in “Alpine Snow” and fine brushes to create the abstract designs on each nail, then cure.
- Apply gold leaf or foil accents where desired and cure.
- Seal the design with a CND Shellac Top Coat and cure.
Deep Chocolate Gloss
This manicure embraces the richness of deep chocolate brown, making it an ideal choice for autumn. The glossy finish adds a luxurious feel to the nails, while the dark color is both elegant and versatile. This design is perfect for those who prefer classic and understated nails that still make a strong impression.
Consumables:
-
- CND Shellac Polish in “Black Cherry”
- CND Shellac Top Coat for a high-gloss finish
- UV/LED Lamp for curing
Instructions:
-
- Start with a base coat and cure under the UV/LED lamp.
- Apply two coats of CND Shellac Polish in “Black Cherry,” curing after each layer.
- Finish with a CND Shellac Top Coat to achieve a glossy, long-lasting finish, then cure.
- Optionally, apply cuticle oil to keep the skin hydrated and maintain a polished look.
Pastel Blue Elegance
This manicure blends soft pastel blue with a delicate nude base, enhanced by minimalistic pearl accents, creating a look that’s both elegant and fresh. The subtle blue French tips contrast beautifully with the nude polish, while the pearls add a touch of sophistication. This design is perfect for those who prefer a minimalist approach with a hint of luxury.
Consumables:
-
- CND Shellac Polish in “Cream Puff” for the base
- OPI GelColor in “Infinite Shine” for the pastel blue tips
- Small pearl embellishments for accents
- CND Shellac Top Coat for sealing
- UV/LED Lamp for curing
Instructions:
-
- Apply a base coat and cure under the UV/LED lamp.
- Paint two coats of CND Shellac Polish in “Cream Puff” on the nude nails, curing after each layer.
- Use OPI GelColor in “Infinite Shine” to create the pastel blue tips, then cure.
- Attach small pearls using nail glue, then cure.
- Finish with a CND Shellac Top Coat to seal the design and cure.
Autumn Rose Gradient
This manicure features a stunning gradient of warm, rose-toned hues, ranging from deep berry to soft pink, with a glittery accent nail that adds sparkle to the overall look. The color palette is perfect for fall, capturing the rich tones of autumn leaves while keeping the design fresh and feminine. This is an ideal choice for those who love soft, romantic colors with a bit of shimmer.
Consumables:
-
- CND Shellac Polish in “Rose Brocade”
- DND Gel Polish in “Dusty Rose” for the gradient effect
- OPI GelColor in “Sparkling Champagne” for the glitter accent
- CND Shellac Top Coat for sealing
- UV/LED Lamp for curing
Instructions:
-
- Apply a base coat and cure under the UV/LED lamp.
- Create a gradient effect by blending CND Shellac Polish in “Rose Brocade” and DND Gel Polish in “Dusty Rose” on the nails, curing after each layer.
- Apply OPI GelColor in “Sparkling Champagne” to the accent nail and cure.
- Seal the entire design with a CND Shellac Top Coat and cure.
Fierce Red and Leopard French Tips
This bold manicure combines the classic French tip with a fierce twist, featuring bright red tips and leopard print accents. The sharp contrast between the nude base and the vibrant red tips adds a daring element to the design, while the leopard print keeps it wild and trendy. Perfect for those who love to make a statement, this look is sure to turn heads.
Consumables:
-
- CND Shellac Polish in “Nude Knickers” for the base
- OPI GelColor in “Big Apple Red” for the French tips
- Leopard print nail decals or a fine detailing brush for the pattern
- CND Shellac Top Coat for sealing
- UV/LED Lamp for curing
Instructions:
-
- Begin with a base coat and cure under the UV/LED lamp.
- Apply two coats of CND Shellac Polish in “Nude Knickers,” curing after each layer.
- Create the French tips using OPI GelColor in “Big Apple Red,” then cure.
- Add the leopard print accents using decals or a detailing brush, and cure.
- Finish with a CND Shellac Top Coat to seal the design and cure.
Midnight Glitter Glam
This manicure showcases a rich, deep grey polish with a hint of glitter, creating a look that is both mysterious and glamorous. The subtle sparkle adds depth and dimension to the dark base, making it perfect for evening wear or a sophisticated night out. This design is ideal for those who love a touch of glamour without being overly flashy.
Consumables:
-
- CND Shellac Polish in “Asphalt” for the base
- Fine silver glitter for the sparkle effect
- CND Shellac Top Coat for sealing
- UV/LED Lamp for curing
Instructions:
-
- Start with a base coat and cure under the UV/LED lamp.
- Apply two coats of CND Shellac Polish in “Asphalt,” curing after each layer.
- Add a fine layer of silver glitter to the nails before the final cure.
- Finish with a CND Shellac Top Coat to seal the glitter and add shine, then cure.
Delicate Floral Accent
This manicure combines a soft nude base with a delicate floral accent and a pop of pastel green, creating a look that is both fresh and feminine. The floral design adds a whimsical touch to the overall elegance, making it perfect for a romantic occasion or simply to celebrate the beauty of nature. This design is ideal for those who love subtle, artistic details in their manicure.
Consumables:
-
- CND Shellac Polish in “Nude Knickers” for the base
- OPI GelColor in “Pastel Green” for the accent nail
- Fine detailing brush for the floral design
- CND Shellac Top Coat for sealing
- UV/LED Lamp for curing
Instructions:
-
- Apply a base coat and cure under the UV/LED lamp.
- Paint two coats of CND Shellac Polish in “Nude Knickers,” curing after each layer.
- Apply OPI GelColor in “Pastel Green” to the accent nail and cure.
- Use a fine brush to create the delicate floral design on the feature nail, then cure.
- Seal the design with a CND Shellac Top Coat and cure.
Save Pin
