Stunning Fall Shellac Nails: 23 Trendy Ideas and Colors

Fall is the perfect time to experiment with new nail designs and colors, especially with the versatility and durability of shellac nails. Whether you’re a fan of bold, dark hues or prefer more subtle and sophisticated shades, there’s something for everyone in the world of fall shellac nails. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most popular designs and colors for 2024, providing detailed descriptions and expert tips on how to recreate these looks at home. Let’s dive into the latest trends and find the perfect style for your next manicure!

Rich Burgundy Elegance

Burgundy is a classic fall color that exudes elegance and sophistication. This deep, rich shade is perfect for those who love a more traditional look with a modern twist. The shellac finish adds a glossy shine that enhances the depth of the color, making your nails stand out. The sharp stiletto shape of these nails adds an edgy vibe, perfect for those who want to make a statement.

Consumables:

• • CND Shellac in ‘Bloodline’
  • OPI Top Coat
  • Gelish Foundation Base Coat
  • LED/UV Lamp

How to Create:

1. 1. Start with a clean and shaped nail.
   2. Apply a base coat and cure under an LED lamp.
   3. Apply two layers of CND Shellac in ‘Bloodline’, curing each layer.
   4. Finish with a glossy top coat and cure for a long-lasting finish.

Olive Green Sophistication

Olive green is a trendy color that brings a touch of nature to your nails. This shade is versatile, pairing well with various fall outfits and accessories. The shellac finish ensures that the color remains vibrant and chip-free for weeks. The almond shape of the nails adds a touch of elegance, making this design suitable for both casual and formal occasions.

Consumables:

• • DND Gel Polish in ‘Olive You’
  • OPI Bond Aid
  • CND SolarOil
  • Buffer and File

How to Create:

1. 1. Prepare the nails by shaping and buffing the surface.
   2. Apply OPI Bond Aid to clean the nail surface.
   3. Apply DND Gel Polish in ‘Olive You’, curing each layer.
   4. Finish with a top coat and cure for a durable finish.

Deep Forest Green

A rich forest green is perfect for those who love bold and earthy tones. This shade is ideal for the cooler months, evoking the deep, lush colors of nature. The shellac finish ensures a long-lasting, glossy look. The short, rounded shape of these nails adds a practical touch, making them suitable for everyday wear.

Consumables:

• • OPI GelColor in ‘Stay Off the Lawn!’
  • CND Shellac Base Coat
  • Gelish No Cleanse Top Coat
  • Nail Art Brush

How to Create:

1. 1. Clean and shape the nails, then apply a base coat and cure.
   2. Apply two layers of OPI GelColor in ‘Stay Off the Lawn!’, curing each layer.
   3. Seal with a no-cleanse top coat for a glossy finish.

Vibrant Red Matte

Matte nails offer a chic alternative to the classic glossy finish. This vibrant red shade is perfect for making a bold statement. The matte finish adds a modern twist, making it a great choice for those who love unique nail designs. The medium-length, square shape of these nails adds a touch of sophistication.

Consumables:

• • Essie Gel Couture in ‘Rock the Runway’
  • CND Matte Top Coat
  • Buffer Block
  • LED/UV Lamp

How to Create:

1. 1. Prepare the nails by shaping and buffing.
   2. Apply a base coat and cure under an LED lamp.
   3. Apply two coats of Essie Gel Couture in ‘Rock the Runway’, curing each layer.
   4. Finish with a matte top coat for a velvety finish.

Bold Cobalt Blue

Cobalt blue is a bold and eye-catching color that adds a pop of color to your fall wardrobe. This shade is perfect for those who love vibrant and daring nail designs. The shellac finish provides a glossy and durable look, ensuring your nails stay flawless for weeks. The short, rounded shape of these nails makes them practical and stylish.

Consumables:

• • CND Shellac in ‘Blue Eyeshadow’
  • OPI Bondex
  • Gelish Top It Off
  • Cuticle Pusher

How to Create:

1. 1. Shape and clean the nails, then apply a base coat and cure.
   2. Apply two coats of CND Shellac in ‘Blue Eyeshadow’, curing each layer.
   3. Seal with a top coat and cure for a long-lasting finish.

Glittering Teal Magic

Teal is a versatile color that transitions beautifully from summer to fall. The addition of subtle glitter to these teal nails adds a touch of magic, making them perfect for both casual and formal events. The medium length and rounded shape of the nails offer a balance between elegance and practicality, making this design suitable for everyday wear. The rich, deep color combined with the sparkle gives these nails a unique and captivating look.

Consumables:

• • CND Shellac in ‘Midnight Swim’
  • Glitter top coat from OPI
  • Essie Gel Couture Top Coat
  • Nail buffer and cuticle pusher

How to Create:

1. 1. Start by shaping and buffing the nails.
   2. Apply a base coat and cure under an LED lamp.
   3. Apply two layers of CND Shellac in ‘Midnight Swim’, curing each layer.
   4. Add a glitter top coat and cure.
   5. Finish with a high-shine top coat for a long-lasting, sparkling finish.

Rich Chocolate Delight

Chocolate brown is a cozy and comforting color, perfect for the fall season. These nails feature a deep, rich brown shade with a glossy finish, creating a sophisticated and chic look. The smooth, rounded shape adds to the elegance of this simple yet impactful design. It’s a perfect choice for those who prefer neutral tones with a hint of warmth.

Consumables:

• • OPI GelColor in ‘That’s What Friends Are Thor’
  • CND Shellac Top Coat
  • Nail file and buffer
  • Cuticle oil

How to Create:

1. 1. Shape and clean the nails, then apply a base coat and cure.
   2. Apply two coats of OPI GelColor in ‘That’s What Friends Are Thor’, curing each layer.
   3. Seal with a top coat and cure.
   4. Finish with cuticle oil for added hydration.

Mystical Purple Glam

Purple is a color often associated with royalty and mystery, and this shade does not disappoint. The shimmering purple nails have a subtle metallic finish, adding a touch of glamor. The square shape and medium length make these nails practical for daily wear while still standing out. This design is perfect for those who love a bit of sparkle without being too overwhelming.

Consumables:

• • Essie Gel Couture in ‘Twilight Sky’
  • CND Shellac Luxe Top Coat
  • Fine glitter dust
  • Buffer block and LED lamp

How to Create:

1. 1. Buff and shape the nails to your desired length.
   2. Apply a base coat and cure.
   3. Apply two coats of Essie Gel Couture in ‘Twilight Sky’, curing each layer.
   4. Add a layer of fine glitter dust and cure.
   5. Seal with a luxe top coat for a glossy finish.

Dark Cherry Allure

A deep cherry red is a timeless choice for fall, exuding warmth and sophistication. These nails have a rich, glossy finish that enhances the dark, seductive hue. The almond shape adds elegance, making this design perfect for special occasions or a night out. It’s a classic color that never goes out of style, making it a staple for any nail polish collection.

Consumables:

• • Risqué Gel Nail Polish in ‘Rebu’
  • Impala Gel Nail Polish in ‘Destinos Cremoso’
  • Gelish Foundation Base Coat
  • LED/UV Lamp

How to Create:

1. 1. File and shape the nails, then apply a base coat and cure.
   2. Apply two layers of Risqué Gel Nail Polish in ‘Rebu’, curing each layer.
   3. Finish with a glossy top coat for a long-lasting shine.

Soft Pink Elegance

For those who prefer a more subtle and understated look, soft pink nails are an excellent choice. This design features a delicate, pale pink color with a glossy finish, giving the nails a natural and clean appearance. The oval shape and short length make these nails practical and versatile, perfect for any occasion.

Consumables:

• • CND Shellac in ‘Romantique’
  • OPI Infinite Shine Top Coat
  • Cuticle trimmer and buffer
  • UV/LED Lamp

How to Create:

1. 1. Start by trimming and shaping the nails.
   2. Apply a base coat and cure under a UV/LED lamp.
   3. Apply two coats of CND Shellac in ‘Romantique’, curing each layer.
   4. Seal with OPI Infinite Shine Top Coat and cure.
   5. Finish with cuticle oil to maintain nail health.

Electric Blue Waves

This vibrant electric blue nail design is perfect for those who love to make a bold statement. The addition of subtle wavy patterns in a lighter blue adds a dynamic and artistic touch. The short, square shape is practical and stylish, making it a versatile choice for various occasions. This design is ideal for showcasing the colors of 2024, with a modern twist on classic blue tones.

Consumables:

• • OPI GelColor in ‘Do You Sea What I Sea?’
  • Essie Nail Polish in ‘Butler Please’
  • Nail art brush for wave designs
  • LED/UV Lamp

How to Create:

1. 1. Shape and prepare the nails, then apply a base coat and cure.
   2. Apply two coats of OPI GelColor in ‘Do You Sea What I Sea?’, curing each layer.
   3. Use a nail art brush to create wavy patterns with Essie ‘Butler Please’.
   4. Finish with a top coat and cure for a glossy and durable finish.

Playful Orange and Blue Contrast

Combining vibrant orange and deep blue, this nail design is a playful and eye-catching choice for fall. The blue nails are adorned with tiny specks of gold glitter, adding a touch of sparkle. The contrast between the warm and cool tones creates a visually striking effect. The square shape and medium length are both chic and functional.

Consumables:

• • CND Vinylux in ‘Desert Poppy’
  • OPI GelColor in ‘Yank My Doodle’
  • Glitter top coat from China Glaze
  • Nail file and buffer

How to Create:

1. 1. File and buff the nails, then apply a base coat and cure.
   2. Paint alternate nails with CND Vinylux in ‘Desert Poppy’ and OPI GelColor in ‘Yank My Doodle’.
   3. Add a layer of glitter top coat to the blue nails and cure.
   4. Seal with a top coat and cure for a long-lasting finish.

Mystical Purple Sparkle

For those who love a bit of glam, this mystical purple nail design is perfect. The deep purple base is complemented by a fine shimmer, giving the nails a luxurious and magical appearance. The square shape is classic and versatile, suitable for both casual and formal settings. This design showcases the beautiful fall shellac nails trends, with a focus on rich, dark colors.

Consumables:

• • Essie Gel Couture in ‘Turn ‘N’ Pose’
  • CND Shellac Top Coat
  • Fine purple glitter
  • LED/UV Lamp

How to Create:

1. 1. Start by shaping and buffing the nails.
   2. Apply a base coat and cure under an LED lamp.
   3. Apply two coats of Essie Gel Couture in ‘Turn ‘N’ Pose’, curing each layer.
   4. Add a layer of fine purple glitter and cure.
   5. Finish with a top coat for a dazzling finish.

Elegant Snake Print and Matte Black

This sophisticated nail design features a combination of snake print and matte black, creating a chic and edgy look. The intricate snake print design on two accent nails adds a touch of luxury, while the matte black nails provide a modern contrast. The stiletto shape enhances the overall elegance of the design, making it perfect for those who want to make a statement.

Consumables:

• • OPI GelColor in ‘Black Onyx’
  • Snake print nail decals
  • Matte top coat from Essie
  • Nail file and cuticle pusher

How to Create:

1. 1. Shape and prepare the nails, then apply a base coat and cure.
   2. Apply OPI GelColor in ‘Black Onyx’ to all nails and cure.
   3. Apply snake print decals to two accent nails.
   4. Finish with a matte top coat for a sophisticated look.

Fiery Red and White Leaves

This design combines fiery red nails with delicate white leaf accents, creating a stunning contrast. The bold red color is eye-catching and perfect for fall, while the intricate leaf designs add a touch of elegance. The long, almond shape enhances the overall sophistication of the design. This look is perfect for those who love vibrant and unique nail art.

Consumables:

• • CND Shellac in ‘Wildfire’
  • White nail art pen or brush
  • Essie Gel Couture Top Coat
  • Nail file and buffer

How to Create:

1. 1. Shape the nails into a long almond shape and prepare them for polish.
   2. Apply a base coat and cure under an LED lamp.
   3. Apply two coats of CND Shellac in ‘Wildfire’, curing each layer.
   4. Use a white nail art pen or brush to draw delicate leaf designs on a couple of accent nails.
   5. Finish with a top coat for a glossy and long-lasting finish.

Blue Waves and Metallic Accents

This nail design is a perfect blend of artistic expression and chic elegance. The base is a soft nude color, with bold blue wavy lines sweeping across the nails. Silver metallic beads are strategically placed along the waves, adding a three-dimensional effect and a touch of glamour. The medium-length almond shape enhances the overall sophistication, making this design suitable for both casual and formal occasions.

Consumables:

• • CND Shellac in ‘Nude Knickers’
  • OPI GelColor in ‘My Car Has Navy-gation’
  • Metallic nail beads
  • Gelish Top It Off
  • Nail art brush

How to Create:

1. 1. Prepare the nails by shaping and buffing them.
   2. Apply a base coat and cure under an LED lamp.
   3. Paint wavy lines with OPI GelColor in ‘My Car Has Navy-gation’ and cure.
   4. Place metallic beads along the waves and secure them with a top coat.
   5. Cure for a glossy and durable finish.

Glittering White French and Floral Elegance

This design combines the classic French manicure with a touch of sparkle and delicate floral accents. The nails feature a glittery nude base with a crisp white tip, accented by a 3D white floral design on one nail. The square shape adds to the timeless appeal of this design, perfect for brides or any elegant event.

Consumables:

• • Essie Gel Couture in ‘Lace to the Altar’
  • CND Shellac in ‘Cream Puff’
  • 3D floral nail art decorations
  • LED/UV Lamp
  • Nail glue

How to Create:

1. 1. Shape the nails into a square and apply a base coat.
   2. Apply a glittery nude polish and cure under an LED lamp.
   3. Create a French tip with CND Shellac in ‘Cream Puff’ and cure.
   4. Attach the 3D floral decorations with nail glue and cure.
   5. Finish with a top coat for a lasting shine.

Vibrant Blue Short Nails

For a pop of color, these vibrant blue short nails are perfect. The bright blue shade is bold and eye-catching, ideal for making a statement. The short, rounded shape is practical and versatile, making this design suitable for everyday wear. The simplicity of the design allows the color to be the main focus.

Consumables:

• • OPI GelColor in ‘My Chihuahua Doesn’t Bite Anymore’
  • CND Shellac Base Coat
  • OPI Infinite Shine Top Coat
  • Buffer and file

How to Create:

1. 1. Start by filing and buffing the nails.
   2. Apply a base coat and cure under an LED lamp.
   3. Apply two coats of OPI GelColor in ‘My Chihuahua Doesn’t Bite Anymore’, curing each layer.
   4. Finish with a top coat for a glossy and long-lasting finish.

Soft Pink Almond Elegance

These soft pink nails offer a subtle and elegant look. The delicate pink shade is perfect for those who prefer a more understated and classic design. The almond shape enhances the overall sophistication, making it suitable for both everyday wear and special occasions.

Consumables:

• • CND Shellac in ‘Beau’
  • Essie Gel Couture Top Coat
  • Nail file and buffer
  • Cuticle oil

How to Create:

1. 1. Shape the nails into an almond shape and prepare them for polish.
   2. Apply a base coat and cure under an LED lamp.
   3. Apply two coats of CND Shellac in ‘Beau’, curing each layer.
   4. Seal with a top coat and cure for a glossy finish.

Wild Leopard and Matte Green

This bold and playful design features a combination of leopard print, matte green, and classic French tips. The mix of textures and patterns makes this design eye-catching and unique. The leopard print brings a wild and adventurous vibe, while the matte green adds a modern twist. The long, coffin shape adds to the drama, making this design perfect for those who love to stand out.

Consumables:

• • OPI GelColor in ‘My Private Jet’
  • DND Gel Polish in ‘Emerald’
  • Matte top coat from Essie
  • Leopard print nail decals
  • Nail file and buffer

How to Create:

1. 1. Shape the nails into a coffin shape and prepare them for polish.
   2. Apply a base coat and cure under an LED lamp.
   3. Apply OPI GelColor in ‘My Private Jet’ and DND Gel Polish in ‘Emerald’ on alternate nails, curing each layer.
   4. Add leopard print decals to the designated nails.
   5. Finish with a matte top coat and cure for a sophisticated finish.

Fiery Red and Elegant French Manicure

This stunning nail design combines the boldness of a fiery red with the classic elegance of a French manicure. The vibrant red nails are eye-catching and full of energy, while the French tips are softened with a golden glitter curve, adding a touch of luxury. The square shape enhances the sophisticated yet playful nature of the design, making it perfect for both everyday wear and special occasions.

Consumables:

• • Anita Nail Polish in ‘Vai Casar’
  • OPI GelColor in ‘Alpine Snow’
  • Golden glitter nail polish
  • CND Shellac Top Coat
  • LED/UV Lamp

How to Create:

1. 1. Start by filing and buffing the nails into a square shape.
   2. Apply a base coat and cure under an LED lamp.
   3. Paint the French tips with OPI GelColor in ‘Alpine Snow’ and cure.
   4. Add a golden glitter curve just above the French tips and cure.
   5. Paint the remaining nails with Anita Nail Polish in ‘Vai Casar’ and cure.
   6. Finish with a top coat for a glossy and long-lasting finish.

Deep Burgundy Almond Nails

These deep burgundy nails are a perfect example of sophistication and elegance. The rich, dark color is perfect for fall and adds a sense of mystery and allure. The almond shape elongates the fingers, enhancing the overall elegant appearance. This design is versatile and suitable for any occasion, from casual outings to formal events.

Consumables:

• • OPI GelColor in ‘Malaga Wine’
  • CND Shellac Base Coat
  • Essie Gel Couture Top Coat
  • Nail buffer and file

How to Create:

1. 1. Shape the nails into an almond shape and buff the surface.
   2. Apply a base coat and cure under an LED lamp.
   3. Apply two coats of OPI GelColor in ‘Malaga Wine’, curing each layer.
   4. Finish with a top coat for a high-shine and durable finish.

Classic Deep Red Nails

A classic deep red manicure never goes out of style. These nails feature a rich and glossy burgundy color that exudes sophistication and class. The short, square shape adds a practical and timeless element to the design, making it suitable for everyday wear or a special occasion. The deep red shade is perfect for fall, adding warmth and elegance to any outfit.

Consumables:

• • OPI GelColor in ‘Got the Blues for Red’
  • CND Shellac Top Coat
  • Cuticle oil
  • Nail file and buffer

How to Create:

1. 1. Start by filing and shaping the nails into a short square.
   2. Apply a base coat and cure under an LED lamp.
   3. Apply two coats of OPI GelColor in ‘Got the Blues for Red’, curing each layer.
   4. Seal with a top coat for a glossy finish.
   5. Apply cuticle oil to keep nails healthy and hydrated.