When it comes to nails, there are two types of girlies: those who stick to what they know (like me - I'm a pinks, reds and browns stan) and those who see every new set as a chance to try something different.
As ever, this season’s nail trends offer something for every taste. We spoke to Annabelle Taurua , a beauty expert at treatment-booking platform Fresha, and Juanita Huber-Millet, founder and creative director of luxury nail salon Townhouse, to get the inside scoop on what everyone is asking for this season.
Bedazzed nails
Annabelle says: "Simply add 3D rhinestones, colourful gems, or pearls to your usual manicure, This looks best on a sheer or pastel base or a pink BIAB nail, adding a “whimsical” statement. You can easily incorporate the whimsy trend into your next appointment; for example, ask your nail technician to add some pearls, gems, or a little extra sparkle to your usual minimal manicure."
Jammy Nails
Annabelle says: "Jammy nails are part of the wider juicy, syrupy, jelly-like nail movement, leaning more toward jammy reds this autumn alongside other colours like bordeaux, spiced cherry, and similar deep, rich shades. Jammy nails give a fruit-jam-like appearance. For autumn 2026, the trend makes sense because the season’s nail palette is moving towards more indulgent, richer, and darker colours."
Nail Art
Juanita says: "I think AW26 will be all about elevated, wearable nail art. We’ll see rich mocha and coffee tones, tonal neutrals and more playful effects layered over your usual mani. Think cat-eye effects, warmer chrome finishes and French manicures with a twist. At Townhouse, we’re giving the classic French a modern update with our ‘Dirty Chai’ design, featuring a warm chai French and animal-print tip. I also think subtle diamanté detailing will be big, adding personality while keeping nails polished and sophisticated."
Coconut milk
Annabelle says: "Coconut milk nails are a sheer, creamy-white manicure with a glossy, milky finish. This nail trend is emerging as a softer alternative to traditional autumn darker nail shades. Coconut milk is a barely-there colour that gives a clean, healthy-looking finish and was worn recently by actor Vicky McClure at the National Television Awards, almost serving as an easy transition from summer to autumn."
Pumpkin spice nails
Annabelle says: "Pumpkin spice nails are a staple autumn-inspired manicure trend built around the warm colours and aromas associated with pumpkin spice. This nail trend uses colours such as burnt orange, cinnamon, caramel, copper, and other golden warm tones. Pumpkin spice nails can be personalised in many ways with finishes such as chrome, cat-eye, velvet, shimmer or ombré."
Shade focused
Juanita says: "For AW26, we’re seeing nail colour move towards richer, more considered tones that feel both modern and timeless. There’s something particularly luxurious about warm, coffee-inspired shades like Townhouse’s Flawless Polish in ‘Mocha’, while softer tones like ‘Chai Latte’ bring an effortlessly chic feel. I think the appeal this season is in colours that feel elevated but still incredibly wearable, shades that complement your look rather than compete with it. It’s a more understated approach to colour, but one that still makes a statement through depth, warmth and a beautifully refined finish."
