19 Fall 2024 Shellac Nails: Explore Top Trends and Designs!

Are you ready to flaunt the trendiest fall shellac nails this 2024? Whether you’re a manicure maven or a novice looking to spice up your nail game, this guide will take you through a plethora of stylish and practical shellac nail designs perfect for the fall season. What makes shellac the go-to choice for this autumn? How can you achieve salon-worthy nails right at home? Let’s explore the chic world of fall shellac nails together!

Timeless Elegance: Nude Shellac for Every Occasion

The first design captures the essence of timeless elegance with its soothing nude shellac polish. This look is all about subtlety and finesse, featuring a semi-opaque finish that enhances the natural beauty of the nails. The slight sheen reflects light beautifully, making it an ideal choice for both day and night engagements. From a professional standpoint, this style is perfect for those who prefer a low-maintenance yet sophisticated manicure.

Photo credit by: @eleni.nails_for_you

Consumables List

• Shellac Base Coat – CND Shellac Base Coat for a smooth foundation.
• Nude Shellac Polish – CND Shellac in “Bare Chemise” for that perfect nude shade.
• Shellac Top Coat – CND Shellac Top Coat to ensure a glossy finish and durability.
• UV/LED Lamp – to cure the polish effectively.

DIY Instructions

To recreate this elegant nude shellac manicure:

1. Start with clean, buffed nails.
2. Apply the shellac base coat and cure under a UV/LED lamp for 2 minutes.
3. Follow with two coats of “Bare Chemise,” curing after each application.
4. Seal with a top coat and cure for a final 2 minutes.
5. Wipe with isopropyl alcohol to remove any sticky residue.

Bold and Beautiful: Vibrant Pink and Lavender

This striking design showcases a bold combination of vibrant pink and soothing lavender, arranged in a trendy alternating pattern. The glossy finish of the shellac gives it a fresh and vivacious look, perfect for fall gatherings and festive occasions. The choice of bright pink paired with a muted lavender creates a playful contrast that is both eye-catching and fashionable.

Photo credit by: @shellac_nail_bar

Consumables List

• Vibrant Pink Shellac Polish – OPI GelColor in “Hotter than You Pink.”
• Lavender Shellac Polish – Essie Gel Couture in “Touch Up.”
• Shellac Top Coat – for a lasting shine and protection.
• Nail Strips – for clean lines between colors.

DIY Instructions

To achieve this vibrant look:

1. Apply a base coat and cure.
2. Paint alternating nails with pink and lavender, curing after each color.
3. Use nail strips for sharp lines if desired.
4. Apply a top coat and cure to set the design.

Classic Redefined: Deep Burgundy for a Warm Fall

The deep burgundy shellac showcased in this design is quintessentially fall. It’s a classic redefined with a deeper, richer tone that speaks to the warmth and coziness of the season. This shade is not only versatile but also exudes a sense of luxury and depth, making it a staple for any fall nail wardrobe.

Photo credit by: @cndworld

Consumables List

• Deep Burgundy Shellac Polish – CND Shellac in “Masquerade.”
• Shellac Base and Top Coat – to ensure longevity and a stellar finish.
• Gold Flakes – optional, for an added touch of elegance.

DIY Instructions

To create this warm burgundy look:

1. Apply a base coat and cure.
2. Layer on two coats of “Masquerade,” curing each coat.
3. For an opulent touch, apply gold flakes before the final top coat.
4. Cure with a top coat and cleanse the nail surface.

Subtle Sparkle: Winter White with Glitter

This delightful design combines the understated elegance of winter white with the playful sparkle of fine glitter. The result is a chic, festive look perfect for the fall season, transitioning beautifully into the cooler months. The nails are kept short, enhancing practicality while maintaining a glamorous aesthetic. This look is particularly appealing for those who favor a subtle yet noticeable manicure.

Photo credit by: @neolution.mk

Consumables List

• White Shellac Polish – Essie Gel Couture in “Pre-Show Jitters.”
• Fine Glitter Top Coat – OPI Designer Series in “Diamond Dust.”
• Shellac Base and Top Coat – for durability and shine.
• Mini Brush – for precise glitter application.

DIY Instructions

Creating this glitter-infused white manicure:

1. Apply a base coat and cure under UV light.
2. Apply two coats of the white shellac polish, curing after each layer.
3. Dip the mini brush in the glitter top coat and apply sparingly for a subtle shimmer.
4. Finish with a top coat and cure to seal the glitter.

Modern Art: Geometric Minimalism

This design features a modern take on nail art with minimalist geometric patterns over a soft lavender base. The clean lines and shapes, achieved using a fine nail art brush, give this manicure a contemporary and artistic feel. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a touch of creative flair without overwhelming their look.

Photo credit by: @awitkowska85

Consumables List

• Lavender Shellac Polish – Sally Hansen Miracle Gel in “Lilac Insomniac.”
• White Shellac Polish – for the geometric accents.
• Fine Nail Art Brush – for precise lines and shapes.
• Shellac Top Coat – to ensure the design’s longevity.

DIY Instructions

To replicate this geometric minimalist design:

1. Start with a lavender base and cure.
2. Using a fine brush, draw geometric shapes with white polish.
3. Cure each design element before applying the next to prevent smudging.
4. Seal with a top coat and cure for a smooth finish.

Bold Blue: A Pop of Color

This eye-catching design features a bold, cobalt blue that stands out as a vibrant choice for fall. The high-gloss finish and full coverage color provide a striking contrast to typical fall hues, making it a statement piece for any outfit. This choice is fantastic for those looking to make a splash at seasonal events with a pop of intense color.

Photo credit by: @nailsby_rm

Consumables List

• Cobalt Blue Shellac Polish – Gelish Soak-Off Gel Polish in “Caution.”
• Shellac Base Coat and Top Coat – for a flawless application and finish.
• UV/LED Lamp – for curing each coat effectively.

DIY Instructions

To achieve this bold blue look:

1. Apply the base coat and cure.
2. Paint two coats of the cobalt blue polish, curing after each application.
3. Finish with a top coat and cure to enhance the color’s vibrancy and ensure longevity.

Sheer Sophistication: Creamy Nude

This manicure exemplifies sheer sophistication with its creamy nude tone that provides a clean, polished look. The slightly glossy finish adds a touch of elegance, making it versatile for both day-to-day activities and special occasions. It’s an excellent choice for anyone seeking a manicure that complements a multitude of outfits and settings.

Photo credit by: @cndhungary

Consumables List

• Creamy Nude Shellac Polish – CND Shellac in “Satin Pajamas.”
• Shellac Base and Top Coat – for a smooth application and lasting wear.
• UV/LED Lamp – essential for curing shellac polish.

DIY Instructions

To achieve this creamy nude manicure:

1. Apply the shellac base coat and cure under UV light.
2. Paint two coats of “Satin Pajamas,” curing each coat for two minutes.
3. Finish with a shellac top coat and cure for lasting shine and protection.

Playful Polka Dots: Orange and White

This design is a playful twist on traditional fall colors with bright orange and crisp white polka dots. The vibrant orange provides a stark contrast against the white base, making it a fun and eye-catching choice for autumn festivities. This manicure is perfect for those looking to add a playful element to their fall nail repertoire.

Photo credit by: @geovana.santosuk

Consumables List

• Orange Shellac Polish – OPI GelColor in “A Good Man-darin is Hard to Find.”
• White Shellac Polish – for the polka dots.
• Dotting Tool – to create perfect dots.
• Shellac Top Coat – to seal in the design.

DIY Instructions

To create this orange and white polka dot design:

1. Start with a white base and cure.
2. Dip the dotting tool into orange polish and apply dots evenly across each nail.
3. Cure the design to set the dots.
4. Apply a top coat and cure for a glossy finish.

Marbled Magic: Pink and Orange Swirls

This marbled manicure merges pink and orange swirls to create a vibrant, fluid design that’s both striking and playful. The technique involves swirling the colors together while still wet, resulting in a seamless blend that looks like wearable art. This style is particularly suitable for creative personalities who love a dynamic and colorful nail design.

Photo credit by: @la_beautique

Consumables List

• Pink Shellac Polish – Gelish in “Pink Smoothie.”
• Orange Shellac Polish – Essie Gel in “Tart Deco.”
• Marbling Tool – to blend and swirl the colors.
• Shellac Base and Top Coat – for durability and a high-gloss finish.

DIY Instructions

To achieve this marbled effect:

1. Apply a base coat and cure.
2. Drop pink and orange polishes onto the nail.
3. Use the marbling tool to gently swirl the colors together.
4. Cure the design to set the swirls.
5. Finish with a top coat for a shiny, long-lasting manicure.

Gilded Autumn: Golden Textures

This design captures the essence of autumn with its textured golden polish, reminiscent of fallen leaves and crisp autumn mornings. The rich texture adds a luxurious depth to the nails, making them a statement accessory in themselves. This style is perfect for those looking to add a touch of opulence to their fall wardrobe.

Photo credit by: @gloss_nails_bar_

Consumables List

• Gold Textured Polish – OPI in “GoldenEye.”
• Shellac Base Coat – for a smooth base layer.
• Matte Top Coat – to accentuate the textured effect without extra shine.
• UV/LED Lamp – for curing shellac polish.

DIY Instructions

To create this golden textured look:

1. Apply the base coat and cure under UV light.
2. Layer on the gold textured polish; allow a slightly thicker layer for texture.
3. Cure without a glossy finish, apply a matte top coat instead, then cure again.
4. Enjoy the rich, textured feel and look of autumnal gold!

Floral Whimsy: Minty Fresh with Botanical Accents

This playful design features a fresh mint base accented with delicate white botanical illustrations. The nails are speckled lightly to add a touch of whimsy and depth. This design is an excellent choice for those who prefer a more artistic and detailed approach to their manicures, suitable for both everyday wear and special occasions.

Photo credit by: @letsdesign.au

Consumables List

• Mint Green Shellac Polish – CND Shellac in “Mint Convertible.”
• White Art Paint – for drawing the botanicals.
• Fine Detail Brush – for intricate art.
• Speckle Top Coat – for a unique finish.
• Shellac Top Coat – to seal in the artwork.

DIY Instructions

To achieve this minty fresh botanical design:

1. Start with a base of mint green and cure.
2. Use a fine brush to hand-paint white botanical designs.
3. Add a speckle coat for texture and cure.
4. Seal with a top coat for durability and gloss.

Playful Pastels: Lavender and Peach Charms

This charming design blends soft lavender and peach tones with playful drawings and characters. It’s a fun, youthful style that incorporates creative elements like faces and lightning bolts, making it a hit among those who enjoy expressive and personalized nail art.

Photo credit by: @la_beautique

Consumables List

• Lavender Shellac Polish – Essie Gel Couture in “Touch Up.”
• Peach Shellac Polish – OPI GelColor in “Freedom of Peach.”
• Black and White Art Paints – for the details and characters.
• Detail Brushes – for precision in drawing.
• Shellac Top Coat – for a smooth, protective finish.

DIY Instructions

To create this playful pastel manicure:

1. Apply alternating base colors of lavender and peach, and cure.
2. Draw the designs and characters using detail brushes.
3. Cure each nail after painting to set the art.
4. Apply a top coat to protect and add shine to your creative designs.

Enchanted Mosaic: Neon Confetti

This vibrant design features an eye-catching mosaic of neon confetti patterns, perfect for brightening up cooler fall days. The lively green base is adorned with lighter green highlights, giving a textured and dynamic appeal that’s both modern and fun. Ideal for the bold fashionista looking to make a statement with their manicure.

Photo credit by: @evahallnails

Consumables List

• Neon Green Shellac Polish – Essie Gel Couture in “Vibrant Vibes.”
• Light Green Glitter – for the confetti highlights.
• Shellac Base and Top Coat – for lasting wear and shine.
• Dotting Tool – to place glitter precisely.

DIY Instructions

To replicate this neon confetti manicure:

1. Apply a base coat, then paint the neon green as the base color and cure.
2. Sprinkle light green glitter with a dotting tool to create the confetti effect.
3. Cure the design to set the glitter, then apply a top coat for a glossy finish.

Sunshine and Lavender: A Touch of Warmth

This manicure combines sunny yellow with touches of lavender, creating a warm, inviting look. The simplicity of solid yellow paired with a single lavender-accented nail shows a stylish restraint, making this design versatile for both casual and formal occasions. It’s a delightful choice for those who appreciate minimalistic elegance with a pop of color.

Photo credit by: @yoursalexandra

Consumables List

• Sunny Yellow Shellac Polish – OPI GelColor in “Exotic Birds Do Not Tweet.”
• Lavender Shellac Polish – CND Shellac in “Wisteria Haze.”
• Shellac Base and Top Coat – for a flawless application and long-lasting shine.

DIY Instructions

Creating this warm manicure:

1. Start with a base coat and cure.
2. Apply sunny yellow on all nails except one, where lavender is used, and cure.
3. Finish with a top coat for enhanced color vibrancy and protection.

Polka Dot Parade: Colorful Confetti

This playful design is a polka dot parade, featuring a multicolored confetti pattern on a pastel base. Each nail sports a different pastel shade—pink, blue, green, yellow, and lavender—sprinkled with contrasting dots for a festive and cheerful look. This manicure is perfect for those who love to carry a bit of fun at their fingertips.

Photo credit by: @sarahpnails

Consumables List

• Pastel Shellac Polishes – A variety of shades like Essie’s pastel collection.
• Black Dotting Polish – for the confetti dots.
• Dotting Tool – for precise dot application.
• Shellac Base and Top Coat – to ensure the manicure’s durability.

DIY Instructions

To create this polka dot confetti look:

1. Apply the base coat and cure.
2. Paint each nail a different pastel color and cure.
3. Use the dotting tool to apply contrasting dots over the pastel base.
4. Cure the design, then apply a top coat for a smooth, lasting finish.

Minimalist Chic: Soft Beige

This manicure showcases minimalist chic with its soft beige polish, providing a clean and sophisticated look. The matte finish emphasizes the modern simplicity of the color, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate understated elegance. This style is perfect for everyday wear or professional settings.

Photo credit by: @cndhungary

Consumables List

• Soft Beige Shellac Polish – Essie Gel Couture in “Take Me To Thread.”
• Matte Top Coat – to achieve the sophisticated matte finish.
• Shellac Base Coat – for a smooth application.
• UV/LED Lamp – for curing each layer.

DIY Instructions

To achieve this soft beige matte look:

1. Apply the base coat and cure under UV light.
2. Apply two coats of soft beige polish, curing after each coat.
3. Finish with a matte top coat and cure to set the sophisticated look.

Modern Art Deco: Neutral with Geometric Flair

This design infuses a modern twist into classic art deco by using neutral tones with bold geometric shapes. The combination of sharp lines and clear color blocking creates an aesthetically pleasing contrast that’s both artistic and stylish. This manicure is ideal for those looking to make a statement with their nail art.

Photo credit by: @janaxxnails

Consumables List

• Neutral Shellac Polishes – Various shades for the geometric design.
• Striping Tape – for precise lines and shapes.
• Shellac Top Coat – for a glossy, protective finish.
• Detail Brush – for clean edge painting.

DIY Instructions

To replicate this art deco design:

1. Apply a neutral base color and cure.
2. Use striping tape to create geometric shapes and fill them with contrasting neutral tones.
3. Carefully remove the tape and cure.
4. Apply a top coat to seal and add shine to the artwork.

Winter Metallics: Frosted Silver

This frosted silver manicure captures the essence of winter with its metallic finish and subtle sparkle. The matte top coat over the metallic base creates a unique frosted appearance, perfect for the chilly season. This look combines glamour with a touch of frost, making it a fabulous choice for holiday parties or winter gatherings.

Photo credit by: @elena.aesthetician

Consumables List

• Metallic Silver Polish – Sally Hansen Miracle Gel in “Game of Chromes.”
• Matte Top Coat – for the frosted effect.
• Shellac Base Coat – ensures a long-lasting application.
• UV/LED Lamp – essential for curing.

DIY Instructions

Creating the frosted silver look:

1. Apply a base coat and cure.
2. Paint two coats of metallic silver, curing each layer.
3. Finish with a matte top coat to achieve the frosted appearance and cure.

Lavender Dreams: Soft Pastel Elegance

This lavender manicure offers a dreamy pastel elegance, perfect for softening any fall or winter look. The subtle shimmer within the polish adds depth and dimension, enhancing the beauty of the gentle lavender hue. This style is suited for those who prefer a touch of femininity and grace in their manicure.

Photo credit by: @by.meeraki

Consumables List

• Lavender Shimmer Shellac Polish – CND Shellac in “Lavender Lace.”
• Shellac Base and Top Coat – for smooth application and lasting wear.
• UV/LED Lamp – for proper curing.

DIY Instructions

To achieve this lavender dream manicure:

1. Start with a base coat and cure.
2. Apply two coats of lavender shimmer polish, curing each coat.
3. Finish with a top coat for enhanced shine and protection.

As we wrap up our exploration of fall shellac nails for 2024, it’s evident that the versatility and creativity in nail art continue to evolve, offering something for everyone. From the understated elegance of soft beiges and sophisticated mattes to the playful exuberance of neon confetti and bold geometric patterns, these styles not only reflect the latest trends but also cater to individual preferences and lifestyles. Whether you’re aiming for a minimalist look suitable for the office or a dazzling design for seasonal festivities, these shellac nail ideas provide both inspiration and practical guidance for enhancing your autumn style. Embrace these trends to make your nails a focal point of your fall fashion statement.