The Best Gel Nail Polish Shades for Your Fall Manicure

It might not seem like it now, but cooler days are ahead. And as the seasons start to change, your manicure is going to be begging for an update. Thankfully, we’ve scoured the best gel nail polish brands for their most iconic and versatile autumn shades, finding the perfect fall colors for your seasonal manicure refresh. Whether you want a baked terracotta that stands out against dark wash jeans, or a red that delivers on the moody autumn moment, we have you covered with these gorgeous gel polish colors for fall.

What Nail Polish Shades Work Best for Autumn?

Editorial nail artist, Erica De Los Santos, explains that iconic fall shades have a unifying theme of being warm and creamy.

“Recent launches for fall, like Mia Secret’s new Gelux Coffee Collection, capture the cozy, seasonal vibe with rich tones that I think will be extremely popular this year,” De Los Santos says. “Each shade feels like a comforting fall drink, perfect for chic, monochrome nails or playful mix-and-match designs. Shades to try include warm orange with spicy undertones, muted sage green with milky finishes, pale creamy neutrals, warm reddish-browns with hints of spice and deep, rich coffee hues.”

At the same time, though, fall doesn’t mean you have to go for muted shades only. “On the other hand, you have the 2025 Gelish Fall Collection, which offers the perfect mix of bold, cozy and glam,” notes De Los Santos. “I’m especially excited to see colors like a rich plum that’s dramatic yet wearable, soft, shimmery lilac with an ethereal vibe and sleek midnight navy, ideal for moody fall looks.”

Our Favorite Gel Polish Shades for Fall

1 / 14

This neutral is a warm cream in a high-pigment polish that’s elevated and crisp. The shade of a French vanilla coffee, the balance between warm undertones and earthy notes makes this a stellar fall choice.

2 / 14

A subtle and warm champagne that’s perfect for the introduction to cooler months, this shade has a delicate shimmer that’s understated and elegant.

3 / 14

A brushed, antique gold shade that’s light-catching without being overpowering, It’s Getting Golder is an excellent transition color from summer to fall, bringing that brightness into the new season.

CND Shellac in It's Getting Golder ($17)

4 / 14

Yellow doesn’t have to be retired in the fall, and this extra-warm shade from OPI’s new At Home Gel Nail Polish line delivers the right amount of changing leaves-energy for autumn.

OPI At Home Gel Nail Polish in Cheeky Bee-havior ($16)

5 / 14

Burnt orange and terracotta remain fall nail color staples, but this year we’re predicting a rise in creamier, subtle shades that tread the line between neutral browns and bolder pumpkin tones.

Aprés Gel Couleur in Autumn Apricot ($19)

6 / 14

This neutral rose comes has just the right amount of earthy undertone to stand out in autumn, letting you stick with your tried-and-true pink nails while still being seasonal.

Londontown Gel Color in Toffe Tart ($17)

7 / 14

A barely-there nude, this shade is a must-have for anyone craving a your-nails-but-better look that isn’t too bright or spring-coded.

8 / 14

This dusky rose is a warm and cozy take on pink that will have you craving cooler days. The almost brown tones make this look ultra wearable and a match for your fall wardrobe.

9 / 14

This red is nearly maroonand feels rich and luxurious while still providing edge. This deep shade is ideal for a cozy coffeehouse feeling.

10 / 14

This spiced cinnamon shade comes with a side of shimmer, delivering a sultry and on-trend look for the season. Perfect as a bold neutral, this color shines against fall denim!

Londontown Gel Polish in Posh Forever ($17)

11 / 14

Slightly bolder and more rouge, this tone captures the spark and energy of a red nail while feeling upscale. Plus, it’s a perfect match for your autumn color story.

OPI At Home Gel Polish in Como Se Dice Gel-ous? ($16)

12 / 14

This warm brown is a comfy and polished tone that would go perfectly with a camel coat or stylish trench. Whether you’re looking for a nail art bestie or a single color stand-out, this shade is a great pick.

Le Mini Macaron Gel Polish in Latte ($13)

13 / 14

In autumn, more earthy greens are going to be your go-to, and this shade from Nailboo is a great example. The olive undertones help solidify this color as a fall favorite.

Nailboo Forever Glaze Gel Polish Jade Parade ($13)

14 / 14

On the other hand, this green has subtly smoky undertones that help create a feeling of warmth, while the deep shade helps keeps this color feeling autumnal.