13 Nail Colors That Pair Well With a Hot Toddy
Because being basic is actually the best.
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With a new season comes new nail colors and ELLE editors are officially in fall mode. We're saying hello to colorful leaves, cozy clothes, and pumpkin spice lattes—and we need the manis to match. From reliable reds and burgundys to out-of-the-box jewel tones, we're here to help you pick your next fall shade. Ahead, 13 nail polishes our editors will be wearing these next couple of months.
"There are a lot of ways to describe this color (Gold? Mustard? Dandelion?) but the best word for this warm, luminescent yellow is simply candlelight." — Ariana Yaptangco, Social Media and Beauty Editor
“Gucci has done it again. They’ve created the ultimate red nail color. The best part, beyond the juicy, crisp crimson shade, is the wide brush applicator that makes it easy to paint my digits. Pairs best with a glass of red wine or chunky black knit sweater. In the words of our social and beauty editor, ‘Oh, she fancy.’” — Chloe Hall, Beauty Director
“This peacock polish from Orly’s fall collection is so bright, so saturated, that I would describe it as neon-jewel tone. (Can that be a thing? It is now.) ‘In Full Plume’ is a cream formula—aka opaque and glossy with no sparkle—and one coat is enough to evenly cover lacquer nails if you’re in a rush. I’ve also been really into monochromatic beauty recently, and this shade matches my favorite liner of the moment, Kulfi Beauty’s Kajal Eyeliner in Rain Check.” — Margaux Anbouba, Beauty Editor
“I generally never wear nail polish on my hands because I hate the look of chipped nails. I bought this at my local CVS purely because I knew I was attending a wedding in a week and wouldn’t have time to get a professional mani. Cue to a full week later, and there’s not a single chip. This color goes with pretty much everything in my wardrobe and has a slight pearl to it that makes me nails look extra shiny and healthy.” — Tatjana Freund, Beauty Commerce Writer
“Fall makes me think of Thanksgiving, and the only thing my mother loves to serve more at our Thanksgiving table than turkey and green bean casserole is a good glass of red wine. This berry-red nail color from OPI instantly reminds me of a delicious Cabernet, and it’s a beautifully vibrant hue for day or night wear.” — Lauren Puckett, Associate Editor
"If you're a fan of the popular bordeauxs and burgundys that pop up this time of year, consider a deep navy. This color can provide a much-needed departure from your usual, without straying too far from the vampy, moody look. Mischo's version has great color payoff (and is Black owned!)" — Ariana Yaptangco, Social Media and Beauty Editor
Sally Hansen Advanced Hard as Nails
Sally Hansen Advanced Hard as Nails
"I famously don't wear colored polish on my fingernails because I wash my hands compulsively and can't stand the sight of chipping, so I'm a fan of Sally Hansen Advanced Hard As Nails during the fall and all seasons. It goes on clear, dries fast, and prevents breakage." — Claire Stern, Deputy Editor
“I’m a big fan of red lipstick, so having a nice red nail color feels fitting as the temperatures drop. I’ve long loved Essie’s nail colors and how smoothly the polishes go on and stay on. Top with Olive and June’s top coat and the color will last a week and beyond.” — Alyssa Bailey, News and Strategy Editor
"It’s PSL season and I take it VERY literally. This deep burnt orange from Smith & Cult—worn in the context of changing leaves, jack-o’-lanterns, and apple picking—needs no explanation." — Ariana Yaptangco, Social Media and Beauty Editor
"I don't paint my nails anything but black in the fall—sue me! But when I'm feeling a bit adventurous, I'll wear OPI's Envy the Adventure, which is less goth than black." — Alina Petrichyn, Motion Graphics Designer
"I saw Nicole Richie wearing it when I was 13 and it's been my fall nail color ever since." — Jessica Roy, Digital Director
"I do not like pumpkin spice season or the temperature that comes with it. As part of my anti-autumn campaign, I'll be sticking to the go-to happy color that I wear year-round—Pear Nova's pastel green Herticulture. The soft green shade reminds me of the crisp winds and warmth of May, a month reserved for cropped tops and billowy dresses. At least if I have to be relegated to hoodies and sweaters for the rest of the year, my Easter green nails will add some semblance of joy to my life." — Nerisha Penrose, Beauty Commerce Editor
"Among my regular brown, gray, and burgundy polishes, I’ve added this rosy fall pink. It’s neutral enough to go with any cozy outfit, but less basic than typical fall nail colors. Since I won’t be visiting the nail salon anytime soon, Olive & June’s manicure kit makes my at-home paint job look as professional as possible." — Ariana Yaptangco, Social Media and Beauty Editor
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