Fall is arguably the most exciting time of year for beauty lovers. While summer is filled with fleeting trends and bright colors, fall clings to classic elements that never fail. A burgundy red lip or chocolate brown strands are just a few that are always in vogue come September. Manicure colors also take inspiration from natural hues, like this season’s trending terracotta nail polish shade.
To be fair, pumpkin colors are synonymous with autumn for obvious reasons. However, terracotta brings fresh energy and a modern approach to fall manicures. It blends seasonal tones—think burnt orange, leathery browns and rich sienna—and offers something for everyone. Take the traditional clay-toned shade that’s warm and earthy. Or how about a lighter hue with peach undertones and a creamy finish? Regardless of your manicure preferences, you’ll be hard-pressed to not find a terracotta nail polish shade that speaks to you. We’ve rounded up the best terracotta nail polishes to help inspire your new fall manicure.
Terracotta nail polish shades to try this fall
1 / 8
The great thing about terracotta is that it has lots of range. This luxe shade by Chanel embraces the brick tones for a rosy variation of the hue. If you're devoted to red nails year-round, try swapping in this bottle for fall.
BUY NOW - $32
3 / 8
Nude nails are a staple manicure look for any season. But come autumn, it's nice to have an option that isn't too washed out. Enter this tawny shade from Lights Lacquer. It has cognac and peachy tones for a blend as smooth as its finish.
BUY NOW - $11
4 / 8
Burnt orange is often used to describe terracotta, and this nail color speaks to that tenfold. One coat saturates your nails in a sun-baked orange hue with hints of brick red. In short, it's the perfect shade to completely nail your terracotta manicure at home.
BUY NOW - $14
5 / 8
You may not consider this polish to be terracotta-colored, but the reality is that clay comes in many tones. With this lacquer, you can lean into the orange, almost-turmeric-like shades of the spectrum for a unique fall manicure.
BUY ON LONDONTOWN - $16
BUY ON BEYOND POLISH - $16
6 / 8
This soft peach shade is a great way to transition your nails into the next season. It's not too deep and has a creamy rose color that feels spot on for summer and can easily roll into fall.
BUY ON J.HANNAH - $22
BUY ON AMAZON - $22
7 / 8
Year after year, OPI's Lincoln Park After Dark remains a top choice for fall manicures. While we're not saying you should retire your bottle, we are suggesting swapping in this terracotta shade for a bit. Instead of being moody and dark, it feels warm and still delivers a glossy pop of color.
BUY ON BEYOND POLISH - $10
BUY ON OPI - $12
8 / 8
Terracotta is beloved for being muted, but it doesn't have to be boring. This shade has a hint of shimmer that makes the hue stand out in a unique way. Even better? The formula dries down fast and is long lasting.
BUY ON DAZZLE DRY - $22
BUY ON AMAZON - $22
