21+ Classy and Simple Short Fall Nails And Fall Nail Colors You Need To Try

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Are you looking for elegant and simple short fall nails and the best fall nail colors to try in 2024? I’ve put together the prettiest fall nail designs and colors that will have you living your “That Girl” dreams this fall!

simple short fall nails

Is it just me, or does the air suddenly smell like pumpkin spice lattes and feel like a cozy sweater hug?

Fall is here, and with it comes the urge to trade in our summery brights for those rich, beautiful autumn hues.

But listen up, fellow short nail lovers: you don’t have to miss out on the fall nail art fun!

This post is your personal pep talk and inspiration board rolled into one, featuring over 21+ simple and chic fall nail designs that are perfect for shorter nails.

We’ll be exploring gorgeous fall colors, from the classic deep tones to some unexpected pops of brightness, all with super cute nail art ideas.

But first things first: If you’re a DIY girlie, you’re in an era where you do your nails yourself, or simply on the hunt for a stunning fall nail color, here are some of the best fall nail colors to try this year.

The Best Fall Nail Colors For 2024

1. Jade Green

Fall nail colors - matcha nail color

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Craving a fresh shade that will put an exciting twist to the traditional autumnal palette? Try this jade green shade from Londontown for that “matcha latte nails” vibe.

This shade is especially perfect for pastel lovers and anyone who loves a good green nail color for fall.

2. Cozy Brown Vibes

Fall nail colors - neutral

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There’s no better time to paint your nails in brown shades than fall.

This nail lacquer from butter LONDON is the perfect mix between burgundy and brown, making it the perfect shade for cozy autumn days.

A nail color like this would be stunning on its own, but you can also pair it with other neutral shades or fall shades and do a fall skittle mani.

3. Burnt Orange

Fall nail colors - burnt orange

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When it comes to fall nail colors, burnt orange is THAT GIRL!

This sophisticated shade offers a richer alternative to bright orange, perfectly capturing the essence of a crisp fall day.

It flatters a variety of skin tones too and pairs effortlessly with cozy knits and rich jewel tones.

4. Mustard Yellow

Fall nail colors - mustard yellow

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Finding it hard to say goodbye to bright yellow summer shades? Then mustard yellow will be your BFF this fall.

Unlike a bright yellow, mustard offers a touch of sophistication that transitions flawlessly from summer to fall.

This specific nail lacquer from OPI in the shade Ochre to the moon, adds a playful pop of color that perfectly complements the warm tones of autumn.

Related Post: 50 Insanely Cute Fall Nail Ideas You Will Obsess Over

21+ Simple Short Fall Nails – Short Fall Nail Designs

1. Abstract Tips

short fall nail designs

Via: @by_hannahtaylor

Feel like a simple French tip mani is too plain for you? Then do a mani like this with accent nails. I love the idea of doing the dramatics on two accent nails and keeping the rest simple.

Also, this is a pretty color combo you can copy in fall: Navy blue with burnt orange and gold accents.

2. Tortoiseshell + Mustard Yellow

short fall nails

Via: @disseynails

Can we talk about how well the tortoiseshell design goes with mustard yellow? This is a great way to keep things more interesting without taking away from the chic factor.

Also, the mustard yellow shade used in this mani is OPI’s Ochre to the Moon, the one I recommended to you above in fall nail colors!

3. All The Fall Shades

short fall nails 2024

Via: @disseynails

Can’t choose between two stunning designs? Then do one design on one hand and the other design on another hand.

This stunning mani features a fall skittle design on one hand in beautiful fall shades, while the other hand has some cute fall florals in similar shades.

4. Fall Skittle Nails

short fall nails 2024 trends

Via: @lolo.nailedit

Here is how to use all your fav fall shades to create a gorgeous mani that’s totally you. The end result is going to be a simple yet outstanding mani that will have you feeling all the fall feels.

The good thing about these nails is that they are easy to achieve at home because they don’t require any designs.

5. Fall Mix and Match

trendy nails fall

Via: @han.polished

Burgundy nails, also known as red wine nails are always a must during fall and winter.

Do a mix and match design with this beautiful color featuring florals, a French tip, and an allover coat on the pinky nails.

For the girlies who LOVE intricate nail designs, pair the color with black and white and light pink to make your nails pop even more.

Do a checkered design and a negative space design in black and white for the most perfect and intricate fall nail design.

Related Post: 50 Drop-Dead Gorgeous Burgundy Nail Design Ideas You Will Obsess Over

6. Gold + Brown + White

fall nail designs

Via: @swaknails

One thing about gold, it always eats when paired with other fall colors. There are so many ways to add gold to your simple short fall nails, such as a reverse French tip, gold foil, swirls, etc.

You can also do a negative space gold design on accent nails like swaknails did on these nails. Fall florals with touches of gold? Yes, please!

7. Brown Mini Frenchies

fall nails ideas autumn

Via: @swaknails

For the girlies who love a simpler look for their nails, you can never go wrong with a classic French tip nail design. The design looks even cuter in a mini version when done on short nails.

You can go with brown like the nails above or paint the tips another one of your fall favorites.

Whatever color you choose to go with, the end result will be an understated mani that screams “clean girl aesthetic!”

Related Post: 32 Brown Nail Designs You Will Fall in Love With | Brown Nail Inspo

8. Accent Nail Design

fall nails designs autumn

Via: @learnahstarbuck_nailartist

These nails are super simple but oh so stunning! This is what happens when you find your perfect match fall hue. Even the simplest nails will have you looking like a million bucks.

Do an allover coat on four fingers on each hand, in your perfect match fall shade of course, then add a cute design perfect for fall such as fall florals or fall leaves, or even a dainty pumpkin on an accent nail.

9. Tortoiseshell + Mini French Tips

fall nails short

Via: @learnahstarbuck_nailartist

Embrace the fall vibes with a manicure that’s both classic and trendy!

Consider a tortoiseshell design for all your nails except two.

On those accent nails, rock a mini French tip for a touch of timeless elegance. This combination offers the warmth and richness of fall with a delicate, feminine touch.

I’m honestly obsessed with mini French tips on this nail shape. so. so. cute!

10. Fall Matcha Nails

fall nails oval

Via: @learnahstarbuck_nailartist

Are you a matcha girlie through and through? Why not match your simple short fall nails with your matcha drink?!

Get into the cozy season with a soft, muted green base coat that evokes the calming color of your favorite latte.

Take it a step further and add delicate white florals on your accent nails featuring a simple French tip in the same green shade.

This subtle yet stylish design will have you feeling perfectly put-together, whether you’re sipping on a warm matcha or enjoying the crisp autumn air.

11. Brown Shades + Gold

fall nails acrylic

Via: @by_hannahtaylor

This is exactly what I was describing when I said you can add gold swirls or a gold reverse French tip to your fall mani for a touch of glam. Love how the gold makes these nails pop even more. 

12. Cute Little Squirrel

short short nails

Via: @gisellanails

Channel the charm of autumn with a playful and unique nail design like this one!

Paint most of your nails in a range of fall browns and neutral shades, creating a fun and trendy “skittle mani” effect.

But the real star of the show is the accent nail. Here, have a talented nail artist create a darling little squirrel design.

This unexpected detail adds a touch of whimsy and perfectly captures the spirit of the season! Opt for a matte finish to give your nails a sophisticated touch.

13. Fall Swirls

fall short nails

Via: @nailsbynicole.__

Who doesn’t love a good swirl design on their nails? Especially if the swirls are in warm autumn shades that make you feel like snuggling in cozy sweaters while sipping something warm?

The subtle mix and match vibe of these nails doesn’t take away from their sophistication.

From the swirly tips, to the French tip, to painting brown on the thumbnail and a beige like neutral on the ring finger, everything matches perfectly.

14. Chrome Matcha Vibes

fall acrylic nails short

Via: @nailsbynicole.__

This is for the matcha lovers again, take your love for your the delicious green tea to your fingertips with a fall manicure that’s both modern and sophisticated.

But this time, choose a stunning chrome finish.

To keep things more fun, incorporate a French tip design on three of your nails and keep the remaining two nails completely coated in the same mesmerizing matcha chrome polish.

Related Post: 23 Pretty Burnt Orange Nail Ideas To Get This Fall

15. Fall Glazed Donut Nails

short almonds nails fall

Via: @nailsbynicole.__

This gradient design paired with the glazed nails trend? Staaap!

This is one of those nail designs that will eat on every nail shape, from the classic almond to the edgy stiletto.

The subtle color blend creates a lengthening effect, while the glazed finish adds a touch of ethereal shimmer that flatters any skin tone.

It’s a universally flattering and trendy combination that’s guaranteed to get compliments wherever you go.

16. Short Square Nails + Brown Swirls

short square acrylic nails fall

Via: @_leonanails

Short square nails are a chic and practical choice, perfect for showcasing a stunning fall-inspired swirl design like this one.

This mesmerizing design adds a touch of movement and intrigue to your fingertips.

The best part? Swirls are incredibly versatile and can be tailored to your taste. Opt for a more subtle, wispy effect or go bolder with defined, dramatic swirls

17. Brown Mix and Match Nails

short fall nails 2024 gel

Via: @sammismanis

Here is a fun fall mani for anyone who’s obsessed with mix and match nails. The brown designs on top of that beautiful neutral shade will have you looking at your nails every minute. From the smiley face, to the flowers and the checkered design, everything is literally perfect.

18. Abstract Swirls

short nail designs

Via: @agalorynowicz

Love a good abstract nail design? Then this mani is a must save for your next nail appointment. This stunning design features abstract swirls in burnt orange and black that create a negative space effect where brighter swirly lines are drawn.

To be honest abstract nails like these can be easily achieved at home for anyone who’s been doing their nails themselves.

The beauty of a design like this is that it doesn’t have to be perfect which makes it easier to achieve a stunning set at home.

19. Short Square Nails + Fall Shades

short nails ideas

Via: @agalorynowicz

Love the versatility of short square nails but want a touch of fall flair? Step into the cozy season with a classic skittle mani in a fall neutral palette!

This trendy design lets you play with a range of gorgeous, muted shades that perfectly complement the autumn aesthetic. Think creamy beiges, rich caramels, dusty mauves, and a touch of deep charcoal for a touch of drama.

20. Water Marble Nails

short nail inspo

Via: @melanated.mani

Craving a touch of fall magic on your fingertips? Opt for a captivating nail design that blends classic elegance with a touch of artistic flair.

Start with a warm, rich brown base coat on all your nails, evoking the earthiness of the season. For two accent nails, do a water marbling technique with a selection of fall-inspired neutrals.

Think delicate swirls of mauve, deep burgundy, or creamy beige dancing across the brown base.

21. Swirly Tortoiseshell

short nail ideas

Via: @nails.by.iz_

Tortie season is all about getting all the fun tortoiseshell designs alongside the prettiest fall hues. This nail design features swirly tortoiseshell designs with sprinkles of gold foil on one accent nail. Pair the designs with a beautiful pastel green shade perfect for the fall season.

22. Pastel Green + Silver

classy nails short

Via: @nails.by.iz_

Here is another pastel green mani perfect for the fall season. Combine your pastel green shade with the classic olive green shade.

Add swirly designs along the tips in a slanted manner, then add a swirly silver line for a touch of glam.

You can get this design on all of your nails or mix it with the classic French tip nail design to add modern flair on the classic.

This post was all about simple short fall nails and the best fall nail colors!

Read Also:

50 Insanely Cute Fall Nail Ideas You Will Obsess Over

55+ Fall Outfit Ideas That Will Turn Heads

23 Pretty Burnt Orange Nails Perfect For Fall

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