20 Gel Fall Nail Ideas for 2024: Trendy Colors and Designs from Gelish, OPI, and DND
As the leaves turn and the air cools, it’s the perfect time to refresh your nail game with the rich and cozy hues of fall. In 2024, gel nail polishes offer endless possibilities for creating chic and durable manicures that transition seamlessly from everyday wear to special occasions. Whether you’re drawn to soft nude tones or bold, dark shades, we’ve curated 20 stunning gel nail designs that will suit both short and long nails.
Vibrant Fall Gel Nail Colors
This stunning gel manicure features a bold and lively orange hue that immediately draws attention. The vibrant shade is perfect for fall, evoking the warm tones of autumn leaves. The square nail shape adds a modern edge to the design, making it ideal for those who love to make a statement with their nails. The accent nail, transitioning from orange to a soft green, adds an unexpected twist, showcasing a smooth gradient that’s both playful and sophisticated.
Consumables:
- Gel Polish: DND Gel Nail Polish in “Sunset Orange”
- Gel Polish: Gelish in “Mint Whisper”
- Top Coat: OPI Gel Top Coat
- Base Coat: Gelish Foundation Base Gel
- UV/LED Lamp: Gelish 18G Professional Lamp
DIY Instructions:
- Start with a clean, prepped nail and apply the Gelish Foundation Base Gel. Cure under a UV/LED lamp for 30 seconds.
- Apply two coats of DND Gel Nail Polish in “Sunset Orange” to all nails except the ring finger. Cure after each coat.
- For the ring finger, create a gradient effect by applying “Sunset Orange” at the base and “Mint Whisper” at the tip. Use a sponge to blend the colors. Cure for 60 seconds.
- Seal the design with OPI Gel Top Coat and cure for a final 60 seconds.
- Wipe off the sticky layer with a cleanser to reveal a glossy finish.
Fiery Red Gel Nails with Exotic Snake Skin Accent
This fiery red gel manicure exudes confidence and boldness, perfect for those looking to make a strong statement this fall. The highlight of this design is the snake skin accent nail, adding a touch of exotic elegance and texture to the otherwise solid red manicure. The square shape further enhances the boldness of the look, making it a perfect match for evening events or a chic autumn outfit.
Consumables:
- Gel Polish: OPI Gel in “Big Apple Red”
- Nail Foil: Snake Skin Pattern Nail Foil
- Top Coat: Gelish Top It Off
- Base Coat: DND Base Gel
- UV/LED Lamp: OPI Dual Cure Lamp
DIY Instructions:
- Prep the nails by filing and shaping them into a square form. Apply DND Base Gel and cure under the UV/LED lamp for 30 seconds.
- Apply two coats of OPI Gel in “Big Apple Red” to all nails, curing between each coat.
- On the ring finger, press the snake skin pattern nail foil over a tacky layer of gel polish. Smooth out the foil to ensure even transfer, then gently peel it off.
- Apply Gelish Top It Off top coat to seal the design and cure for 60 seconds.
- Cleanse the nails to remove any residue and reveal a high-shine finish.
Chic Olive Green Gel Nails with Speckled Accent
Embrace the earthy tones of fall with this olive green gel polish that is both understated and chic. The almond shape of the nails adds a touch of elegance, while the accent nail with black speckles over a white base offers a minimalist yet artistic flair. This design is perfect for those who prefer subtlety with a hint of creativity.
Consumables:
- Gel Polish: Gelish in “Olive You”
- Gel Polish: DND in “Arctic White”
- Nail Art Pen: Black Speckle Pen
- Top Coat: OPI Gel Color Top Coat
- Base Coat: Gelish Foundation Base Gel
- UV/LED Lamp: DND Gel Lamp
DIY Instructions:
- Shape the nails into an almond form, then apply Gelish Foundation Base Gel and cure under the UV/LED lamp.
- Apply two coats of Gelish in “Olive You” to all nails except the ring finger. Cure between each coat.
- For the ring finger, apply DND in “Arctic White” and cure. Use a black speckle pen to create random speckles across the nail.
- Seal the design with OPI Gel Color Top Coat and cure for a final 60 seconds.
- Wipe off the tacky layer with a cleanser for a smooth, glossy finish.
Soft Pink Gel Nails with Delicate White Leaf Patterns
This soft pink gel manicure with delicate white leaf patterns is the epitome of feminine elegance. The design is subtle yet sophisticated, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more understated look. The square nail shape complements the gentle nature of the color and design, making it versatile for both everyday wear and special occasions.
Consumables:
- Gel Polish: DND Gel in “Blush Pink”
- Stamping Plate: White Leaf Design Stamping Plate
- Top Coat: Gelish No Cleanse Top Coat
- Base Coat: OPI Gel Base Coat
- UV/LED Lamp: Gelish 18G Lamp
DIY Instructions:
- Prepare the nails by filing into a square shape. Apply OPI Gel Base Coat and cure under the UV/LED lamp.
- Apply two coats of DND Gel in “Blush Pink,” curing between each coat.
- Use a white leaf design stamping plate to carefully apply the pattern to the ring finger. Ensure the design is centered and clean.
- Seal the manicure with Gelish No Cleanse Top Coat and cure for 60 seconds.
- Cleanse the nails to remove any sticky residue and enjoy a fresh, polished look.
Vibrant Autumn-Inspired Gel Nails with Gradient Accents
The blend of orange and green tones in this gel manicure is an artistic representation of the transition from summer to fall. The square nail shape adds a contemporary touch, making this design both trendy and timeless. The gradient effect on the accent nail is perfectly executed, adding depth and dimension to the overall look.
Consumables:
- Gel Polish: Gelish in “Autumn Sunrise”
- Gel Polish: OPI in “Fresh Fern”
- Top Coat: DND Gel Top Coat
- Base Coat: DND Base Gel
- UV/LED Lamp: OPI LED Light
DIY Instructions:
- File and shape the nails into a square shape. Start by applying DND Base Gel and curing under the UV/LED lamp.
- Apply two coats of Gelish in “Autumn Sunrise” to all nails, except for the ring finger. Cure between each coat.
- On the ring finger, create a gradient from “Autumn Sunrise” to OPI in “Fresh Fern” using a makeup sponge for blending. Cure after achieving the desired effect.
- Finish with DND Gel Top Coat and cure for 60 seconds.
- Remove the sticky residue with a cleanser for a flawless finish.
Stylish Beige Manicure with Leopard Print Accent
This chic manicure features a creamy beige base with a matte finish, ideal for those who prefer a minimalist yet elegant look this fall. The accent nail steals the spotlight with its striking leopard print, adding a touch of wildness to the overall sophisticated design.
Consumables:
-
- Gel polish: Matte beige gel polish like OPI GelColor in ‘Samoan Sand’.
- Accent design: Gelish’s ‘Black Shadow’ for the spots and Dnd’s ‘Spiced Orange’ for the inner details.
- Topcoat: Gelish Matte Top It Off to lock in the matte finish.
- DIY Instructions:
- Begin with a base coat to protect your nails.
- Apply two coats of the matte beige gel polish, curing each layer under a UV/LED lamp.
- For the accent nail, use a fine detail brush to create the leopard print using black and orange gel polishes.
- Seal the look with a matte topcoat, curing under the lamp after each step.
Elegant Pink Manicure with Black and Metallic Swirls
This stunning manicure combines a soft pink base with bold, swirling black and metallic accents on the middle nails. The elongated almond shape enhances the elegance of the design, making it a perfect choice for those who want to make a statement this fall.
Consumables:
-
- Gel polish: DND Gel Polish in ‘Blushing Bride’ for the soft pink base.
- Accent design: OPI GelColor in ‘Black Onyx’ and Gelish’s ‘All That Glitters’ for the metallic accents.
- Tools: A fine liner brush for detailed swirls and a sponge for creating a smooth gradient.
- DIY Instructions:
- Apply a base coat and cure under the lamp.
- Paint the nails with two coats of the pink gel polish, curing after each layer.
- Use the liner brush to create swirling patterns on the accent nails with black gel polish. Add metallic accents with a sponge for a gradient effect.
- Finish with a topcoat, curing after each step to secure the design.
Black and Gold Stiletto Manicure
Black and gold make for a classic combination, and this manicure takes it to the next level with sharp stiletto nails. The sleek black base is accented with delicate gold details, creating a luxurious and powerful look that’s perfect for fall.
Consumables:
-
- Gel polish: Gelish’s ‘Black Shadow’ for the base.
- Gold accents: OPI GelColor in ‘Gold Digger’ for the intricate details.
- Topcoat: A high-shine topcoat like DND’s ‘No Cleanse Top Gel’.
- DIY Instructions:
- Start with a base coat to protect the natural nails.
- Apply two coats of the black gel polish, curing between layers.
- Use a small detail brush to paint the gold accents onto each nail.
- Seal the design with a glossy topcoat, curing under the lamp for a flawless finish.
Matte Green and Peach Manicure with White Line Art
For those who enjoy a mix of subtlety and boldness, this manicure combines muted green and peach tones with modern white line detailing. The matte finish keeps the design sophisticated and understated, making it perfect for everyday wear during the fall season.
Consumables:
-
- Gel polish: OPI GelColor in ‘Don’t Bossa Nova Me Around’ for the peach and Gelish’s ‘A Mint Of Spring’ for the green.
- Detailing: DND Gel Polish in ‘White On’ for the fine lines.
- Matte Topcoat: Gelish Matte Top It Off for a smooth matte finish.
- DIY Instructions:
- Start with a base coat and cure.
- Apply two coats of peach on some nails and green on others, curing each layer under the lamp.
- Use a fine detail brush to create the white line art on the accent nails.
- Finish with a matte topcoat, curing after each application to lock in the design.
Soft Mauve Manicure with Deep Plum Tips and Gold Accents
This manicure exudes elegance with its soft mauve base and deep plum tips. The subtle gold embellishments add just the right amount of glam, making this design perfect for any fall occasion where you want to impress.
Consumables:
-
- Gel polish: OPI GelColor in ‘Taupe-less Beach’ for the base and Gelish’s ‘Plum Tuckered Out’ for the tips.
- Embellishments: OPI’s Gold Foil or a similar product for the accents.
- Topcoat: Use DND Gel Topcoat for a long-lasting shine.
- DIY Instructions:
- Start with a base coat and cure under the lamp.
- Apply the mauve gel polish and cure. Then, carefully paint the tips with the plum shade.
- Add gold foil accents at the base of the nails, pressing them gently into the tacky layer.
- Finish with a topcoat and cure for a glossy, durable finish.
These detailed descriptions should help highlight the unique qualities of each nail design, while ensuring the original file names are used for easy reference.
Pastel Abstract Manicure with Black Accent Lines
This artistic manicure combines soft pastel shades of pink and light blue with bold black accent lines that create a striking abstract design. The gentle color palette is perfect for fall, offering a fresh and modern look that still feels seasonally appropriate.
Consumables:
-
- Gel polish: OPI GelColor in ‘Mod About You’ for the pink and Gelish’s ‘Am I Making You Gelish?’ for the blue.
- Accent design: Use DND Gel Polish in ‘Black Onyx’ for the black lines.
- Topcoat: Finish with DND’s ‘No Cleanse Top Gel’ for a glossy finish.
- DIY Instructions:
- Apply a base coat and cure under the lamp.
- Paint alternating nails with pink and blue gel polish, curing each layer.
- Use a thin detail brush to create the black abstract lines, following the natural curve of the nails.
- Seal the design with a topcoat and cure for a high-shine finish.
Chic Short Nails with Earthy Tones and Artistic Accent
This sophisticated manicure features a rich, earthy taupe color on short nails, paired with a unique artistic accent nail. The combination of neutral tones and a splash of color makes this design versatile and perfect for fall.
Consumables:
-
- Gel polish: OPI GelColor in ‘Taupe-less Beach’ for the main color.
- Accent design: Gelish’s ‘A Mint Of Spring’, DND Gel Polish in ‘White On’, and a touch of glitter for the abstract art on the accent nail.
- Topcoat: DND Gel Topcoat for a lasting shine.
- DIY Instructions:
- Start with a base coat and cure.
- Apply two coats of the taupe gel polish on all nails except the accent nail, curing each layer.
- For the accent nail, use a detail brush to create the abstract design with mint, white, and glitter polishes.
- Finish with a topcoat and cure to seal the look.
Elegant Neutral Manicure with Subtle Gold Detailing
This elegant manicure showcases a neutral, soft white base with delicate gold detailing that adds a touch of luxury. The almond-shaped nails and minimalistic design make this a perfect choice for those who appreciate understated elegance.
Consumables:
-
- Gel polish: OPI GelColor in ‘Alpine Snow’ for the base.
- Detailing: OPI GelColor in ‘Gold Digger’ for the gold accents.
- Topcoat: Gelish Matte Top It Off for a smooth matte finish.
- DIY Instructions:
- Apply a base coat and cure.
- Paint the nails with two coats of the soft white gel polish, curing each layer.
- Use a fine brush to apply the gold detailing along the edges of the nails.
- Seal with a matte topcoat and cure to lock in the design.
Delicate Floral Nail Art on a Matte White Base
This manicure features a clean, matte white base adorned with delicate floral designs. The tiny blue flowers and green leaves bring a touch of nature to your nails, creating a soft and feminine look that’s ideal for fall.
Consumables:
-
- Gel polish: OPI GelColor in ‘Alpine Snow’ for the base.
- Floral design: Use DND Gel Polish in ‘Forget Me Not’ for the flowers and Gelish’s ‘Green Goddess’ for the leaves.
- Matte Topcoat: Gelish Matte Top It Off for the final matte effect.
- DIY Instructions:
- Start with a base coat and cure under the lamp.
- Apply two coats of the matte white gel polish, curing each layer.
- Use a fine detail brush to paint the floral design on the accent nails, curing each color individually.
- Finish with a matte topcoat to complete the look.
Simple Black Speckled Design on a Sheer Pink Base
This minimalistic manicure pairs a sheer pink base with black speckled details, creating a modern and understated design. The speckled pattern adds a subtle texture, making this an ideal choice for those who prefer a simple yet stylish look.
Consumables:
-
- Gel polish: OPI GelColor in ‘Bubble Bath’ for the sheer pink base.
- Speckled design: Use DND Gel Polish in ‘Black Onyx’ for the speckles.
- Topcoat: DND’s ‘No Cleanse Top Gel’ for a glossy finish.
- DIY Instructions:
- Apply a base coat and cure.
- Paint the nails with two coats of the sheer pink gel polish, curing each layer.
- Use a dotting tool or a small brush to apply the black speckles randomly on the nails.
- Seal the design with a topcoat and cure for a high-shine finish.
Matte Navy Manicure with Metallic Wheat Accent
This striking manicure features a deep, matte navy base adorned with a delicate metallic wheat design on the accent nail. The combination of the dark, moody color with the subtle shimmer of the metallic detail creates a sophisticated and timeless look.
Consumables:
-
- Gel polish: OPI GelColor in ‘Russian Navy’ for the base.
- Accent design: DND Gel Polish in ‘Champagne Toast’ for the wheat pattern.
- Topcoat: Gelish Matte Top It Off for the matte finish.
- DIY Instructions:
- Start with a base coat and cure under a UV/LED lamp.
- Apply two coats of the matte navy gel polish, curing each layer.
- Use a fine detail brush to paint the wheat design with the metallic polish on the accent nail.
- Seal the design with a matte topcoat and cure to finish.
Minimalist Nude Nails with Gold Stripe Accents
This minimalist manicure features a nude base with sleek, vertical gold stripes, perfect for those who appreciate subtle elegance. The clean lines and simple design make it versatile enough for both everyday wear and special occasions.
Consumables:
-
- Gel polish: OPI GelColor in ‘Samoan Sand’ for the nude base.
- Accent design: Gold striping tape or DND Gel Polish in ‘Gold Digger’ for the stripes.
- Topcoat: DND’s ‘No Cleanse Top Gel’ for a glossy finish.
- DIY Instructions:
- Apply a base coat and cure.
- Paint the nails with two coats of the nude gel polish, curing each layer.
- Apply gold striping tape or use a fine brush to paint the gold stripes on each nail.
- Seal with a topcoat and cure to secure the design.
Vibrant Red Nails with Artistic Accent Design
This vibrant manicure showcases a bold red color on most nails, with a stunning, artistic accent design on the ring finger. The abstract pattern incorporates multiple colors, adding a creative twist to the classic red manicure.
Consumables:
-
- Gel polish: OPI GelColor in ‘Big Apple Red’ for the red base.
- Accent design: Use DND Gel Polish in ‘Sunshine Yellow’, OPI GelColor in ‘Alpine Snow’, and Gelish’s ‘Black Shadow’ for the abstract pattern.
- Topcoat: DND’s ‘No Cleanse Top Gel’ for a high-gloss finish.
- DIY Instructions:
- Start with a base coat and cure.
- Apply two coats of the red gel polish, curing after each layer.
- Use a fine detail brush to create the abstract design on the accent nail with the chosen colors.
- Seal the look with a glossy topcoat and cure to finish.
Playful Short Nails with Geometric and Abstract Art
This playful manicure features a nude base with a mix of geometric and abstract art on each nail. The combination of different shapes and colors creates a unique and modern design that stands out while still being wearable.
Consumables:
-
- Gel polish: OPI GelColor in ‘Bubble Bath’ for the nude base.
- Accent design: Use Gelish’s ‘Am I Making You Gelish?’ for the green, DND Gel Polish in ‘Coral Craze’ for the coral, and OPI GelColor in ‘Black Onyx’ for the black details.
- Topcoat: DND Gel Topcoat for a lasting shine.
- DIY Instructions:
- Apply a base coat and cure.
- Paint the nails with two coats of the nude gel polish, curing each layer.
- Use a fine detail brush to create the geometric and abstract designs with the chosen colors.
- Seal the design with a topcoat and cure for a glossy finish.
Matte Black Manicure with Glossy Accent Nail
This bold manicure combines a matte black base with a glossy accent nail that features a modern, black and white swirl design. The contrast between the matte and glossy finishes adds depth and interest to the overall look, making it perfect for those who love edgy designs.
Consumables:
-
- Gel polish: OPI GelColor in ‘Black Onyx’ for the matte base.
- Accent design: Use OPI GelColor in ‘Alpine Snow’ and Black Onyx for the swirl on the accent nail.
- Topcoat: Gelish Matte Top It Off for the matte finish and DND Gel Topcoat for the glossy accent.
- DIY Instructions:
- Start with a base coat and cure.
- Apply two coats of the black gel polish, curing after each layer.
- For the accent nail, use a fine brush to create the black and white swirl design, curing each step.
- Finish the black nails with a matte topcoat, and the accent nail with a glossy topcoat, curing both to complete the look.
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