Simple Fall Nails That Are Practical for Moms
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You’re a mom who really wants to rock some simple fall nails, but you also understand that cute long nails aren’t always practical for the day to day mom life. I feel you. While I love a fresh mani and trendy nails (especially during the holidays), I have to be realistic with my life and keep them simple. Now, don’t let that fool you, simple can still be gorgeous.
From finding the right nail length to choosing a cozy fall color palette, there are so many great ideas to try that can give your nails a seasonal update without requiring you to break the bank at the nail salon. Whether you’re into short nails for convenience or love the look of long, bold nails, here’s a guide to help you nail (pun intended!) your autumn vibes.
Getting a Manicure & Finding the Perfect Balance That Works for You
As a mom, your hands are always busy—whether it’s cleaning up spills, tying tiny shoelaces, or juggling a hot cup of coffee. If you have teenagers, you hands might be a bit freed up from the day to day chores, leaving you more room to explore some creative nail designs. Either way, we’re going to help you find the best style.
Nail Length for Moms: Short vs. Long
Short nails are often the go-to for moms who need a practical and durable look. It’s me go-to each and every time. They’re easy to maintain and can still showcase a variety of stylish fall nail designs, from subtle nude nails to cute fall patterns.
Long nails, on the other hand, are a fun way to express yourself, especially for special events or when you’re craving a bit of glam. If you’re leaning toward longer nails, consider coffin nails or almond shapes for an elegant fall manicure that still feels manageable.
Just be mindful if you have really young kids or even a baby that longer nails can sometimes get in the way of things like diaper changes and be harder to manage due to their length. I once had a mom friend who tore her nail off backward doing laundry after her littles ran into the laundry room jumping all over her, it was so horrible (and gross) to see, but it was a good reminder about how long nails and kids don’t always mix.
Finding the Right Nail Shape
Nail shape can change the entire vibe of your manicure. Square nails offer a clean, modern look that works well with minimalistic nail art and simple fall nail ideas, but with kiddos you might want to request a slightly rounded edge.
Coffin nails or stiletto nails are great for moms looking to make a bold statement, but if you prefer something more subtle, oval or almond shapes tend to strike the perfect balance between trendy and practical.
For the longest time, I was a square nail girly, but more recently I’ve been enjoying short-almond-shaped nails and I absolutely love them! They’re cute, trendy, and just give my hands a softer look that I’m really enjoying.
Fall Nail Colors to Try
Alright, now that you have your length and shape decided, we need to talk about the beautiful fall colors to help you rock some cute fall nails. That said, autumn is the perfect time to experiment with rich browns, deep reds, and warm tones. Chocolate brown, deep burgundy, and olive green are all great options that pair beautifully with light neutrals and earth tones.
Another gorgeous color scheme is a nude manicure with accents of metallic accents or white tips, while a pop of bright orange or burnt pumpkin orange can bring the warmth of the fall season to center stage.
For moms who love a neutral manicure, soft earthy tones or cozy neutrals like espresso brown and deep burgundies are timeless choices whether you opt for a solid color or add a design or pattern.
Fall Nail Patterns to Consider
Patterns are an easy way to dress up simple nails, and fall is full of endless ideas. Floral designs, animal prints, and leopard print are all cute fall nail options that can add personality without feeling too complicated.
A classic French manicure with a modern twist (think deep burgundy tips or forest green tips) can give your nails a seasonal upgrade while still being a simple design. Negative space manicures and minimalistic nail art are also fun and trendy ways to create fall manicures that don’t require too much upkeep.
For those looking for fun fall nail art ideas, try spooky season themes with Halloween nail designs or go for an unexpected shade like the trending black cherry cola.
20+ Simple Fall Nails Inspiration Photos
Autumn Sunset by @thatglosssauce
If you’re looking for a way to incorporate fall without the traditional orange and earthy tones, this beautiful ombre sunset look is for you!
Basic White Tip French Mani
Calling all my basic moms, these nails are short and practical for even the busiest of all moms. (image from Canva Pro)
Custom Halloween Nails by @expressonbytay
If you love Halloween and like your claws to match the occasion, but don’t want to spend hours in the salon — you need to order one of these custom press-on sets from Tay asap!
Lavender Fall Nails
These sweater weather nails aren’t neutral, but they’re all things fall! (image from Canva Pro)
Plaid & Gold Nails by @dazzlenailsbymel
Speaking of sweater weather, this nail design is bound to flawlessly pair with any sweater you wear this fall!
BOO Ghost Nails
Feeling spooky? Give your simple nails a little personality with this ghostly design. (image from Canva Pro)
Fall Nails in Green
When new think of fall, most think of oranges, reds, and yellows, but who said green can’t have a little fun too? (image from Canva Pro)
Creamy Polka Dots by @manis.by.morg
If you love simple nails, this is a design you’ll want to save! Not only are they simple, but the colors scream all things fall!
Deep Fall & Flower Nails by @monika__nails
This color is one of my favorites on this list, it’s a beautiful deep reddish/purple along with incorporated a neutral and floral design.
Fall Floral Mani by @little.miss.at.home.mani
This gorgeous mauve/brown set complimented with the floral accent nails is perfect for fall! Whether you’re staying in or enjoying a night out of celebrations, it’s perfect for all!
Blue Abstract Nails by @hannah_p_nails
This abstract nail design is just gorgeous. I love the blue and gold combination, perfect for any of you mamas who love that type of abstract design!
Natural Shimmer Nails
Let your natural nails shimmer and sparkle with this lovely nail design. With minimal maintenance and such a natural look, they’ll pair perfect with everything in your closet this fall. (image from Canva Pro)
Brown, White and Pink Fall Nails by @katiebelles_nails
Who knew browns, white, and pinks would all look so beautiful together in such different patterns! If variety is your jam, this nail design is a Fall-Must!
Natural Halloween Nails by @polishbychloe
These halloween nails are perfect for the moms wanting to accent their natural nails for Halloween. From little ghosts, cats, and the adorable mummy — this design (including the length and shape) is perfect to spookify your nails!
Cute Pink Ghosts by @thatglosssauce
I am obsessed with these cute pink ghost nails! I’m not one to opt for bright colors, but I’d make an exception for these any day, would you?
Retro Fall Nails by @naildesignbykayla
From the colors to the design, these retro looking fall nails are so cute and perfect for both basic and fashionable moms!
Minimalist Spider Nails by @myminimalistmani
I love the simplicity of these nails, can you imagine how they’d look without the spider design? Whether you want Halloween art or prefer them to be plain, this natural color is a must for fall!
Shimmery Pumpkin Nails by @hannah_p_nails
Look at the shimmer on these nails? I don’t care how basic you are, that shimmer is hard to resist and is a gorgeous fall nail design!
Leaves Falling Nails
If you enjoy having a hint of color on your simple mani, these blue leaves falling nail design might be perfect for you! (image from Canva Pro)
Fall Solid Nails by @myminimalistmani
This gorgeous brown-ish color is everything fall! Plus, it’s part of an at-home gel kit you can do yourself at home! Check out the original post by @myminimalistmani on IG to learn more.
Charcoal Fall Spooky Nails by @polishbychloe
I love the way Chloe incorporated that beautiful charcoal color into these fall nails. They’re practical, but so creative and cute, hence why they’re on this list!
Glittery Fall Nails
Wrapping up these simple and practical nail designs for fall is this multi-orange colored design with glitter tips. They’re simple, cute, and have a pop of excitement thanks to the sparkles. (image from Canva Pro)
While all of the nails above are absolutely gorgeous, I want to hold space for the moms who simply don’t have the time or finances to get their nails done professionally at the salon. SO, I rounded up a few of my favorite DIY Mani Kits.
Affordable DIY Manicure Kits
These are kits I’ve used on my own nails at home, usually after I get my kids into bed, in order to rock some cute, freshly painted nails without having to head into the salon. They’re also a great alternative for anyone who does go to the salon and just needs a break here and there.
- Olive & June Quick Dry Nail Polish Set
- Ohora Gel Nail Art Starter Set
- Le Mini Macaron Mini Gel Nail Polish Kit
From spooky season nails to cozy neutrals, there are endless ways to get creative with your seasonal nails while keeping them functional for everyday tasks. Whether you’re heading to a nail salon or doing a DIY manicure at home, fall is the perfect time to refresh your look with simple patterns and warm colors that reflect the beauty of the autumn season.
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