I'm A Beauty Editor—These Are the 5 Nail Print Trends That Actually Look Chic

When it comes to autumn nail art trends, there are so many different designs to choose from that it almost seems impossible to know what to go for. As the junior beauty editor at Who What Wear UK, I am constantly on the lookout for the latest manicures so that I can help advise you on what designs to ask for on your next trip to the salon, and lately it’s all about nail prints.

Yes that’s right, prints are having a major revival. Although our wardrobes may be looking as understated as ever thanks to the ‘quiet luxurytrend, beautifully bold nail prints are coming back this autumn, and I can’t say I’m mad about it. Don’t be fooled though, as some of these prints are seriously chic, and can easily elevate a more minimal outfit. 

Don’t believe me? From tortoiseshell print nails to intricate, paired-back floral designs, there are plenty of luxe options for all you quiet luxury lovers out there, and I’ve rounded up my top five picks for you below. I’ve been seeing these exact prints everywhere at the moment, and I predict that they are only going to grow in popularity over the next few months. So, without further ado, keep on scrolling to see how you can incorporate the print nail art trend into your everyday looks this autumn…

First up is tortoiseshell nails. In my opinion, this print is totally timeless, having been in style for as long as I can remember. Although I’m used to incorporating it into my wardrobe through items such as jewellery and sunglasses, this autumn, I’m definitely going to be giving a tortoiseshell manicure a go.

I love the fact that this print will complement any neutral outfit thanks to the warm brown and black shades.

If you don’t fancy going all out with this design, why not opt for a more minimal, French tip print instead?

For a quick and easy way to recreate this trend, try these false nails from Nails Inc.

If someone told me I’d be considering heart print nails a few years ago, I wouldn’t have believed them. When I think of this design, I think of loud pink and red colours, but there are actually lots of more understated ways to do this nail art trend. Take these heart-shaped French tips for example. What’s not to love?

If you want to keep things more monochrome, then this white heart nail design is the one for you.

I love super small nail art, and I’ve fallen head over heels for these mini red hearts.

These nails look super similar to the design above, and they even come with a gel-like finish.

Although I tend to avoid animal print clothing, there is no denying that these animal print nails are super chic. Much like tortoiseshell nails, these designs are easy to wear as they often involve more neutral colours, and this zebra print is next on my list.

I mean, have you ever seen such a cool manicure? This will be living rent-free in my head for a very long time.

Another incredible zebra design to try this autumn.

This top coat is so clever. All you have to do is apply it over a nude nail polish and watch it transform into a leopard effect.

I know what you’re thinking, aren’t flowers more suited to spring and summer? I don’t know about you, but I’m a big fan of autumn florals, and these minimal flower print designs are only making me love the trend even more.

To keep things chic, opt for a more neutral base and incorporate pops of colour through different types of flowers.

Or, if you fancy no colour at all, you can always opt for a more monochrome design.

This nail art set from Boots will make recreating floral designs so much easier.

Yep, I’m sure you’ve all heard of ‘strawberry girl summer’, and our obsession with fruit isn’t going away anytime soon. In fact, this tomato design is one of the chicest manicure I’ve seen.

We all know yellow is set to be big this autumn, so why not opt for this pretty lemon nail art?

If you don’t want nail art on every single nail, not to fear, as there are plenty of designs out there that combine block colours, too.

Price shown is members’ price. To keep your fruity nail art in place, apply a clear top coat like this one from Beauty Pie.

Next Up: I’m Calling It: This Shade of Green Is Autumn’s Most-Elevated Nail Trend