Photo: Adobe Stock Save Story Save this story Save Story Save this story Sure, pedicures get more playtime over the summer , but that doesn’t mean your toes don’t deserve the same attention once temperatures drop. In fact, nail artists argue boot season is the best time to dip your toes into a fresh palette of colors. “You are most likely going to be wearing closed-toed shoes, so why not try something new?” says Katie Masters , a manicurist and founder of Nail Thoughts .
Plus, if a situation arises that requires a peep-toe, your pedicure will be ready to be front and center. “The great thing about a pedicure is that it’s almost like a tattoo,” says nail artist Tom Bachik, nail artist and Après Nail ambassador. You can keep it tucked under layers or show it off, chilly weather be damned.
We spoke to the experts, who stand 10 toes down on the best pedicure colors for fall. Read on for their recommendations.
Save to wishlist Save to wishlist Lights Lacquer
Save to wishlist Save to wishlist Londontown
Like your favorite pair of boyfriend jeans, a slate-blue polish can go with just about everything. “They act like a neutral on the toes, and I love how they tie into the denim we naturally wear more in fall,” says Leslie Ayala , nail artist and founder of Miami’s Nail Witch Studios. “They remind me of that colder, overcast fall palette without literally being gray.”
Mr. Darcy by Lights Lacquer mimics that indigo dark wash, which Ayala notes would play well with silver details and other cool-toned prints. Londontown Lakur in Secret to Happiness is a few shades lighter, but just as moody and cool.
Save to wishlist Save to wishlist China Glaze
Save to wishlist Save to wishlist Deborah Lippmann
Save to wishlist Save to wishlist Chanel
Sometimes, you’ve got to play the hits, and classic wine reds are the pedicure equivalent of that one song that always reminds you of the cooler months. “Deep cherries and merlots are perfect if you want something classic that’s just a bit moodier for fall,” says Andrea Forero , a Barcelona-based manicurist. “They’re rich and sophisticated shades that really pop against the skin without feeling too loud.” Bachik has noticed a rise in the popularity of red in 2026 and expects the color to continue strong through the fall and winter. “It’s just a sexy, confident, strong color,” he says.
China Glaze Moonlit Merlot is a classic deep burgundy. Prefer something richer? Try a Bordeaux, like Deborah Lippmann Single Ladies or Chanel Rouge Noir .
Save to wishlist Save to wishlist Tenoverten
Save to wishlist Save to wishlist Habit Cosmetics
Maybe we’re just craving a treat, but the rich, warm brown hues of the season evoke images of apple cider donuts, that perfect espresso shot, and every seasonal sweet in between. “From warm caramel and mocha to deep chocolate, brown can look surprisingly elevated on the toes,” says manicurist Beth Fink .
If you’re looking to manifest fall vibes early, nail artist Tak Okamura says caramel is the perfect in-between shade as we near the end of summer. “A sun-kissed brown-amber bridges summer and fall without needing to change as the weather turns,” he says. We love Cliff by TenOverTen for a decadent dulce de leche, but if you prefer something more decadent, reach for Brownie Points by Habit Cosmetics or Spiced Brown by DND , which is available in both lacquer and gel formats.
Save to wishlist Save to wishlist Manucurist
A shiny, patent leather pedicure evokes feelings of wearin…