The 7 Best Colors for Your Summer-to-Fall Pedicure Transition

The end of summer is always bittersweet. On the one hand, the time for lazy days spent poolside and weekend trips to the beach is coming to a close. On the other hand, fall and sweater weather are just around the corner. As the seasonal transition approaches, pedicure colors should be on your mind. After all, a fresh mani and pedi is the perfect way to usher in a new season and its fluctuating temperatures while the temps are still warm enough to rock sandals. Autumn often leans into earthy shades pulled from natural elements—rich browns, moss tones and golden leaf colors are among the many that come to mind first. However, this fall’s pedicure colors are taking a slightly different approach. Organic hues you know and love are still present, but there’s room for cool finishes and even bright poppy shades. If you’re short on inspiration, the list below is a good place to start. Ahead, three manicurists share the best pedicure colors to transition from summer into fall.

Featured experts

• Gina Edwards is a celebrity manicurist and KISS Nails brand ambassador
• Amy Ling Lin is the founder of Sundays nail salons
• Evelyn Lim is the chief educator at MiniLuxe’s Paintbox studio

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Dusty Rose

Pink hues and rose jelly polishes may have dominated summer, but as we move into fall, the founder of Sundays nail salons, Amy Ling Lin, says that earthy rose tones are more ideal. “Think of them as a more comforting option to the bold reds and pinks of summer,” she adds. They have the same captivating appeal but are less intense.

Two to try: Sundays No25 ($18), Olive & June LD ($9)

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Baby Blue

If you’re not ready to give up on bold colors just yet, a baby blue pedicure is the way to go this season. According to celebrity manicurist and KISS Nails brand ambassador Gina Edwards, the poppy shade is fitting for both summer and fall heading into winter. As the seasons shift, a temporary solution, like Kiss’ Electric Feel press-ons, ($9) may be more appropriate.

Two to try: Gucci Lucy Baby Blue ($35), Orly Ripple Effect ($10)

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Terracotta

“Muted earth tones such as terracotta are always trending for fall because they evoke a sense of natural warmth,” says Evelyn Lim the chief educator at MiniLuxe’s Paintbox studio. The shade also has lots of range, making it ideal for almost every complexion.

Two to try: Ella+Mila Sunset Escape ($11), Dazzle Dry Mojave Dreams ($22)

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Olive

Lim notes that olive tones have a similar autumnal feel. From muted moss to polishes with deep gray undertones, the hue is perfect for pedicures. Even more compelling is the fact that you can mix and match shades, creating a striking mani and pedi moment.

Two to try: OPI Suzi – The First Lady of Nails ($12), Static Nails Rob The Bank ($16)

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Lavender

You may not think lavender belongs on this list, but with a wide range of shades and unique tones, it’s anything but one note. “A creamy lavender is great for the transition from summer to fall, since it’s bright and has a softness that pairs well with the calmer, earthy tones of fall,” says Lin.

Two to try: Nailberry Serenity ($21), Chanel Immortelle ($33)

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Metallics

Chromes and metallics have been at the forefront of nail trends this summer, and they work just as well for fall. For the new season, Edwards says the vibe will shift into warmer metallics with notes of amber and caramel. The finish adds an edgy touch to the earth tones, creating a uniquely alluring pedicure.

Two to try: Moon Cat Dark Horse ($17), Halo Taco I’m Rover It ($15)

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Warm Tan

Instead of opting for a neutral or cool-toned nude, Lim suggests settling on a warm tan polish. Not only does it align with fall’s earthy color palette, but it has a classic look that pairs well with summer’s warm days and hazy nights. Pro tip: take your look to next level with contrasting matte and glossy elements.

Two to try: Cote Beauty Cappuccino ($18), Addiction Tokyo Espresso Kiss ($33)