Every November always creeps up on you, does it? One day it will be pumpkin spice lattes and the next day it will be wool coats and frosty mornings. And, similarly to our wardrobes, our nails could use that annual re-shape. But what will that be like in 2025? It is rich jewel shades, dimmed (light) november nails, or perhaps a smooth november nails one colour feel? The colors that I am loving this week, how to make them at home, and why each of them works so well with the mood in November I am going to take you through all of these shades in this article. Let’s dive in.
Metallic Warmth
And something about a high-polished metallic that shouts out homey-chic. This reflective auburn chrome is a new interpretation of the November nails colour blending the comfort of the fall with a futuristic touch. This makes it even more elegant because of its elongated almond form, which is reflected in every gesture. It is kind of like polishing your nails with copper silk.
In order to do this, I usually look at gel polishes that have a mirror pigment. The Chrome Effects brand by OPI or the powders of Born Pretty can be used to turn a regular burgundy base into this three-dimensional polish. It is all about the layering: a solid coat on and then a chrome rub-in powder and then a glossy top coat.
It is recently that celebrity nail artist Mei Kawajiri declared in Allure that, whether in some warm hue, metallics are no longer a holiday thing alone. I couldn’t agree more. In it, I look good and not too dressy, as it does with a pressed nail–like having gold hoops on and a warm knit.
Deep Wine Minimalism
November has always been a month where people wear rich burgundy nails, but in 2025 there is an added modernity to the nail colour as it is sported in a clean, rounded shape. It is dramatic but not too loud–as when you order a glass of cabernet at a candlelit bar. Endless confidence, and one shade.
In order to achieve this appearance, I use Essie in Bordeaux or Chanel in Rouge Noir. These shades provide that lacquered, nearly-black look that despite the light being red. Not a flake of glitter, not a streak of shimmer–solid colour nails november at their best.
To use, the trick is to be patient: Two thin layers, with each layer completely dry, then a high-shine finish coat. Editorial manicurist Jin Soon frequently stresses the fact that thin layers do not streak and have the most professional appearance. She is correct–I have discovered that it is too late to hurry and destroy the elegance.
It is my manicure that I always resort to when I do not want to overthink. It is dependable, strong, and matches all the denim dresses, as well as silk slip dresses.
Midnight Matte
November coloured nails do not need to have sparkle, sometimes they only need mood. Understated edge is defined as matte black. It says cool girl without attempting to, and that darkness is in harmony with longer days in November.
My basic routine is to apply a true black polish such as Orly “Liquid Vinyl” first and then to apply a matte top coat. The latter layer gives the gloss a velvety and fashionable look. Vogue Beauty says that matte nails polish cracks sooner, so it is always best to seal the sides to make them last longer.
The best part is that this type of style makes rings shine. The difference between the silver and the flat black base is so bold which is almost architectural. It is not a lot, still it does not melt away into the background- it catches the eye.
I will confess it the first time I have tried matte black I thought it could be too much. But nowadays it is my blank canvas appearance when I prefer my accessories and clothes to speak.
Soft French Revival
November nails light colours have a certain elegance to them, and a French tip, which is a soft tip, never really goes. In this case, the naked base is quite nude and the white border is fine, thus adding freshness to cold days. But it is an elegant silence of your fingernails.
It requires some practice to make this manicure at home. I normally apply base with Essies Ballet Slippers and a tip with OPI Funny bunny. Freehand lines may be a challenge, which is why there are tip guides or even silicone stampers, which aid in precision.
This is because of versatility which makes me keep returning to this. It goes well with anything, including an oversized wool blazer or weekend sleepwear. Tom Bachik is a notable manicurist who refers to French nails as the little black dress of manicure and he is not wrong. They never conflict and they never bring down.
This manicure is like wearing a white shirt in the crisp morning air, then a bulky knit–classic, plain and understated, and only the best way to wear it.
Muted Sage Calm
Green may not be the first colour that you will associate with nails colour november, but dull sage has turned out one of my favourites. It is loose and gritty, and has something of a bow to the wilting leaves outdoors. Such a colourful nail design in November does not scream of modernism.
And I tend to use the Olive and June WKF or Zoyas Sage to give me that dusty look. Its low-profile renders it easy to wear on a daily basis as opposed to a neon or grassy green. It is like a warm cashmere scarf in a soft color in the form of a nail.
It can be applied easily- two layers, a little cuticle oil, and you are good to go. However, to add an editorial touch, you can add a matte top layer to it that provides it with a suede texture. Nail artist Betina Goldstein has expressed sage appeal on celebrities, indicating that the duller greens add calmness to the colder seasons.
Personally, this color seems to be grounding to me. On busy November days I look down and see my hands and it serves as a kind of reminder to take it easy. Is it not what we need most just now of a year?
Olive Utility Chic
Olive green fingernails are the uniform of November 2025. They are down to earth but cool, a nails colour in November that will look great with quilted jackets and layers. It is not glittering, yet it has a presence, as a warm cup of matcha on a gloomy morning.
I grab a shade such as Essies Win Me Over or OPI Olive which is green. They provide an appropriate understated sound, and sit between sophisticated and casual cool. There is no glitter or extras needed here–just november nails one colour on in a confident way.
I find it easy to pair with the neutral colours of fall whenever I wear olive. And, truth to tell, that is what we want this time of the year. Something simple, multifunctional, but subtle and imposing.
Sunlit Sage
When drab greens are calming, then this pale sage is the kind of breath of crisp morning air. It is one of those nails light colours that have depth but make the whole appearance soft in November. Almost as though it were a sunshine through fall leaves.
I would be happy with Olive and Junes WKF or Deborah Lippmanns Green Light to the same effect. There are two thin coats, a top coat which is shiny and the polish appears to shine in natural light. It is a sort of solid colour nails november that looks raised; it does not strain too hard.
It is the manicure that I would have when I am going to a farmer market on a weekend in my flannel shirt and cup of coffee. It has something carefree about it–unsophisticated and stylish.
Forest Twist
Those who are in need of depth will find dark green nails the best november coloured nails. This forest colour is fat and brooding, yet the zebra stripe on the one finger makes it jocular. It is testament that even neon-free colourful november nails can be cool.
It is easy to recreate this appearance, with two coats of OPIs Stay off the Lawn! on the majority of the fingers, and to add to it, black and white stamping plate or nail art pen. This is what nail artist Sarah Bland said to Refinery29, saying that unexpected accents are the best way to give classic dark nails new life.
Personally, I am a huge fan of how a small design feature can transform the entire atmosphere. It makes a manicure otherwise serious a little cheuky–say a structured blazer and sneakers.
Champagne Sparkle
Fancy blush with a sprinkling of glitter? That sounds like the knock of holiday season at the door of November to me. This manicure is both striking with its elegance of november nails colours, and also with a hint of festive sparkle.
In the case of the base, I would select Essie or OPI, the Mademoiselle or the Bubble Bath. In case of the glitter, Orly Tiara or Zoya Cosmo classify that glamour. It is the art of restraint–a few glimpses at the ends or scattered drops to make it elegant.
When I make nails like these feel delicate I do not feel fragile, however. They are smooth, feminine and speak in soft tones, not in loud tones. It is what I would paint my nails with during a Thanksgiving party or a small-time party.
Mocha Neutral
Brown colors are finally receiving the recognition that they need. This mocha shade is low-profile, high-end and the definition of november nails in 2025. Imagine it is the nail version of an exquisitely custom-made camel coat–classic and stylish.
I have been obsessed with colors such as the Zoya Spencers or Essies Clothing optional. They provide that warm coffee-like finish, that is modern but grounded. It is an appearance that will fit in any capsule wardrobe.
This is the color I use when I am in need of versatility. It goes well to workdays or weekends and fits any outfit. Also, it is not childish.
Classic Crimson
Not many things have as much permanence as a slick, real red. This will be the last nails colour in november–loud enough to cheer up a grey day, yet so traditional that it will never seem out of place. It has that film aspect, like the lipstick of Marilyn Monroe, or the ideal holiday dress, and in the year 2025 it will still be one of the strongest declarations you can make with your nails.
To achieve this appearance, I would one of the staples such as OPI Big Apple Red or the Dior 999 Rouge. These are popular in the industry due to the perfect payoff of the pigment, and the finish is shinny with no plastic appearance. Only two coats of paint and a gel type top-coat will make you a salon quality even in the house.
Application issues: red polish is also a problem since errors can be readily seen. Manicurist Deborah Lippmann suggests that polish should be swipeed in 3 strokes (side, center, side) to achieve a smooth layer. Clean the cuticles with a fine brush which has been dipped in acetone to maintain the edges sharp.
Even to myself red nails will always make me sit up straighter. They are my immediate morale booster- putting on heels after a few weeks of sneakers. Whenever I put them on in November, I think I have injected some warmth into the cold weather.
Crimson with Gold Accents
When plain red is classy, a gold jewelry can be added to the combination and make it close to being royal. Another provocative november nails one colour is laden with tradition and glamour. It stands out even better when paired with hefty knits and warm coats.
To this effect, I prefer the Essie A-List or Chanel Pirate. Both are giving that saturated, ruby finish. Combined with warm-coloured accessories, the impression is nearly filmic. Here a gel-effect top coat is indispensable, as the high shine is also vital.
It is also a terrific reminder of the fact that polish is not a standalone entity–your clothes, your rings, the texture of your sleeve will make the image complete. Red mixed with gold has been featured on thousands of runways, in Gucci and Valentino, which highlights its classic advantage.
When I am wearing such kind of manicure, I feel invincible. It is not only nails–it is armour, grace, and a trifle of drama all in one.
Mulberry Mood
The toasty coloured nails in November that I think of are deep mulberry nails. They are neither purple nor entirely brown, but an in-between that is warm and even luscious. It is the color of mulled wine, cranberries and everything luxurious we weep over during late fall.
I would suggest OPI’s Lincoln Park After Dark or Zoya Margo to have a similar appearance. Both are a balance between the rich berry and the hot wine. A creamy finish is achieved with two coats, although a third gives the richness that is desired in most cases.
In doing this at home, it is important to be patient, dark tones show streaks so easily. Paint several thin layers and allow them to dry before proceeding. Nail pro, Julie Kandalec of Harper’s Bazaar, said that dark polish looks best when nails are neatened down. I have tried it, and she is dead right.
In my case, having mulberry nails on is like having a wool blanket around me. They are fancy yet cozy–just the thing on a slow afternoon in November when I need to be fashionable, without trying.
Two-Tone Elegance
This is where the fun about the November nails comes in. A deep burgundy and a neutral beige are a current stylish manner of experimenting with colourful November nails without going nuts. It is stylish, low-key, yet not boring.
I would apply Essie top less and bare foot to the nude and OPI Malaga wine to the burgundy. The simplicity of this appearance is its beauty, you do not need skills in nail art, two complementary polishes are enough. The rotation of the colors of the fingers forms a visual rhythm, nearly a controlled capsule wardrobe.
Such manicure is excellent when one does not want to have a single shade. It is also practical enough to be used at work but stylish enough to be worn out at night. Two-tone manicures have been one of these things that Vogue editors have stated as the simplest form of refreshing your nails and not requiring any extra effort, and I can understand the reason behind that.
Personally, I am fond of the way this brings balance. It is hard to tell, but each time I see the changing colors, it reminds me of an unspoken style upgrade.
Chocolate and Cream Accents
This design is perhaps my favourite in this lot. It is soft beige mixed with deep chocolate brown, with subtle golden lines on its edges- a sophisticated take on fall nail polish colours. It is advanced nail design yet one that can be worn on a daily basis.
In order to make it, begin with a pure nude polish such as OPI’s “Samoan Sand. Dress up some nails with rich chocolate in colors such as Essies partner in crime. Then outline with metallic gold with fine nail art brush or striping tape. Here one needs a steady hand, and what comes out is worth it.
Nail artist Betina Goldstein frequently features minimalist designs such as this one, and tends to highlight how less-obtrusive metallic details transform a basic manicure. This strategy demonstrates that it does not mean that nail art must be loud to be effective.
Whenever I have a manicure such as this, I receive limitless compliments. It is contemporary and traditional, fashionable, but not excessive. It is to me the best example of how solid colour nails november can be turned into something with a little more personality.
Wine Swirl Art
The designs that are the most striking in terms of wearing the colourful november nails this year are the designs that are covered with burgundy swirl designs. The dark wine shade and light milky beige make an effect of abstract art, which is stylish but comfortable to wear. These stream lines lead me to think about the nights of the warm cozy evenings, swan wrapped in a ribbed knit and a glass of merlot in hand.
To replicate this, I suggest OPI “Malaga Wine” to use as the bold base and Essie “Blanc” to use as the creamy contrast. Swirls could be created using a fine liner or a nail art pen, and there is no need to go for perfection here, it is the organic lines that make the style contemporary.
And in fact, abstract lines are often touted by celebrity manicurist Julie Kandalec as allowing nails to seem personalized without having an advanced skill set, and that is precisely the appeal. It is nail art that has an editorial appearance but is embarrassingly easy to do at home.
I am always asked when I wear this- where did you have it done? And frankly it is only time and a clever color combination. It is a bit of a secret that I love to share.
Sage Simplicity
Muffled sage has been all over and it does make sense as a november nails light colours pick. It is also soothing, harmonizing, and it matches warm and cool wardrobes. On short nails, it is particularly clean and light, as though a subtle reference to nature amidst an urban frenzy.
Olives, June WKF or Sage by Zoya are the right shade. I tend to use two layers of paint and use a watery finish to make the color clear. This color is less harsh than a nice red or black, and filters the hand almost as though it were an in-built filter.
What is so beautiful about this appearance is that it does not require anything additional artistic, shiny, accents. It’s just clean, stylish color. According to Vogue, dull greens are the new neutrals and I cannot concur with them less.
In my case, putting on this color makes me feel that I have a feeling of calmness in my heart. It is subtle and is not overlooked, a subtle suggestion of breath during a frenetic November.
Chocolate Polka Dots
What a good time polka dots on a chocolate base (matte and not shiny) have? It is a whimsical, but classy nail twist on november colours. Its dull brown is warm and the dots give it the little winking retro feel- it is like a warm sweater with a wink.
To do this, I would use the bottom half of Essies Partner in Crime as the base, and a dotting tool which has been dipped in black or deep espresso polish to subsequently make even dots. The top coat is matte, giving the look more professional, making the contrast weak.
Minimalist dot designs have been demonstrated by celebrity nail artist Betina Goldstein, who reminds us that nail art does not necessarily have to be complicated to be noticed. It is all about small things that make people give a second glance.
I personally like this manicure and it fills me with joy. It is light and not kiddish, elegant and not rigid. Just the right kind of nail polish to sport on those November days when you would like your nails to help you feel happy without hearing them rattle.
Neutral & Wine Duo
A dark wine red is an easy match to a neutral nude and is an experiment with november nails in a two-colour twist. It is traditional, glamorous and multiple, so you have the best of both worlds, softness and drama in a manicure.
I tend to use Essie, Topless and Barefoot, in order to wear something nude and OPI, Malaga Wine, or Zoya, Blair, in order to wear something deep-accented. It is just dipping every hand in a different shade and changing hands to make a very editorial and chic mani.
It is a style that is highly practical as well. It is professional enough to be used on a meeting but is also chic enough to be a night out. It is a nail polish that fits the entire November month, errands during the weekdays to dinners on the weekends.
Whenever I put this on I feel balanced- as though my hands are telling two stories at the same time. It is quiet creativity and it is always complimented as being simple yet full of thought.
Polished Midnight
There is no feeling as smooth as pure black nails in November. They are courageous, eternal and they are perfectly appropriate with today’s world of november coloured nails. On top of a striped shirt or a comfy, knitted one, shiny black turns into the perfect accessory of minimal panache.
I apply either Orly Liquid Vinyl or Essie Licorice, which is the real black. The trade secret is a glossy gel-like top glaze to make the finish smooth and smooth. Black polish will show up the chips, thus it is important to seal the edges.
Manicurist Jin Soon has frequently said, Black is the most sure of the neutrals–it goes with everything, but nothing. And she’s absolutely right. Black nails do not melt into the background, they make a statement without even having to be made.
In my case, black nails are equivalent of a leather jacket in the form of nails. They make any outfit instantly sharper and they make me seem a bit fearless. They are also a good grounding decision and in November, it will always be right.
Minimal Dot Elegance
November nails light colours can be heard with a loud voice, sometimes, when they are stripped to the bare essentials. In this case a small ivory ground is marked with a single dot–minimalism at its most intense. It is the type of manicure that speaks, not shouts, and teaches us that such things as classiness are sometimes found in moderation.
To the base, I would recommend Essie or OPI, and their marshmallow or funny bunny. The dot may be accomplished by using any dark contrasting polish such as Orly Liquid Vinyl using a dotting tool, or even a bobby pin. The trick is positioning: the dots are consistent and placed in the middle of the picture and it creates an illusion of rhythm and design.
This design is evidence of what nail artist Alicia Torello claims in interviews that nail art does not have to be complicated to be remembered. It is graphic, stylish and modern all but one accent.
In putting this on, I feel like I have added some nails to my jewelry collection small, shiny, details that add to the appearance without being too overpowering.
Golden Marble Waves
You are mesmerized by marbled nails and this cream-and-gold shade is like having a costly stone on your fingernails. It is a combination of coziness and a little shimmer, which makes it one of the prettiest autumn nails colours of the season.
I make it by applying a milky foundation such as the OPI Pale to the Chief and swirling it with beige and gold foil with a fine brush or marble with a silicone tool. The design is then sealed with glossy top which makes the metallics shine.
Manicurist Betina Goldstein has a tendency of working with marble accents on editorial shoots, and she says that it adds the richness of natural stone to the beauty. I could not concur more–it is art, only to be worn on.
Whenever I put on some marble nails, people automatically want to touch them. They are luxurious, such as silk scarfs or jewelry of gold–little luxuries that cheer up cold November days.
Lavender Dream
Lavender is not the first thing that comes to mind when you think about nails colour november, yet it is such a soft and dreamy shade, that it makes a surprisingly elegant option. Combined with simple white line decoration and a rhinestone, this manicure is both cute and classy.
I would suggest Essie as the base product in Lilacism or Lights Lacquer as Amethyst. The wavy, delicate lines are made with a fine brush dipped in white and can be put there with a dab of top coat or nail glue. Surprisingly, one can strip it off at home when you are patient.
Harpers Bazaar declares soft pastels to have been in trend moving through colder seasons since it creates a light contrast to the heavy coats and darker collections. Just that–lavender smells like a secret spring flowering on my nails in late autumn.
As an individual, I find this design making me feel young and not immature. It is smooth, beautiful and slightly surprising.
Dark Garnet Shine
The most powerful garnet shade on nails will always be in a glossy shade. It is rich, jewel-toned and seductive and yet it catches light in the best way possible because of the depth of the season. It is not showy, but it is clearly magnetic.
To this end, the OPI Black Cherry Chutney or the Chanel Rouge Noir is impossible to beat as an absolute classic. Having two coats and a top finishing that has high shine, you have that glassy appearance of nails that is sculpted and polished.
Nail artist Tom Bachik once remarked that, deep reds have timeless glamor, but do not feel at all hard on short or almond shaped nails. I tried it myself, and it is true–the shape is everything.
I always feel confident with my nails of garnet color. They are not effete, but not brash, refined without excessive effort–the type of manicure that leaves you feeling immediately well dressed.
Chestnut Glow
The chestnut brown nails are warm and grounding–perfect solid colour nails november. This color brings up images of hot cocoa, leaves in the fall and golden-hour sunset.
To do this, the Essie clothing optional or Zoyas cinnamon are splendid match. The trick is to have coats slender and shiny, so that the richness of the brown that comes naturally will be visible instead of appearing heavy.
In Allure, Jin Soon, who is a celebrity nail artist, talked about brown nails as a chic neutral nail, which can fit any season; and I believe that it looks best in November.
Personally, I can tell how chestnut brown is versatile enough–it is in the office one day and on the weekend it is easy to approach. It’s versatility bottled.
Urban Espresso
Espresso nails are the fancy relative to black. This dark coffee is a strong but casual shade of coffee, which adds depth, without starkness of plain black. It is a classic nail polish colour in November–dark, shiny, and never out of style.
I prefer such shades as Espresso Yourself by Orly or Wicked by Essie. Espresso nails are applied onto almond or square-shaped bases and because they lengthen the hand, they look great with gold jewelry as a contrast.
The Vogue editors believe that coffee-inspired colors are replacing black as the polish of the cold weather. And it is understandable–they are opulent, but less harsh than noir.
In my case, espresso nails are relaxing. They are the manicure that I go to when I need something powerful yet approachable, rough but comfortable, and like a warm latte mixed into nail polish.
Conclusion
November is the season of silent insurrection–where the full-flavored wine, soothing sages, deep brown, accents all have their due. You can have novelty with November nails one colour and play with colourful november nails but the beauty of this month is in its versatility. Your manicure may cozy, dramatic or minimal, but must always express how you wish yourself to feel in the autumn as it arrives.
