If you are like me, then you are probably nail obsessed. You are most likely excited about fall nail colors but it’s not quite that time yet. However, the time for neon hues on your nails is slowly ending (until next year that is). Here are the top early fall nail colors for that in between summer and fall time.

Nail color is an amazing accessory for any outfit. As we leave the summer season and approach fall, the color of our clothing changes. I opt for more neutral tones for clothing during that in-between time (like a beige trench coat or grey joggers). But that does not mean you only have to wear neutral tones on your nails.
This post is all about early fall nail colors.
The Best Early Fall Nail Colors
Late Summer Early Fall Nail Colors
- Olive Green – Zoya Arbor
Late summer/early fall nail colors are all about incorporating a bit of that moody fall vibe without it being too extreme. Olive green is the perfect color for that. I also call it camo green. I actually love wearing olive green all year round, but it is a great transitional color to wear.
- Warmed Up Nude – Essie Sand Tropez
Nude colors are always in. While super bright neutral tones are always available, mixing things up with deeper tones makes things fun. Whether it is a cool color or a warm color, there are beautiful options out there depending on what your tone preference is.
- Off-White – My Vampire Is Buff
This color is great for those that like to wear white on their nails (like myself) but are looking for a more muted white during this time. Stark white on the nails can be a bit jarring during this transitional period. This OPI color is a neutral off-white almost creamy sophisticated nail color that is super work-appropriate as well. The only suggestion I will have for this specific color is to make sure that you apply a good base. Otherwise, you will have to keep reapplying coat after coat and will end up in a goopy mess.
Popular Nail Colors For 2022
- Royal Blue – Essie Butler Please
Blue is always a beautiful color. During this early fall time period, where spring pastels are not really in and teal is also out of fashion, royal blue takes the stage. Much like with the OPI off-white color, make sure to get a great base for this royal blue.
- Metallic – Zoya Trixie
While you normally see a lot of metallic colors during the holiday season, this transitional time is a great period to wear metallics like gold, copper and silver. Especially if you are the type of person who, like me, tends to reach for more neutral outfits during the late summer/early fall.
- Classic Red – Essie Russian Roulette
You can never go wrong with a classic red. In fact, you can wear classic red on your nails all year round. This makes it the perfect transitional color to wear when you just aren’t sure what color to reach for. There are so many beautiful red colors. CHANEL makes a beautiful red; I’ve linked it HERE. The price point is a bit high though so if you are looking for something at a lower price point, Russian Roulette by Essie is an excellent choice.
- Burnt Orange – Essie Playing Koi
I have been in a love affair with this color for YEARS. When I first discovered it, I was absolutely blown away by how gorgeous this color is. The color isn’t red, nor is it orange. It can best be described as the perfect combination of both. It also makes for a great fall color too! I always receive so many compliments when I wear this color out. This burnt orange color is so beautiful, you will surely be reaching for it year after year.
When To Start Wearing Fall Nail Colors
I have noticed that once the jackets are officially out, the fall nail colors are officially in. Here in New York City, I usually start to reach for my jacket in mid-to-late September. The weather starts to hit 60 degrees and that is when I will reach for my favorite nail fall nail colors. If you have been following me on Instagram for a while, you have to know that I am crazy about the fall season. I love collecting fall nail colors and I have an article that lists my absolute favs that you can wear
{7 Classic Fall Nail Colors You Need}
ALSO! If you are looking for a guide on how to do a manicure at home (like the pros do). Below is an article that takes you through the entire process. In this article, I link all the products you need for the ultimate DIY manicure.
{How To Do A Professional Manicure Step By Step}