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When you think of fall, the first things that come to mind are probably pumpkin spice lattes, cozy sweaters, and comforting food. But if you're anything like us, you think of all the autumnal nail colors you can't wait to wear, too. It's the time of year when subtle nudes and vibrant hues turn into rich browns, deep reds, and oranges reminiscent of crunchy fall leaves. And with Thanksgiving just around the corner, now's the perfect time to change up your look and channel the official kickoff of the holiday season.
With that in mind, we've rounded up a list of the 10 best nail polishes to wear on Thanksgiving this year, including a wide range of exciting new color trends and cult classics alike. No matter what you plan on wearing to the occasion—be it your cashmere sweatpants or a show-stopping dress and knee-high boots, the shades that follow are fit for the occasion.
How We Found The Best Fall Nail Colors
To round up this list, we turned to the help of our unbiased algorithm. Unique to Rank & Style, this data-driven tool finds and ranks the best products on the internet by factoring in best-selling buzz, editor recommendations, rave reviews, and more. From a moody shade of pink to the chicest olive green, scroll on to see what shades and colors are trending and sport them at your upcoming feast.
Next up, check out the 10 Best Dark Nail Polishes. Opening image: opi.com
November 4, 2021
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The Rankings
Essie Nail Polish In Good As Gold
SOFT GOLD
WHY IT MADE THE LIST: Thanksgiving is basically a kickoff to the holiday season, and what better way to celebrate than with a shimmery, champagne-like shade? This one from Essie has been trending for years now, and for good reason. It's more of a subtle chrome than an intense glitter, and all it takes is one coat for a gorgeous, completely opaque finish.
HELPFUL TIP: If you want something a little subtler, use this shade on the tips of your French manicure for a modern, minimal look that still feels festive.
Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Nail Polish In Midnight Mod
MIDNIGHT BLUE
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT: Bold blues have been big this fall, and reviewers love this lacquer in particular for its incredible formula. It requires no UV lamp but provides the same cushiony shine and lasting power as a professional gel mani.
USER REVIEW: "This is by far the most impressive nail polish I've ever owned. It's easy to apply and correct, the coverage is wonderful, and it lasts for weeks even without a top coat. The dark blue shade is absolutely gorgeous. My nails look professionally done!"
Olive & June Nail Polish In Fig Ranch
COOL PINK
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT: Pink may not be your usual shade this time of year, but this moody option has touches of grey and lavender that make it feel perfect for Thanksgiving. It's made with Olive & June's proprietary formula that has the prettiest gel-like finish, and reviewers rave that it's incredibly long-lasting.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: This polish has a wide, fan-shaped brush that makes painting both hands a breeze.
Gucci Vernis à Ongles Nail Polish In Annabel Rose
WARM NUDE
WHY IT MADE THE LIST: You can never go wrong with nude, especially one as splurge-worthy as Gucci's Annabel Rose. The high-coverage formula leaves a super shiny finish, and the color looks equally stunning on every skin tone.
HELPFUL TIP: For something a little more playful, try a different nude shade on each nail to create an ombré effect.
Essie Expressie Quick-Dry Nail Polish In Bolt And Be Bold
VIBRANT ORANGE
WHY IT MADE THE LIST: Orange is one of the biggest color trends of the season, and sporting it on your tips is such a simple way to nail the look. This shade from Essie makes it even easier thanks to the single-coat application and one-minute dry time.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: Expressie polishes come with Essie's first-ever patented-angle brush that allows for easy application with both hands. Pure genius, if you ask us.
Chanel Le Vernis Longwear Nail Color In Vamp
RICH WINE
WHY IT MADE THE LIST: Is it really fall if you don't rock at least one merlot-colored mani? This shimmery Chanel pick is the crème de la crème of vampy shades, and the high-shine finish is unlike any other. Plus, it just so happens to pair perfectly with cranberry sauce and your red wine of choice.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: This smoky red hue is so iconic, it's won an Allure Best of Beauty Award, gained a cult following from celebrity manicurists, and even earned its own Wikipedia page.
Ella+Mila Nail Polish In Paradise Isle
OLIVE GREEN
WHY IT MADE THE LIST: There's something about green that feels so fitting for the season. Reminiscent of fall leaves, scenic drives, and Christmas tree decorating, this enchanting shade feels fresh but still classic.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: Ella+Mila nail colors are 7-free, vegan, and PETA certified. Bonus points: they're also pregnancy-safe.
OPI Nail Lacquer In Endless Sun-Ner
COCOA BROWN
WHY IT MADE THE LIST: If there's one color that's practically guaranteed to pair well with any Thanksgiving look, it's this warm cocoa hue. While it's actually part of OPI's summer collection, it translates perfectly to the cooler season.
USER REVIEW: "This is the perfect shade of coppery brown to transition from summer to early fall. The color is clear and bright. This one is a winner!"
Cirque Colors Crème Nail Polish In Urbanized
GOLDEN YELLOW
WHO IT'S FOR: If you really want to hang on to your warm-weather manicures, you'll be happy to find that yellow is one of fall 2021's major nail trends. A little more muted than your average sunny shade, it's the perfect way to add a pop of color to your Turkey Day look without steering to summery.
USER REVIEW: "I’ve only purchased two colors from this brand but the formulas are amazing. This one in particular is super creamy and is full coverage with two coats. Lasts about a week before I start seeing any wear."
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