I always find it a bit of a relief when autumn rolls around again. As much as love summer, wondering what I am going to wear every day to keep cool in the heat (and whether my legs are smooth enough and fake-tanned enough for shorter hemlines) is a bit of a headache every morning. Wrapping up warm in cashmere cardigans, leggings, and sheepskin boots is a real treat. There is, however, very little variation in my wardrobe (especially on the coldest days, when all you can see is the same coat and same pair of boots) – so I like to jazz up my outfits, so to speak, by following catwalk nail trends very closely.

This season, there’s lots to get excited about for nails too – from the stormiest midnight blue hues to give drama to our outfits, to flashes of soft metallic to add style to a neutral look, to bold artistic prints and effects to make a statement.

Take a look at my suggestions below and get painting!

MIDNIGHT BLUE
As seen at: Milly and Behnaz Serafpour

Dark blue nails, with or without a flash of metallic, were very prevalent on the Autumn/Winter runways. This is a really simple way to add style and drama to your outfit – whether it’s a pair of jeans for a laid-back look, or a little black dress as eveningwear.
Kit: Dior Vernis Long-Wearing Nail Lacquer in Blue Label, £17.15.

CREATIVE NAIL ART
As seen at: Kate Spade, The Blonds, and Rachel Anotoff

Nail art continues to be a top trend. Whether it’s metallic foils, bright colour combinations, crackle-effect coats, or bold contrasting polka dots, your nails couldn’t be more on-trend than when you get creative with your polish.
Kit: Dior Golden Jungle Crocodile Leather Effect Nails, £22.90.

ALTERNATIVE FRENCH MANICURES
As seen at: Thakoon, Joy Cio, and Louise Gray.

Forget classic French Manicures. This season, it’s all about mixing up the colours. I like the idea of a natural base (beige or pale pink are my picks) with a splash of colour on the tips (red, purple, or bright pink would be my choice). Have fun and experiment – you just need imagination and a steady hand.
Kit: Nailtiques Nail Lacquer with Protein in Vienna and Tahiti, £9.45 each.

SHINY METALLICS
As seen at: Alexandre Herchcovitch, John Paul Gaultier,

Metallics and shimmer don’t have to be reserved for the festive season – get started in October and you will be way ahead in the style stakes. Keep nails short and rounded for this look. My pick is silver or pale gold.
Kit: Nailtiques Nail Lacquer with Protein in Geneva, £9.45.

PURPLE HUES
As seen at: Dior, Valentino, and Ruffian.

Whether it’s clothing, accessories, or nail polish – there are few more fashionable hues for the season ahead than purple. From the darkest violets, to the brightest plums, to the softest lavender shades, you really can’t go wrong with this hue.
Kit: Dior Vernis Long-Wearing Nail Lacquer in Purple Mix, £17.15.