As the chill of fall subsides in and we're well into winter's chilly embrace, nail trends are taking a deep dive into rich, earthy tones that reflect the mood of the season. We’ve already seen an uptick in this tonal trend with the widespread popularity of brunette color trends and brown hues all over the runway, and this year, brown is emerging as a major player in the world of manicures. Offering a range of shades that feel sophisticated, cozy, and endlessly versatile, everything from deep chocolates to dusty taupes are game. Read on to take a look at the top brown nail trends that are dominating the 2025 scene.
The Top 4 Brown Nail Color Trends of 2025
1. Chocolate Brown
One of the most luxurious nail trends this season is the smooth, rich chocolate brown finish. Think of the deepest, darkest cocoa – a shade that’s almost black but carries just enough warmth to soften its edge. This nail color works beautifully on shorter, squarer nails, giving them an air of sophistication and modernity. To add a little extra flair, many nail artists are incorporating velvet finishes. This matte but slightly iridescent texture mimics the soft sheen of actual velvet, making the nails look lush and expensive. It’s the perfect understated elegance for a cozy night by the fire or a chic holiday party.
Shop The Shade:
essie Odd Squad Rich Brown
2. Terracotta
Terracotta nails offer a warm, clay-like brown that's ideal for those wanting a softer look. This hue pairs perfectly with autumn’s earthy palette – think sweaters in rust, burnt orange, and olive green. Terracotta shades have an inviting warmth that evokes the desert in golden-hour light or freshly fallen leaves on a crisp fall day. Terracotta also lends itself well to nail art. Expect to see this shade combined with minimalist designs, such as delicate gold accents or simple geometric lines, which keep the look modern and wearable. For those leaning into the season’s artistic flair, subtle ombré techniques, blending terracotta with deeper browns, are growing in popularity.
Shop The Shade:
OPI My Italian Is A Little Rusty
3. Cappuccino
Coffee lovers, rejoice! Cappuccino-inspired nail designs are trending for 2025, blending shades of brown with creamy whites and caramels for a light brown finish or a swirled, marble-like effect. These nails often combine soft latte hues with darker espresso shades to create an elegant, abstract look.
Swirl designs work best with a glossy finish to highlight the creamy contrasts and are a perfect statement for both long almond-shaped nails and shorter, rounder ones. This trend taps into the nostalgic comfort of a cozy café moment, making it an instant hit for colder months.
Shop The Shade:
OPI Millennium Mocha
4. Brown French
The classic French manicure is getting a seasonal twist, with brown replacing the traditional white tips. This modernized French tip can feature shades like espresso, taupe, or even a dark mocha. The result? A look that's fresh, unexpected, but still polished enough for everyday wear. Some versions of the brown French tip play with matte vs. glossy contrasts, where the base of the nail is matte and the tip is high-shine. Others are experimenting with curved or angled tips instead of the classic straight line, adding even more of a contemporary spin. Pair these with a nude or soft beige base for a neutral look that feels grounded but chic.
Shop The Shade:
ILNP Chocolate Brown
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