It's beginning to look a lot like autumn, which means we're due a wardrobe refresh – and our manicures could take a little inspo there, too. Patent nails are the ultra wearable trend that's emerging alongside our sweaters and stompy boots.
It makes sense. Shiny patent leather shoes have become synonymous with the season, whether it's the strappy Mary Janes serving up collegecore vibes, the vintage brogues with faded denim, hardy Doc Martens, sleek Chelsea boots or glossy heeled ankle boots. See also: slick patent midi skirts paired with cashmere, or mirror-shine totes and satchels and trench coats.
The beauty of the trend? Not only is patent hard-wearing and rain-proof, it also offers a delicious contrast against soft knits and slouchy blazers.
The same is true on our nails. An ultra shiny, lacquered, hard-shell finish adds a little toughness, especially when paired with deeper, vampy colours like obsidian, cocoa, merlot and crocodile green, but, it still manages to feel modern and elegant, too.
We've spotted some of our favourite nail artists leading the trend with high-shine top coats that leave nails looking extra luxe and polished.

Luxury London-based manicurist, Julia Diogo, has been serving up plenty of inspo with glossy shades of liquorice, forest green and mulberry. Likewise, Harriet Westmoreland, Iram Shelton, Betina Goldstein and Mel from Overglow Edit are all great accounts to visit for patent nail ideas.
Here's 11 of our favourite ways to wear patent nails…
1. Wine black
Instagram content
2. Oud brown
Instagram content
3. Evergreen
Instagram content
4. Black berry
Instagram content
5. Deep purple
Instagram content
6. Leather look
Instagram content
7. Forest green
Instagram content
8. Burgundy
Instagram content
9. Liquorice
Instagram content
10. Rouge Noir
Instagram content
11. Inky blue
Instagram content
Browse more autumn nail trends below…
- The biggest autumn nail trends to know, according to the pros
- Chocolate glazed donut nails is the latest manicure trend from Hailey Bieber
- Velvet nails are trending, and they're the perfect manicure for autumn
For more from GLAMOUR's Beauty Editor, Elle Turner, follow her on Instagram @elleturneruk

