It's September, which means we're in that awkward phase where the end of summer blends into the start of autumn. You're not quite ready to give up the bright, playful pedicure colours that have carried you through summer, but suddenly reaching for a neon pink or tropical coral doesn't feel quite right either. This is where transitional pedicure shades come in—colours that still feel fresh enough for bare feet and sandals, but have a slightly more polished, autumn-ready vibe to them.
This September, I'm seeing a mix of glossy neutrals, muted brights and cooler finishes that feel surprisingly chic on toes. There are the usual autumnal suspects—think rich mocha and cherry red—but they're joined by icy chrome, muted lime and a cooler take on the classic French pedicure. And whilst peach might sound like a decidedly summery choice, a glossy, almost milky version feels much more understated for the start of autumn.
Whether you're booking your final sandals-on pedicure of the year or simply like keeping your toes polished underneath boots and trainers, these are the six colours I'm bookmarking for September.
1. Glossy Peach
Peach might traditionally be associated with summer, but a glossy, pared-back version feels surprisingly appropriate for September. Rather than the bright, orange-toned peaches we've been seeing in warmer months, look for something soft, milky and slightly muted. The result is almost like a sheer wash of peach on the nails, with plenty of glossy shine. It's an easy choice if you want your pedicure to feel polished and neutral without committing to a deeper autumnal shade just yet.
A sheer, glossy peach with a milky finish that gives toes a fresh, barely-there wash of colour.
A sophisticated pale peach with Chanel's signature glossy finish and long-wearing formula.
2. Cherry Red
If there's one pedicure colour that can carry you seamlessly from summer into autumn, it's cherry red. Richer and slightly moodier than the bright tomato red that trended this summer, this is the shade to choose when you want something classic but with a little more impact. Think glossy, lacquer-like finishes rather than anything too dark or burgundy.
This deep, sophisticated red inspired by Hermès' iconic Rouge H lipstick is perfect for a moodier autumn pedicure.
Designed to strengthen and condition nails, this nourishing nail treatment leaves behind a glossy cherry red finish.
3. Icy Chrome
Chrome isn't going anywhere, but as we head towards autumn, I'm noticing icy, silver-toned versions rather than the warmer glazed finishes that dominated summer. On toes, the reflective finish gives even the simplest pedicure a little something extra, without being quite so eye-catching as a bright or bold colour. Keep the nails short and the shape neat to stop it veering too futuristic, and opt for a sheer, translucent chrome if you want something more understated.
An easy way to get the look without heading to a salon—this shimmery chrome-effect topcoat transforms your usual polish (or bare toes) with a cool, multidimensional metallic finish.
A glossy glazed neutral that gives nails and toes a soft, reflective finish without feeling too stark.
4. Mocha Brown
September is when I start craving brown nail polish again, and mocha is probably the easiest way to ease yourself into the darker shades of autumn. It's understated enough to work with practically everything, but still gives your pedicure that richer, more autumnal feel. I'd pair it with a high-shine top coat to make the colour look glossy rather than flat.
This rich, warm brown polish that channels the cosy, coffee-inspired tones of early autumn.
A richly-pigmented dark brown that coats nails in lasting colour while helping to strengthen them.
5. Muted Lime
A muted lime might not be the most obvious September pedicure choice, but it's ideal for anyone heading abroad for some end-of-summer sun. The key is finding a version that's slightly dusty and toned down, rather than the zingy, almost-neon greens associated with summer. On toes, it adds a subtle hit of colour without looking overly bright, and feels particularly good with neutral clothing. If you're not quite ready for autumn's browns and reds, consider this your transitional shade.
Soft and muted, this lime green polish brings a surprisingly wearable hit of colour to your September pedicure.
A vibrant lime green that delivers a playful pop of colour whilst still feeling fresh and modern.
6. Cool-Toned French Tip
September is the perfect time to give your French pedicure a subtle update, and a cool-toned version feels particularly chic right now. Instead of classic nude, think lilac-toned pinks, soft greys and cool beige against a fresh white tip. The effect is incredibly clean and minimal, but the cooler tones make it feel noticeably different from the traditional French.
Everything you need to create a classic French pedicure at home, including a cool nude base and crisp white polish for the tips.
A two-piece gel polish set containing the essentials for creating a clean, long-lasting French pedicure (or manicure) at home.
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