Moscow Mule Nails Are The Ultimate Fall Manicure

By Charlie Colville

1 week ago

We'll take this trend shaken, not stirred


The latest autumnal beauty trend to hit the internet has us craving a trip to the bar – the nail bar, that is. Channelling the coppery hues of the season, Moscow mule nails are set to be the next big manicure.

What Are Moscow Mule Nails?

‘Moscow mule nails are characterised by a shiny, metallic appearance, which mimics the copper and bronze mugs typically used to serve up the eponymous cocktail,’ explains Tinu Bello, a manicurist and Senior Mylee Ambassador. ‘Nails are finished with a rich chrome, in shades of brown, bronze and copper. The result is a chic, reflective manicure that gives off an industrial but sleek finish, perfect for those who love a modern mani.’

@noorphin moscow mule nails are THE nails of fall 2024. thank me later #nailinspo #fallnails #fall2024nails #moscowmulenails #nailtok #fallnails2024 #copperchromenails ♬ Haunted Waltz – Halloween Music & Halloween Sound Effects & Halloween All-Stars

The trend has also been a massive hit on TikTok, with creators dubbing it the ultimate autumn manicure. And, with 8.3 million posts in counting tagged under #moscowmulenails, we don’t see this trend going away anytime soon.

How To Ask For Moscow Mule Nails At The Salon

In the salon, ask for a coppery manicure with a metallic finish. This will help create the classic Moscow mule manicure. If you want to branch out and experiment, you’ll need to do a little more planning. Round up some reference images from Instagram and Pinterest that you’re happy showing to your nail tech, so they can better understand what you’re after.

How To Recreate The Look

If you like the look enough to try it at home, then you have a few options. You can either get an all-in-one metallic polish (for a quick fix) or use a combination of polish and powder to create that chrome effect.

@studiobarinails These really are going to be the it girl look for fall #moscowmulenails #fallnails #fallnailinspo ♬ Taste – Sabrina Carpenter

Tinu lays out the steps for trying the latter look:

  1. Prep your nails and apply a bottom coat.
  2. Apply a base colour. For a true bronze chrome, I recommend using a black base – but you could also try over a copper or bronze shade for an iridescent finish.
  3. Apply a clear top coat.
  4. Use an applicator brush or your finger to apply a small amount of chrome powder to your nails. Rub the powder in until it covers the nail.
  5. Use a nail buffer to gently remove any loose powder from the free edge of your nail.
  6. Apply the final layer: another clear top coat.

Nails Inspiration

While the classic Moscow mule manicure is a sleek, all-over metallic finish, you can also play with different colours, effects and nail designs. ‘Mix up the metallics to create a bespoke look for the finish you love, from darker bronze to lighter copper, making them super versatile,’ suggests Tinu. ‘Experiment with texture too – the mottled effect of the cocktail mug is something that will evolve this trend to the next level.’

1. Classic Moscow Mule Nails

2. Gradual French Tips

 

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3. Jelly Nails

 

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4. Mix & Match

 

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5. Bubble Nails

 

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6. 3D Moscow Mule Nails

7. Stiletto French Tips

 

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8. Coffin Nails

9. Dark Moscow Mule Nails

10. Chrome Tips

 

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