Zara Tindall’s unexpected nail colour is setting the trend for jewel-toned manicures this autumn
The equestrian makes a case for swapping your go-to neutrals and reds for this chic and classy hue
Many of us are well acquainted with pinks, nudes, and reds when it comes to painting our talons, but there's an unusual shade that's proving to be a popular choice this season.
As the colder season draws in, it's unsurprising that the list of 2026 nail trends skews toward deeper, richer, and moodier hues. From red carpets to royal appearances, navy nails have been sported by many household names in recent weeks.
Now, it's been given royal approval by none other than Zara Tindall, who sported the mani at this weekend's 2026 British Champions Day. We've taken note, and now our next nail appointment inspiration is sorted.
Zara Tindall pictured at British Champions Day 2026
Boasting an opaque, full-coverage formula, the Gel by essie Longwear Nail Polish in 'Caviar Bay' is a deep navy nail polish with a plump, high-gloss finish. This formula rivals the results of a gel manicure and lasts up to 15 days long, all without needing a UV lamp.
The key to a good manicure, especially one that rivals a salon service, is using a glossy top coat. Enter, OPI’s Mirror Shine Top Coat. This quick-drying formula seals in your colour, promotes the longevity of your manicure, protects your nails against chipping and delivers a radiant, high-shine finish.
If you're short on time, look no further than Sally Hansen's Insta-Dri Nail Polish in shade 'Midnight Drive'. This innovative formula is designed to be applied in just one swipe, not to mention it is already equipped with both a base and top coat to allow for extended wear time. What's more, it dries down in just 60 seconds – yes, you heard that right.
The chillier weather not only brings chunky knitwear and spiced hot drinks, but moody manicures too. We've seen burgundy, brown, and even black nails, but there's another rich shade appearing on the talons of many this autumn.
Adorning an opulent jewel-toned hue that changed with the light, Zara opted for an unexpected navy nail colour – a look that is proving to be a popular choice this season. The Olympian paired the shade with a short square nail shape and a glossy top coat with a mirror-like shine, which was nothing short of a winning combination.
For those wanting to recreate the look, we'd recommend opting for a base coat (such as essie's Strong Start Nail Polish Base Coat) to improve wear time, smooth your nail bed's texture and prevent any staining of the deeper hue. What's more, the shade also makes an excellent autumn pedicure choice too.
Commenting on the trend, Digital Beauty Writer, Sennen Prickett says: "It's a different, bolder, and moodier take on a neutral manicure, yet the classy shade is still minimal enough to effortlessly complement any outfit for any event. Pair with an ultra-glossy finish, and you've got yourself a winning manicure."
