Anne Hathaway Has Officially Convinced Us All to Try Merlot Nails This Fall

Mark Sagliocco//Getty ImagesWhen pre-mani panic sets in (read: the impossible task of choosing between hundreds of near-identical colors), Pinterest never fails. It is the forum for endless nail inspiration. That said, there is one celebrity currently trumping every single pin I've carefully curated with effortless red-carpet appearance after another: Anne Hathaway. Honestly, why do I even bother when I could just scour her Instagram?At one of the actor's most recent outings, for the opening of the Moncler Fifth Avenue flagship store on September 10, 2026, she was spotted with a brand new set of nails that scream autumn. Enter: Merlot nails.As its name would suggest, merlot nails are defined by their rich wine-like color. Think: a glossy blend of plum and black cherry tones with just enough deliciously edible shine to make you briefly consider licking your own nails. Not that I would recommend it…Manoli Figetakis//Getty ImagesManoli Figetakis//Getty ImagesMark Sagliocco//Getty ImagesMark Sagliocco//Getty ImagesNow, while we do love Anne's minimalist interpretation of merlot nails (short, polished and sans-design), they can be adapted to suit your personal preferences. Add a rhinestone or chrome topper for some pizzazz, or simply rock the color alone for a pared-back look like Anne's. Remember: there are no rules when it comes to beauty.Basically, if you're looking for an on-trend fall nail look that requires very little thought, look no further. Consider your manicure decision-making fatigue officially over.Ahead, seven merlot nail designs to take with you to your next appointment. Who needs a Pinterest board when Anne Hathaway can lend a helping hand (literally)?Merlot nails inspiration1@paintedbyjools2Merlot French Tips@overgloweditAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below3Merlot Aura@nailsby_hal4Merlot Chrome@gellish.studioAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below5Deep Merlot@nailsbymh6Merlot Florals@samrosenailsAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below7Merlot Polka Dots@gellish.studioWhy trust Cosmopolitan? Lia Mappoura is the beauty writer at Cosmopolitan UK, with over four years of experience reporting across the brand's print, social, video and digital platforms. Lia covers everything from emerging trend analysis to viral celebrity hair and makeup moments, making her an expert at spotting the season’s next big beauty look (before it takes over social media feeds).