The Best Black Nail Designs To Inspire Your Next Manicure (2024)

Black nail designs are trending right now (look to Pinterest for the proof) – and it might come as something of a surprise. Often, as the weather cools down, we’ll look to warm autumnal tones and seasonal appropriate prints like the Hailey Bieber-approved tortoiseshell mani. This year? Less so. Instead, we’re making a play for a mani most often associated with the turn of the season – black nails.

The ultimate moody hue, black is opulent, luxurious and utterly chic. It can look put together and polished, vampish and sultry, gothic and grungy, all in the same breadth –proving it to be an incredibly versatile colour.

One person potentially responsible for the revival of black polish, is actress Jenna Ortega. There's no denying that her Wednesday Addams revival has contributed to a rise in midnight shades – a trend that sits in direct contrast with Margot Robbie's Barbie movie (the search for bright pink nail designs has also seen a resurgence).

The good news is there’s a black nail design to suit each of the nail shapes we see sported most often - whether you're a fan of almond designs or even coffin. Fromclassic French manicures to statement nail art, there's an abundance of ways to go back to black. Read on for more...

The Best Black Nail Designs For 2023

Gothic Black Nails

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Iram Shelton proves that black is back with this modern flame nail art design. You can create the look at home with a small eyeliner brush… and a very steady hand.

Try it with: Essie Nail Polish in 88 Licorice, £8.99

Image credit: Instagram @iramshelton

Matte Black Nails

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Matte black nails with a glossy black French tip? It’s cool, it’s chic and it’s modern. We’ll absolutely be trying this at our next nail appointment.

Try with: Nailberry L'Oxygéné Oxygenated Nail Lacquer in Blackberry, £16

Image credit: Instagram @iramshelton

Black and White Heart Nails

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This nude, white and black nail design feels fun, chic and fresh. Combine with long acrylic extensions, or grow out your nails using strengthening BIABfor the best version of this look

Try this: Barry M Cosmetics Gelly Hi Shine Nail, £3.99

Image credit: Instagram @kuypernailart

Black and Gold Glitter Nails

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Black and gold glitter nails always make for a winning combination. This look combines French with ombre nails for a dazzling look that leaves us looking towards Christmas manicures. Any excuse, really.

Try this: Nails Inc Total Blackout Ultimate Black Nail Polish, £9

Image credit: Instagram @thehouseofbeautybromsgrove

Black And Green Nails

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Black, holographic nails with a streak of glittering green isn’t for wallflowers. If it’s a look you’d like to get on board with, ensure the sharpest stiletto point for added drama.

Try with: OPI Nail Lacquer Peppermint Bark and Bite, £14.90

Image credit: Instagram @thehouseofbeautybromsgrove

Short Black Nails

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Harriet Westmoreland does it again with these short black gel nails – it’s a classic look. And if you fancy switching things up? Black and silver nails work well too.

Try with: Manicurist Nail Polish in Licorice, £14

Image credit: Instagram @HarrietWestmoreland

Black and Pink Nails

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If you’re a more is more kind of girl, then consider is contrasting pink and black combination that’s sure to reel in the compliments. Diamonds add a Euphoria-esque finish.

Try with: Mylee The Crown Jewels Kit - Nail Art Set with Silver & Gold Decorations, £9.99
Image credit: Instagram @polished_by_caitlin

Abstract Black Swirls

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Give black nails a fresh spin with this spirally, abstract set. A milky base will made the art pop while lending the look a clean finish.

Try with: OPI Nail Polish in Funny Bunny, £13.50

Image credit: Instagram @peachinails

Negative Space Black Mani

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For a subtle hint of black, look to this ensamble – a chic and minimalist negative space manicure made up of line art. Entirely unique in composition, it's guaranteed to make onlookers double take.

Try with:Manicurist Dotting Tool & Nail Art Liner Brush Duo, £27

Image credit: Instagram @ror.ling

Black Nail Design Almond Shape

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Ultra-feminine and chic, the classic rounded almond shape of this set works to compliment its high-shine, glossy jet back finish.

Try with: OPI Lincoln Park After Dark, £14.90

Image credit: Instagram @iramshelton

Black Nail Art

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This is certainly a fun way to experiment with nail art. Test out variations of your chosen illustration and use a fine brush to perfect the look you desire.

Try with: NAILS INC Mani Marker Black, £5

Image credit: Instagram @nails.bab

Black Halloween Nails

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A twist on the classic French mani, this set is given the Halloween treatment with black tips and admittedly cute-looking white spider webs.

Try with::a[Le Mini Macaron Gel Polish in Creme Brulee, £14]{href='https://www.asos.com/le-mini-macaron/le-mini-macaron-gel-polish-creme-brulee/prd/204625035' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener'}

Image credit: Instagram @nailsbyalsn

Black Ombre Nails

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This gel polish look may look easier said than done but with right tools and technique you can achieve a salon finish at home.

Try with: Halo Gel Nails Ombre & One Stroke Nail Art Brush, £11.95

Image credit: Instagram @_lonelyedit

The Black Classic French Manicure

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The classic French mani can be given the black nail makeover with a glossy black polish and an uber shiny top coat.

Try with: The GelBottle Gel Polish in Jet Black, £14.50

Image credit: Instagram @thehotblend

Black And White Monochrome

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This retro yet delicate spin on the French uses an alternating reverse mani technique to create an entirely dynamic design.

Try this: The GelBottle Gel Polish in Daisy Pure White, £14.50

Image credit: Instagram @gelsbybry

Negative Space Square Black Nails

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Chic and sophisticated, this squared off nail shape accentuated with a negative spaced French style is an effortless take on a classic.

Try this: The GelBottle Gel Polish in Daisy Pure White, £14.50

Image credit: Instagram @gelsbybry

Cow Print Black Nails

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This abstract cow print manages to keep things cute with subtle nods to the pattern and pops of orange.

Try with: Halo Gel Nails Luxury Awaits Gel Polish Collection, £6.95

Image credit: Instagram @peachinails

Black And Nude Polka Dot Nails

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These sharp almond nails are finessed with an elegant looking black outline and a central dotting technique. It may look simple enough but we assume a certain level of expertise will be needed to ace the style.

Try with: Mylee Nail Art Accesory - Stainless Steel Dotting Tool, £5

Image credit: Instagram @nolas.nails

Black And White Flame Nails

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These perfectly crafted black and white flame nails come with the addition of cleverly concealed hearts which give the popular style a unique edge.

Try with: OPI Nail Polish in Alpine Snow White, £14.90

Image credit: Instagram @nails.by_jenn

Black Glitter Nails

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Want a real black nail moment? Here's your answer: a modern black French mani, bedazzled with black glitter. Uff.

Try with: Halo Gel Nails Create Nail Art Glittersin Be Power, £2.50

Image credit: Instagram @naildbyliz_

Black And White Tuxedo Nails

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Nail pro Iram Shelton created this look - what she calls the 'Tuxedo French' - with OPI's nail polishes in Lady in Black and Alpine Snow, as well as a mixed nude base made up of OPI's Nail Polish in Bubble Bath and Love Is In The Bare.

Try with: OPI Nail Lacquer Lady in Black, £11.92

Image credit: Instagram @iramshelton

Shop: The Best Black Nail Essentials

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This true black opaque polish will lend you high-shine, sleek nails that look like they've been

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Main image credit: Instagram @HarrietWestmoreland

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The Best Black Nail Designs To Inspire Your Next Manicure (2024)

FAQs

What is the black nail trend? ›

Black nails are the ultimate statement, whether dark and moody is your everyday aesthetic or you're looking for tips that say "Not today, Valentine's Day." If you've been considering a black manicure, winter is the time to get one—and we're not just talking about simple solids; black polish can be used to create some ...

What is the black nail theory? ›

The idea behind black nail theory is that a shiny black manicure can boost your confidence, which is not unlike the purported effects of a classic red mani. However, the goal of painting your nails black is not to attract attention from men. It's about doing it as an act of empowerment for yourself.

Who looks good in black nail polish? ›

If you've got fairer skin, black nail polish can create a striking contrast and stand out. But, if you've got a darker complexion, you can also use black nail polish to get that perfect sleek look.

How can I make my black nails look good? ›

Choose a true black shade like Sienna's Onyx for an intense and uniform look. Remove any excess polish from the brush before you start. Paint a vertical line in the centre of your nail, then paint a smooth stripe on either side of that to fill in the nail. Move on to the next nail until all are complete.

Do black nails look classy? ›

This color is sophisticated, chic, and dramatic. It looks beautiful on its own, but it can also add a great charm to other nail colors when combined. And the best thing about a black manicure is that it can go with any outfit and occasion. You can also twist and turn a black manicure into any style you like.

Can black nails be classy? ›

They're super chic, elegant and timeless. It's also a shade that flatters all skin tones.” Saving these for our next mani appointment. From solid blocks of glossy black to a black micro French manicure, there are several ways to experiment with this trend.

What does having one nail painted black mean? ›

If you see a man with a single painted nail, most often the ring finger, he is probably partaking in the Polished Man campaign. This campaign was started by Elliot Costello when he traveled to Cambodia and met a little girl named Thea. Thea recounted the sexual abuse she suffered.

What do green nails mean on a girl? ›

Green: Associated with relaxation, nature and money. It stimulates harmony and balance in our brains. It symbolizes nature so it implies an eco-friendly personality. Blue: Signifies stable sentiments such as trust, tranquility, security, and wisdom.

Does black nail polish mean depression? ›

Black nail polish used to be associated with depression, rock stars or Emos, but today it has a whole new meaning. In addition to being a symbol of empowerment, black nail polish also makes you stand out from the crowd and will make you sexier.

What is the most attractive nail color on a black woman? ›

Anything from classic red to pastel pink will look perfect on dark skin tones. And mauve is an ideal in-between shade to bring an air of elegance and sophistication to your look. This gorgeous mix of pink and blue is a stunning step up from nude shades without dedicating your nail art to a more vibrant look.

Do black nails go with everything? ›

For a chic and edgy look, black nail polish is a versatile color that never goes out of style. It goes well with both formal and casual ensembles and gives a dramatic touch. Black nails are a popular choice for those who are fashion-forward since they can give an image that is sleek and contemporary.

Why do people like black nail polish? ›

It represents strength, authority, and elegance. In the world of fashion and beauty, black nail polish is a reflection of confidence, empowerment, and a touch of mystery. Historically, black has been associated with the unknown, the vast cosmos, and the depth of the human psyche.

Does black look good on short nails? ›

Certain colors and shades can create the illusion of longer nails. For example, light and neutral colors like beige, nude, pale pink, and light gray can make your nails appear longer. On the other hand, darker colors like black, navy blue, and dark red can make your nails look shorter.

Are black fingernails attractive? ›

Black, one of the favorite colors, is considered particularly trendy and is therefore also associated with attractiveness.

Do black nails make your fingers look thinner? ›

If you have small nails, coat them entirely with these light colours to make them look bigger. Ladies know that while black has a slimming effect, white works the other way round. Remember this goes for hands and nails as well.

Why is everyone painting their nails black? ›

Black nail polish can be seen as edgy, sophisticated, or trendy, depending on the person and their fashion sense. Cultural or subcultural identity: In some subcultures, such as goth, punk, or emo, black nail polish is a common way to express one's identity and aesthetic.

Why are so many people wearing black nail polish? ›

It's become popular within male pop culture. And guys wearing nail polish, especially black, is a way to challenge the traditional stereotypes. and express themselves in a new and unique way. At the end of the day, it's about what feels good to you.

What do black toe nails mean? ›

Trauma resulting in a subungual hematoma is the most common cause of black toenail. 3 It may be due to stubbing the toe or dropping something on it. The injury bleeds, and the blood is trapped under the nail, where it darkens. If you're a runner or walk a lot, you may have "runner's toe," a form of subungual hematoma.

What is the nail color theory on TikTok? ›

The “red nail theory,” a term coined by TikTok creator Robyn Delmonte, aka @GirlBossTown, has become a viral sensation. The idea is simple: If you wear red nail polish, you're more likely to receive attention from potential suitors.

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