You might use a rainbow of colors when designing your next manicure, but there’s something about the appeal of a pitch-black manicure—especially this time of year—that That makes you feel so right. The color evokes a bit of midnight magic while still exuding sophistication and it’s perfect when used as a stand-alone color or combined with other colors. From subtle gloss-finish-matte effects to glitter to metallic accents, we’re sure at least one of these edgy black nail designs will inspire.
This minimalist black nail design is perfect for those who want a little flavor on their nails. Choose two accent nails to paint a creamy cream color, then paint the rest black. On the accent nail, create an abstract line with black polish and fill in that color.
For subtle texture, apply a coat of matte polish to the nail on the left side and a coat of gloss polish on the other side. Use a fine nail art brush to draw abstract squiggly lines, using matte for glossy hands and gloss for matte hands.
If all-black nails seem a bit too rigid, let your feminine side stand out a bit by painting your nails a light pink. This one is a bit sparkly and has shiny silver horizontal stripes.
This edgy black nail design combines black with silver and white for a bold contrasting effect. Apply a coat of nude nail polish on both accent nails and then add a little black French nail polish to each nail. Reverse this process for the remaining three nails, creating a nude French manicure on top of the black nail. Add silver and white embellishments as you see fit.
This is a good choice for those who crave a more elaborate black nail design. Start by painting your nails a cream, slightly pink color and then use a nail art pen to draw crosses on each nail. Add a gem at each intersection to create a sparkling moment.
These Riverside, paradise-inspired nails are sure to attract attention thanks to their attention to detail and textural elements. Paint two nails solid black as highlights, then create a reverse French style for the remaining nails. Apply a base coat and while still tacky, add embellishments with metallic stickers. Finish with two or three coats of top coat to keep your nails lasting longer.
Not a fan of nail stickers but want a heavenly aesthetic? Try this mani instead. Paint your nails a nude cream color, then add a little black French nail polish to each nail. Use a small, white nail art pen to create dots and stars, then use it to create a semicircular outline at the bottom.
Keep it simple with this contrasting negative space nail design. Start with a nude base, then use a fine nail brush dipped in black polish to create a curvy design that moves in an easy line from the base of the nail to the tip.
This ultra-dramatic manicure—which the nail artist calls the “dracula aura” manicure—showcases a seamless blend of blood red and inky black. To create the look, paint red in the middle of a nail/makeup sponge and then paint black around the red. Press on your nails several times, let dry a bit, then repeat until you have opacity. Wipe off the nail polish on your fingers and cover it with a coat of polish.
Although this black nail design is simple to recreate, it makes a big statement. To recreate that look, paint your nails black and then apply one or two coats of smooth silver polish. If you want more color, choose rainbow holographic lighting instead.
Go wild with this edgy black mani, which features both leopard print and solid black nails. Paint two nails a nude color for emphasis, then add misshaped brown dots. Use a fine nail art brush to outline parts of the dot in black. Paint the rest of your nails black and finish with a matte top coat.
