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 of the most beautiful designs. So before spring comes around and bright pastels flood your feeds, scroll through these 13 black nail ideas to try next.
Centered Sparkles
Another perfectly balanced manicure, this one features clean polish on the thumb and pinky fingers with pointed French flanking a single sparkly middle finger.
Gothic Valentine
If you’re not into pinks and reds but still want to feel the love, this black and white version also does the trick.
Galactic Matte
For those astrologically inclined, try this matte look on almond nails—another no-fail shape you’re likely seeing everywhere.
Floral Matte
If your season of choice wavers between winter and spring, try this matte floral design in a neutral palette of black, white, and beige.
Short & Sweet
Nothing beats a classic! These nails were shaped and shortened to just the right length for a clean, glossy polish.
Moody Prints
Nothing makes black polish pop like negative space, especially when alternating between solid lacquer and abstract prints.
Dainty Hearts
Speaking of negative space, it’s also the ideal canvas for sweet little hearts in black, white, and gold.
Chain Link
We love it when goth and glam meet. The silver chain design here adds just the right amount of detail and elongates the extra-pointy nail shape.
Almond Matte
Meet the Jordan almond’s dark, mysterious cousin—so smooth and pretty, you’d almost want to take a bite.
Pantyhose French
You know you see it, too. Tights are a wintertime staple, and this chic polka-dot French manicure channels the same energy.
