Dark manicures always exude elegance—here are 9 nail designs I'll be replicating this season.
When I consider the top nail trends of the season, sheer nail polishes, milky manicures, and soft pink tones come to mind. Yet, as a beauty editor who tracks these trends professionally, I believe that nothing appears as luxurious as a dark nail color. Be it a glossy black, a rich burgundy, or an elegant navy, I consistently receive the most compliments on my nails whenever I choose these traditionally fall shades. Though I have extensively covered these specific polishes before, today I want to focus on dark nail designs. If you're looking to elevate your usual nail style or find a standard manicure too mundane, these nail art creations are certainly worth exploring. They rank among the most stylish autumn nail designs available. In fact, they are so appealing that they’ve persuaded me to set aside my usual black polish and try something new. Curious about which dark nail design I've chosen? Keep reading...
Article continues below: 9 Best Dark Nail Designs to Try in 2025
1. Monochrome Polka Dots
Polka dot nails are trending this season, and this dark color scheme has captured my attention.
How to achieve the look:
A dotting tool is a must for this design.
Essie Nail Polish 88 Licorice: One of my favorite black nail polish shades.
2. Tortoiseshell Print
Brown nails are on-trend, but for a variation, consider a chic tortoiseshell print.
How to achieve the look:
Nails Inc. Keep It Tonal Nail Polish Set: All the shades needed for this nail art.
Mylee Artiste Nail Brush Kit: Though this design can be tricky to do at home, these brushes will simplify the process.
3. Tonal Accents
I adore pairing a matte burgundy polish with glossy burgundy French tips.
How to achieve the look:
Nailberry Noirberry Oxygenated Nail Lacquer: The most elegant burgundy shade.
Use a matte top coat before applying your glossy French tips.
4. Dark French Tips
A subtle method to incorporate dark polish is through a deep French tip design.
How to achieve the look:
Nails Inc. Mani Marker Black: This marker is excellent for creating French tips at home.
Manucurist Nail Art Liner Brush: Or use this ultra-thin brush with your favorite polish to paint your French tips.
5. Reverse French Tips
A reverse French tip adds a playful twist.
How to achieve the look:
Beauty Pie Wondercolour Nail Polish (Hi Ho Silver): Imagine how stunning this silver would look with a dark black base.
Sally Hansen Insta-Dri 1 Stroke-1 Coat-Done! Nail Varnish Clearly Quick: Remember to finish with a clear top coat to protect your nail art.
6. Black Hearts
The glossy finish of this black heart design is irresistibly chic.
How to achieve the look:
OPI Infinite Shine Nail Polish Lady in Black: This polish offers an impossibly glossy finish.
OPI Mirror Shine Top Coat: Pair with this top coat for a professional-looking manicure.
7. Metallic Animal Print
This dark nail design merges two of the season's top trends.
How to achieve the look:
Essie Winter Collection Aprés Chic
Mylee Liner Gel Polish Monochrome Canvas Duo: Designed for more intricate nail art.
8. Matte Finishes
A burgundy polish is always flattering, but a matte top coat adds a trendy edge.
How to achieve the look:
OPI Black Cherry Chutney Nail Polish: A stunning deep purple color.
Finish with a matte top coat like the one from Nails Inc.
9. Chocolate Brown Cat Eye
Cat-eye nails were everywhere last year, and I've already seen this trend resurging this autumn. This dark nail design is sure to garner compliments.
How to achieve the look:
Mylee Cat Eye Gel Nail Polish Spell: For those who enjoy doing gel nails at home, this polish will achieve the look in no time.
Mylee Cat Eye Gel Nail Polish Blood-Moon: Another beautiful autumn shade.
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Dark manicures always exude elegance—here are 9 nail designs I'll be replicating this season.
They are crying out to be brought back to life.