20 Black Nail Designs That Are Beyond Stunning (2024)

20 Black Nail Designs That Are Beyond Stunning (1)

Once upon a time, black nails were considered to be a grunge beauty choice. Now, we're shown just how beautiful and chic they can be. When the polish choice is combined with trendy designs like French manicures and swirls, or when it's transformed with unexpected finishes, the end result is always eye-catching. To prove it, we rounded up nearly two dozen black nail designs currently trending on social media. No matter your manicure preference, you'll soon learn that black is one polish color that should never be off the table.

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Matte Black Leopard Nails

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Animal print nails are a popular pick, and they're even more alluring when paired with colorblocking and a black, matte finish. Best of all, this type of nail art is pretty simple to DIY. Start by dotting your nails (no need to be super neat with it), then use a fine-lining nail art brush to outline partial edges of the spots. Finish with matte topcoat et voila!

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Minimalist Black and Silver Nails

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If you prefer more minimalist nail art, consider a glossy micro French manicure interspersed with floral accent nails. This is yet another easy-to-DIY nail look. Where OrlyHalf Moon Guides($7) can help create perfectly crisp French tips, dotting tools can make painting flowers easier than ever.

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Gold Lightning Bolt Nails

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For a rocker chic mani, opt for a black and gold color palette. If you don't have a steady hand, you may want to enlist the help of a professional nail artist to recreate this nail art. Another option? Use nail decals—Etsy sells a bunch.

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Black and White Pastel Gradient Grid Nails

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Grid nails had a moment earlier this year so if you'd like to keep the trend rolling, opting for a black base is a way to go. Then, if you love color, too, you can add a gradient stripe here and there for a fun, '90s-inspired pop.

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Matte Black Crystal Nails

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While the solid black nails in this set will be easy to recreate, the magical accents will require notable skill, so go ahead and dial up your nail artist.

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Black Mix-n-Match Nails

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How fun are these black-and-white mix-n-match nails? With French tips, aura accents, and shimmering rhinestones, they're trendy in more ways than one.

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Matte Black Smiley Nails

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These matte black nails remind us of a chalkboard. The happy smiley faces will become a bright spot in your day, trust us.

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Dual-Finish Black French Tips

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Dual-finish French manicures are stunning, no matter what color you craft them with. Here, you can see how going darker doesn't take away from the nail look; it adds to it.

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Black Glitter Swirl Nails

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Swirl nails remain a popular request this year. When opting for black swirls, consider glamming it up with glitter while you're at it.

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Black Opal Heart Nails

Black nail designs don't always require black bases. Sometimes, a sheer, shimmery base with black nail art is the way to go. Case in point? These pretty heart-dotted nails.

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Translucent Black Heart Nails

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Speaking of hearts and sheer nails, this jelly mani is cute, moody, and romantic all at once (the perfect gothic Valentine's look). Nail artist Dayanna I. Sapiens created the manicure using Cirque Colours Nail Polish ($13) in the shades Memento Mori and NSFW Jelly.

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Black Star Nails

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If you're not one for hearts, there's also the option of glossy black stars. We love that these are dotted with shiny rhinestones, too.

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Black Moon and Star Nails

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These long almond-shaped nails are even more magical with their black base and white astrology nail art. Nail artist Brittney Boyce created them for Megan Fox.

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Matte Black and White Scratch Nails

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Looking for a manicure that's easy to DIY? This matte black and white scratch nail idea is worth giving a whirl. Simply stick to solid coats for the black nails, then top off neutral nails with swatches of color as you see fit.

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Black Glitch Checker Nails

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How trippy are these black and white checker nails? Just looking at them makes us have to refocus, so we'd guess that you may want to book a nail appointment to bring these tips to life.

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Black and White Aura Nails

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Aura nails remain one of the most popular nail trends of the year. Here, you can see how black and white aura nails look. Dig it? You can recreate the look with a black base sponged with a white center.

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Black Grid Nails

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Grid nails don't require a solid base. With a clear base, the black lines can almost look like fishnets. If you add rhinestones, it only amps up the sex appeal.

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Black Jelly Nails

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A black jelly base topped off with solid black criss-cross stripes makes for a manicure that looks like a gift. You'll need a steady hand and a fine-lining nail art brush to DIY the look. You can also use thin nail tape as a guide for each stripe.

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Glossy Black and Gold Nails

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These ultra-glossy black and gold nails are nothing short of show-stopping. The trick to achieving such a stellar finish is to use a high-shine top coat, like the OPIInfinite Shine 3 ProStay Gloss($14).

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Black Grunge Ombre Nails

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We love an easy yet gorgeous nail look, and this black grunge ombre mani is just that. All you'll need to recreate it is a sponge, black polish, a sheer neutral base, and a glossy top coat. You may also want a touch-up brush to clean up the edges of your nails for a picture-perfect end look.

10 Dark Red Nail Ideas for a Moody Manicure

20 Black Nail Designs That Are Beyond Stunning (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 hottest nail trend? ›

Business Insider asked three nail professionals about trends that are in and out for 2024. Brown nails, simple rhinestone designs, and metallic finishes seem to be rising in popularity. On the other hand, jelly nails and long acrylic manicures are being replaced by minimalist trends.

Can black nails look classy? ›

It's safe to say black is a color that will never go out of style. It's undoubtedly one of the most classy and timeless colors, especially for nails. And it can look stunning with any skin complexion, outfit, and occasion. You won't have to worry about matching your manicure with your clothes.

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.

What does black nails mean on a guy? ›

Since society generally sees painted nails as a feminine accessory, a man with a manicure definitely goes against the grain and makes a nonconformist statement. Black represents strength, confidence, and power—a perfect color for a man who wants to project his status as “outside of the rules.”

Are black nails still in style? ›

Once upon a time, black nails were considered to be a grunge beauty choice. Now, we're shown just how beautiful and chic they can be. When the polish choice is combined with trendy designs like French manicures and swirls, or when it's transformed with unexpected finishes, the end result is always eye-catching.

What is the new nail color for 2024? ›

Bright, saturated shades will have their place in 2024, each with a pop-art infusion that makes the palette feel fresh. Goldstein expects a want of bold primary colors like cobalt blue, mustard yellow, and scarlet red, while Choi predicts vibrant wildflower hues like fuchsias and oranges.

What nails do guys find hot? ›

The answer to this question can vary depending on personal preferences, but generally, guys tend to like natural or classic colors for nails. This includes shades like nude, light pink, and red. These colors give off a clean and put-together look that is attractive to many guys.

What is the popular nail color in 2024? ›

"I think a clean, natural nail look will be popular in 2024." We'll be seeing variations of neutral shades, like sandy beiges, light pinks, and deep browns, which of course, TikTokers have deemed as "chocolate milk nails."

Are black nails attractive to guys? ›

Nail design: Men like these colors

Red conveys a direct attraction and is associated with sensuality and erotic interest. Black, one of the favorite colors, is considered particularly trendy and is therefore also associated with attractiveness.

Are black nails unprofessional? ›

In some industries, such as fashion or creative fields, black nail polish may be seen as a trendy and acceptable choice. However, in more traditional or conservative industries, it may be considered unprofessional or even against the dress code.

Do dark nails make you look older? ›

Avoid Dark Colors: Dark colors, such as deep reds, purples, or blacks, can draw attention to imperfections and make hands appear older. It's best to steer clear of these shades if you want to achieve a more youthful look.

What does painting your finger nails black mean? ›

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. It can be seen as a symbol of rebellion, individuality, or nonconformity.

Is black nail polish popular? ›

Versatility at Its Best: The Many Faces of Black Nail Polish

One of the primary reasons for the enduring popularity of black nail polish is its versatility. Whether you're going for a chic, minimalist look or a bold, edgy vibe, black fits the bill.

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.

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 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.

What nail color is on trend right now? ›

Vibrant Neons: Neon nail polish shades are all the rage in 2024. These bold and eye-catching colors add a pop of excitement to any manicure, making them a favorite choice for those who want to make a statement with their nails. Pastel Hues: Soft and delicate pastel nail polish colors are also trending this year.

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