I've Done the Research—These Are the Best Black Nail Polishes to Try This Season
Thanks to the British summer having been filled with a tad more rain than sun, there has never been a better time to lean into beauty trend that errs on the punky, edgy and 90s grungy side of things. I am far from an all-black-everything woman, especially when it comes to my wardrobe, however, when it comes to my nails, inky blacks have become my new go-to.
Black nails have become an unexpected neutral in my manicure rotation. Why, I hear you ask? They are the perfect pairing for just about ever other colour. Pink and black? A gothic barbie. Black and white? Minimalist chic. Whether you're wearing brights and bold colours or neutrals tones, a black mani will just work.
According to Sarah Yuen, Nail Technician at Nail Stories, I am not the only one that has begun to reach for the colour recently. "We’ve definitely seen an uptick in black manicures and nail designs” says Yuen. "It works as a great transitional option for days where summery colours feel too bright and always dries down with a glossy sheen that last for weeks, making it perfect for clients that can’t always get into the salon every two weeks”
And key to a great black nail moment? "A nourishing base coat” explains Yuen. "That way you can wear the polish without worrying about discolouration or it bleeding into lighter colours on a french manicure for example”.
From deep onyx like lacquers and to a metallic infused dark hue favoured by famed nail artists like Betina Goldstein, there are so many versions of the shade to choose from ahead of your next manicure appointment. Or if you're not ready to go all in just yet, why not opt for a nail art design that incorporates the hue? Think French tips with a black edge, geometric patterns or even polka dots.
Ready to give it a go? Scroll on to discover the best black nail polished you can shop now.
The Best Black Nail Polishes:
1. Gucci Vernis a Ongles Nail Polish in Crystal Black
A glossy black from Gucci? Sign me up and call me chic.
2. Nails Inc Total Blackout Ultimate Black Nail Polish
We can always rely on Nails Inc to come up with the pigmented goods and their "Blackest BlacK" is no different.
3. Beauty Pie Wondercolour™ Nail Polish in Amulet
Looking for a jewel-like black for your next manicure? Then skincare powerhouse Beauty Pie has you covered.
4. OPI Infinite Shine Long-Wear Nail Polish - Lady in Black
Rather than the lady in red, try becoming (and wearing) lady in black at your next nail appointment.
5. Manucurist Green Flash Varnish - Licorice
For a more permanent edgy black mani option, vegan brand Manucurist's easy to use gel system is perfect.
6.Chanel Le Vernis Longwear Nail Colour
Chanel's blacks will soon be as notable as their reds, mark my words.
7.Essie Nail Polish - 88 Licorice
Any home nail aficionado is bound to both own and love Essie's extensive nail colour offerings, this is your sign to add black to your kit roster.
8. Palette London Liquorice Noir Nail Paint
This indie nail polish brand boast a 70% plant based formula and nail strengthening ingredients, making it the perfect conduit for gothy good.
Shop More Manicure Essentials:
1.Farmacy Beauty Honey Savior All-In-One Skin Repair
Farmacy's healing skin repair salve really is the product that does it all - dry hands, cuticle cuts and everything in-between all soothed by it's natural formula.
2. Dashl Vegan Nail Oil
Keeping your nails shiny and breakage free feels ten times easier with a swipe-able nail oil like this one from Dashl.
3. Tweezerman Nail Rescue Kit
Whether you choose to wear your black nails long or short, this rescue set is sure to keep them looking fresh no matter the length.
4. Dior Abricot Nail Cream
In-between getting this punky nail look, buffing in a small amount of Dior's nail cream will help to keep both stains and breakages at bay.
Next Up: I'm Not a Betting Woman, but I'm Certain This Nail Colour Will Dominate Autumn
Ata-Owaji Victor is a lifestyle and beauty writer and editor whose work has appeared in Refinery29, Elle UK and British Vogue. She has a keen eye for all things Afro haircare (which she frequently samples on her 4C coils), beauty tech and innovation. As someone with combination skin, she's always on the lookout for the latest dewy skin heroes.
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