I've Done the Research—These Are the Best Black Nail Polishes to Try This Season

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(Image credit: @Imarninails)

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.

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(Image credit: @BETINA_GOLDSTEIN)

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”. 

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(Image credit: @ataowaji for WHOWHATWEAR)

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

2. Nails Inc Total Blackout Ultimate Black Nail Polish

3. Beauty Pie Wondercolour™ Nail Polish in Amulet

4. OPI Infinite Shine Long-Wear Nail Polish - Lady in Black 

5. Manucurist Green Flash Varnish - Licorice

6.Chanel Le Vernis Longwear Nail Colour 

7.Essie Nail Polish - 88 Licorice 

8. Palette London Liquorice Noir Nail Paint 

Shop More Manicure Essentials:

1.Farmacy Beauty Honey Savior All-In-One Skin Repair 

2. Dashl Vegan Nail Oil

3. Tweezerman Nail Rescue Kit

4. Dior Abricot Nail Cream

Next Up: I'm Not a Betting Woman, but I'm Certain This Nail Colour Will Dominate Autumn

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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.