Before we jump to conclusions, let's get one thing straight. I'll never abandon neutral nail colors. Whether it's a classic nude manicure or a pretty, pearl shade we're talking about, I'll admit that neutrals tend to suit any season or situation. I'll also admit that they can elongate the look of my stubby fingers. So, yes, I like them. I'm just not that into them right now.
That's because, lately, I've been having a not-so-subtle love affair with dark nail colors. I'm talking about brooding shades of oxblood red, midnight blue, espresso brown, and inky black. I'm not picky. As long as it's moody and mysterious, I'm in. It's gotten to the point where I haven't touched my neutral nail colors in weeks. They're just sitting in my drawer, collecting dust. And I hate to say it, but that's where they're going to stay for the foreseeable future. Ahead, see 15 nail colors that will convince you to join the dark side (of manicures, that is).
Oxblood Red
Both Who What Wear's beauty director, Erin Jahns, and I agree that this moody red is one for the record books. It has a deep, almost-brown base that suits a variety of skin tones. When it dries down, it has a glassy finish. What more could we ask for from a nail polish?
My fellow beauty editor Shawna Hudson recommends this classic shade from OPI. "I love this deep red/burgundy shade from OPI! It's so classic and really complements darker skin tones," she says.
I'm not kidding when I say this nail polish was love at first swipe. It's so deeply pigmented that I only feel the need to wear one coat of it—okay, two at the most.
Midnight Blue
Dark shades of blue never get old, because they go with everything. This lovely bottle is a longtime favorite.
I can't explain it, but this shade looks collegiate. It's the shade I'd wear if I played my own version of Rory Gilmore attending Yale. (I've thought about this a lot.)
If you want a navy blue nail polish that's French-girl approved, this Dior shade is the one. It's so chic that I feel the urge to tie my hair into a chignon, grab a croissant, and head out onto the streets of Paris.
Espresso Brown
If you want to join the dark side, but you don't want to wear a shade that's so, well, popular, I recommend reaching for dark brown. It feels fresh compared to other options. This formula dries quickly to prevent accidental smudges.
Who What Wear's assistant editor, Maya Thomas, likes another Essie nail polish—this chocolaty shade.
If you want nail polish that's as rich-looking as a dark roast coffee or your favorite chocolate dessert, this Hermès one is it. You can't get more luxurious.
Rich Plum
What can I say about this nail polish that hasn't already been said? One of the most classic and best-selling shades there is, Lincoln Park After Dark just might be the perfect plum ever created. It's so rich and dark that it sometimes veers black or brown or red.
This nail polish is the perfect shade of amethyst.
I have more Butter London nail polishes in my collection than I can count. They're smooth, pigmented, and glossy. Every time I wear one, I get compliments.
Jet Black
Repeat after me: You can never go wrong with black nail polish. I mean, it's a classic for a reason. Depending on how you wear it, it can be sophisticated or grungy, elevated or down-to-earth. This one, from Olive & June, is everything you need and nothing you don't.
For the darkest, inkiest shade of black possible, reach for this bottle. When it says Absolute Black, it means it.
Jahns also recommends this black nail polish from Chanel. Finely milled sparkles float in a black base. It's a classic but with a twist, which is why I consider it to be the rock star of black nail polishes.
-
Calling It: Nail Crowns Will Become the Most Elegant Mani Trend of 2025The chicest people I know are wearing them.
-
Once I Committed These Manicure Tips to Memory, My Nails *Finally* Started Growing—and FastThey've never looked better.
-
It's True! Zendaya Soft-Launched Her Engagement Ring (With a Chic Bridal Mani) at the Golden GlobesIt's all I can think about rn.
-
Eloise at the Plaza Is the OG Coquette Icon—12 Beauty Staples I'm Convinced She'd Use TodayFrom a sparkle-infused hair oil to an oversize velvet bow.
-
According to a Celebrity Nail Artist, the "Dark Feminine" Aesthetic Is Trending for WinterChannel your inner Lana Del Rey.
-
The Exact Nail Polish Selena Gomez Wore for Her Engagement (!) ManicureIt's a bridal staple.
-
According to Instagram, Stylish People Are Only Wearing These Acrylic Nail DesignsBRB, I'm booking my nail appointment.
-
Yep, It's Official: Hailey Bieber's "Sugar Cookie" Nails Are My New Holiday Beauty ObsessionThey're frosty and festive.
