When I think of the biggest nail trends of the season, I think of sheer nail polishes, milky manicure designs and soft pink shades. However, as a beauty editor who studies these trends for a living, I don't think anything looks as expensive as a dark nail colour. Whether it's a glossy black hue, a deep burgundy, or a chic navy nail shade, I always get the most compliments on my manicure whenever I opt for these typically autumnal colours.
I've written about these particular nail polishes in extensive detail, but today, I'm here to talk about dark nail designs. Whether you want to take your usual nail look to the next level or simply find a standard manicure a little bit boring, you'll definitely want to check out these nail art looks.
These are, hands down, some of the chicest autumn nails out there. In fact, they are so good that they've convinced me to ditch my usual black nail polish and give something different a go. Intrigued to know which dark nail design I'm going for? Just keep on scrolling...
9 Best Dark Nail Designs to Try in 2025
1. Monochrome Polka Dots
Polka dot nails are big news this season, and this dark colour combination has me sold.
Get the Look:
A dotting tool is essential for this kind of look.
One of my favourite black nail polish shades.
2. Tortoiseshell Print
Brown nails are in, but if you want something a bit different, why not opt for a stylish tortoiseshell print?
Get the Look:
All the colours you need to create this nail art design.
Although this design can be harder to do at home, these nail brushes will make your job a whole lot easier.
3. Tonal Accents
I love the idea of pairing a matte burgundy polish with glossy burgundy French tips.
Get the Look:
The most sophisticated burgundy shade.
Use a matte top coat before painting on your glossy French tips.
4. Dark French Tips
A subtle way to incorporate a dark nail polish into your manicure is by opting for a deep French-tip design.
Get the Look:
A mani marker is great for doing French tips at home.
Or use this super thin nail brush and your favourite polish to paint your French tip on.
5. Reverse French Tips
A reverse French tip is also super fun.
Get the Look:
Price shown is members' price.
How stunning would this silver shade look with a dark black hue?
Don't forget to seal your nail art in with a clear top coat.
6. Black Hearts
The glossy finish makes this black heart design look so chic.
Get the Look:
This black nail polish is impossibly glossy.
Pair with this top coat and you've got a salon-worthy manicure.
7. Metallic Animal Print
This dark nail design combines two of this season's biggest trends.
Get the Look:
Such a statement.
These gel polishes have been designed with more intricate nail art in mind.
8. Matte Finishes
A burgundy nail polish always looks good, but a matte top coat immediately gives a cool-girl finish.
Get the Look:
A gorgeous deep purple hue.
Finish your look off with a matte top coat like this one from Nails Inc.
9. Chocolate Brown Cat Eye
Cat-eye nails were everywhere this time last year, and I've already spotted the trend on multiple people this autumn. This is the kind of dark nail design that is bound to earn you compliments.
Get the Look:
If you like doing gel nails at home, this Mylee polish will create the above look in seconds.
Another stunning autumnal shade.
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