These 30 Black Nail Designs Are All We Want to Wear in 2025 (2025)

At one point, black nails were associated with all things punk, grunge and alternative but, in 2025, dark-hued nail designs are no longer reserved for stereotypes. Instead, modern black nail designs can be elegant and timeless. That's all down to trend-led nail designs now being created with black nail polish, whether its a modern French manicure or some sweet floral nail art. There's a range of finishes and textures to swoon over too, be it a gel manicure, biab, chrome or matte.

The ultimate moody hue, black is opulent, luxurious and utterly chic. It can look put together and polished, vampish and sultry, gothic and grungy, all in the same breath –proving it to be an incredibly versatile colour. The good news is there’s a black nail design to suit each of the nail shapes we see sported most often - whether you're a fan of almond designs or even coffin. Fromclassic French manicures to statement nail art, there's an abundance of ways to go back to black. Here, browse expert-approved designs, get inspired for your next manicure, and find the best black polishes. Read on for more...

Iram Shelton proves that black is back with this modern silver glitter rimmed nail art design. You can create the look at home with a small eyeliner brush… and a very steady hand.

Matte black nails with a glossy black French tip? It’s cool, it’s a classy black nail design. We’ll absolutely be trying this at our next nail appointment.

This nude, whiteand black nail design feels fun, chic and fresh. Combine with long acrylic extensions, or grow out your nails using strengthening BIAB for the best version of this look

Black and gold nail designs (especially with glitter) always make for a winning combination. This look combines French with ombre nails for a dazzling look that leaves us looking towards Christmas manicures. Any excuse, really.

Black, holographic nails with a streak of glittering green is perfect for witchy season. If it’s a look you’d like to get on board with, ensure the sharpest stiletto point for added drama.

Iram Shelton does it again with these short black gel nails – it’s a classic look. And if you fancy switching things up? Black and silver nails work well too.

If more is more is your beauty mantra consider a contrasting pink and black combination that’s sure to reel in the compliments. Diamonds add a Euphoria-esque finish.

Give black nails a fresh spin with this spirally, abstract set. A milky base will made the art pop while lending the look a clean finish.

For a subtle hint of black, look to this ensemble – a chic and minimalist negative space manicure made up of line art. Entirely unique in composition, it's guaranteed to make onlookers double take.

Ultra-feminine and chic, the classic rounded almond shape of this set works to compliment its high-shine, glossy jet back finish.

Inspired by tattoos, this is certainly a fun way to experiment with black nail art designs. Test out variations of your chosen illustration and use a fine brush to perfect the look you desire.

A twist on the classic French mani, this set is giving the Halloween treatment with black tips and cute white spider webs accents.

This gel polish design may look impossibly chic, but with right tools and technique you can achieve a salon finish at home. Grey and black nail designs are an unbeatable combo.

The classic French mani can be given the black nail makeover with a glossy black polish and an uber-shiny top coat.

This retro yet delicate spin on the French manciure uses an alternating reverse mani technique to create an entirely dynamic design.

Chic and sophisticated, this squared-off nail shape accentuated with a negative spaced French style is a modern, geometric take on a classic.

This abstract cow print manages to keep things cute and fun thanks to the playful pops of orange.

These sharp almond nails are finessed with an elegant looking black outline and a central dotting technique. It may look simple enough, but we assume a certain level of expertise will be needed to ace the style.

These perfectly crafted black and white flame nails come with the addition of cleverly concealed hearts which give the popular style a unique edge.

Want a real black nail moment? Look no further than this modern black French mani, bedazzled with black glitter.

Nail pro Iram Shelton created this 'Tuxedo French' look using OPI's nail polishes in 'Lady in Black' and 'Alpine Snow,' as well as a mixed nude base made up of OPI's Nail Polish in 'Bubble Bath' and 'Love Is In The Bare'. Dress to impress.

A textured vibe but with a glossy finish.

Aura nails are reminiscent of the galaxy - so dreamy! If you want to achieve this look, your nail technician will need an airbrush machine. Be sure to ask beforehand to avoid disappointment.

Soft but with a dark twist. If you can’t make the commitment to full black, this is a good pick. They’re press ons, too!

Black, short and to the point.

Who says holiday nails need to be colourful? These feel tropical and fun proving that 3D designs are always a good idea.

Black chrome nails? Punk meets chic. Be sure to seal and cure these properly under a LED lamp, as these are prone to chipping.

Heart French tips? This will reel in the compliments - black and white pair so well together.

A velvety leopard print moment - these are nothing like we’ve seen before, once again proving that the black nail options out there are endless.

Freestyle sets are so fun as you can really make them your own. Top tip - keep your thin brush to hand if you're attempting a DIY job.

Main image credit: Instagram @HarrietWestmoreland, @nails.bab, and @iramshelton