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Byrdie / Amelia Manley

Theres something to be said about the perfect deep, dark nail color.

What I love the most?

Essie nail polish on a grey background

Byrdie / Amelia Manley

Dark polishes arent just different shades of black.

In fact, theres almost always a moody counterpart to your favorite bright.

To get a gorgeous finish, it takes some special prepping when it comes to dark shades.

Essie Nail Polish in Licorice

Amazon

First, verify your nail beds are clean, free of any polish, and are filed.

The next step, and possibly the most important, is to apply a base coat.

Ready to go dark?

DEBORAH LIPPMANN GEL LAB PRO NAIL COLOR

Nordstrom

Find the best dark nail colors, below.

Think of it like an LBD for your nails.

Price at time of publish:$10

Size:0.46 oz.

China Glaze Nail Lacquer in Star Hopping

A sophisticated version of classic red, this deep burgundy is a winner all on its own.

Juicy, rich, and pigmented, its a best-selling color for a reason.

Price at time of publish:$12

Size:0.5 oz.

OPI Nail Lacquer in Malaga Wine

Byrdie / Lisa Paltuny

Key players include biotin, whichstrengthens nails.

Undertones

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again, undertones matter.

For cool undertones, opt for a blue or purple dark polish.

OPI Malaga Wine on finger nails

Byrdie / Lisa Paltuny

For warm undertones, opt for a dark red or orange polish.

Yes, more than you think.Polishes can varyfrom matte to holographic, creme to magnetic.

Other popular formulas include chrome, glitter, gel, foil, and pearl.

Habit Cosmetics Nail Polish in Creature of the Night

Yes, nail strengtheners can be helpful when needed.

2018;29(4):411-414.

2020;10(1):15-27.

Orly Nail Polish in Air of Mystique

Triple O Nail Polish in Nok

Bernadette Nail Polish in Conflict Diamonds

Butter London Patent Shine 10X Nail Lacquer in Brolly

LeChat Nail Polish in Maroonscape

Zoya Professional Lacquer in Willa

Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Polish in Wild for Violet

Plant Power Nail Polish

SEPHORA