If you ask us, the transition from summer to fall is the most exciting time of year. Hear us out: humidity is basically non-existent, you can sip hot coffee without sweating up a storm, and rather than wearing as little as possible to keep from overheating, you get to pile on all the blanket-like sweaters, trendy jackets, and cool coats as you darn well please.
Another obvious plus? Getting to switch your go-to nude nail polish for something deeper, darker, and moodier. It's an incredibly easy swap to make, but it's one of those things that makes a huge impact and can instantly get you into that autumnal state of mind. With that, we scoured the internet in search of the most popular dark nail colors out there right now. From mossy greens and almost-black blues to an ever-so-classic merlot, look no further than the 10 shades below for your next salon or at-home manicure.
How We Found The Best Dark Nail Polishes
As with all of our Top 10 lists, we used our ultra-smart algorithm to round up this selection of top-trending dark nail colors. This proprietary tool finds the best products on the market by factoring in data from best-seller lists, reviews, social buzz, and even recommendations from top publications and beauty editors. Ahead, find our official guide to the most in-demand dark nail colors you can buy and wear right now.
October 25, 2024
Written By:Naomi Venerable
Product Expert:Georgia Jones
Top 10 Lists serve as unbiased shopping guides to the most trusted product recommendations on the internet. Products are scored and ranked using an algorithm backed by data consumers find most valuable when making a purchase. We are reader-supported and may earn a commission when you shop through our links.
The Rankings
Chanel Le Vernis Longwear Nail Color In Le Diable
Overall Score
4.2
10
Chanel Le Vernis Longwear Nail Color In Le Diable
4.31
342 User Reviews
2.8
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Long-Lasting Dark Nail Polish
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
Chanel's Le Diable is a long-lasting classic black nail polish that not only delivers a glossy, lacquered finish but also strengthens nails with each application. Enriched with bioceramics and ceramides, it provides deep care to improve nail quality over time, setting it apart from typical polishes.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
The formula is designed with carefully selected pigments for smooth, even coverage and a dramatic, high-shine look.
Cruelty Free
Londontown Lakur Nail Color In Vibe
Overall Score
4.3
09
Londontown Lakur Nail Color In Vibe
4.39
674 User Reviews
2.9
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Dark Jade Green Nail Polish
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
This jade green nail polish stands out for its high-impact color and gel-like shine. Its breathable, chip-resistant formula offers a perfect balance of strength and moisturization. It is also clean, cruelty-free, and crafted with professional-level technology.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
The polish is 21+ free, meaning it's formulated without harmful ingredients like formaldehyde, toluene, and parabens. It features a pro-contour brush for effortless, smooth application and provides a flawless, smooth, and self-leveling finish in just one or two coats.
Eco Friendly
Cruelty Free
Dior Vernis Nail Polish In Nuit 1947
Overall Score
4.35
08
Dior Vernis Nail Polish In Nuit 1947
4.72
28 User Reviews
2.3
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Dark Burgundy Nail Polish
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
Infused with floral extracts, the Dior Vernis nail polish collection delivers a highly pigmented color and a gel-effect hold while protecting nails for long-lasting wear. The shade Nuit 1947 is a vampy red with purple undertones, perfect for achieving a moody manicure with just two coats.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
The Dior Vernis nail polish collection includes a range of colors inspired by timeless couture pieces and the latest creations from the House of Dior.
Essie Gel Couture Nail Polish In Caviar Bar
Overall Score
4.45
07
Essie Gel Couture Nail Polish In Caviar Bar
4.49
6243 User Reviews
3.3
Best Seller
5
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Dark Blue Nail Polish
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
Essie's Gel Couture Nail Polish in Caviar Bar is a cool-toned, deep navy hue that stands out as a bold alternative to the usual dark shades of black and brown, making it a true conversation starter.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
Essie Gel Couture offers a chip-resistant, salon-quality color with a gel-like shine in just two steps—no UV lamp needed. Simply apply two coats of Gel Couture color to clean bare nails and follow up with one coat of Gel Couture top coat for a glossy finish.
Essie Nail Polish In Bordeaux
Overall Score
4.55
06
Essie Nail Polish In Bordeaux
4.5
8533 User Reviews
3.3
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Dark Red Nail Polish
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
Is your nail polish collection truly complete without a classic wine shade? Essie’s Bordeaux is a deep burgundy that offers a sophisticated twist on red—juicy, rich, and intensely pigmented, it's a best-seller for a reason.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
This Essie polish offers salon-quality coverage and a glossy finish, thanks to the exclusive easy-glide brush for quick, even application.
Olive & June Nail Polish In E+M
Overall Score
4.6
05
Olive & June Nail Polish In E+M
4.59
771 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Gel-Like Dark Nail Polish
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
E+M is Olive & June's darkest shade. The long-lasting, highly pigmented deep black shade is designed to look good on any skin tone and offers a deep, moody color that goes with anything.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
Like all Olive & June products, this nail polish formula is cruelty-free, vegan, and free of 15 harmful, toxic ingredients.
Cruelty Free
Essie Nail Polish In Off Tropic
Overall Score
4.7
04
Essie Nail Polish In Off Tropic
4.54
21439 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Dark Hunter Green Nail Polish
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
Over the obvious dark shades of burgundy, black, and deep blue? This enchanting forest green is a fresh alternative that still evokes all the winter feels—think scenic drives and premature Christmas decor.
PROMISING REVIEW
"I put on Off Tropic the day that it came in the mail and fell in love. I love the darkness of the polish but it is still a distinct green. [...] It is gorgeous. I got compliments on my nails all day long. Definitely one of my top five favorite Essie colors."
Olive & June Nail Polish In CN
Overall Score
4.75
03
Olive & June Nail Polish In CN
4.8
161 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Dark Brown Nail Polish
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
A rich chocolate brown shade is a must-have for every fall and winter nail polish collection. This sultry, dark hue brings chic, moody vibes that perfectly match the season, and CN from Olive and June promises up to 10 days of wear, so you can enjoy this chocolatey shade for more than a week at a time.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
While this polish delivers a gel-like finish, no lamp is required, and it's super easy to remove with nail polish remover.
OPI Nail Lacquer In Black Onyx
Overall Score
4.75
02
OPI Nail Lacquer In Black Onyx
4.66
18779 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Dark Black Nail Polish
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
The nail polish equivalent to a classic LBD, Black Onyx is one of the blackest shades around. It's also made without DBP, toluene, or formaldehyde, so you can feel pretty good about swiping it on.
PROMISING REVIEW
“I think the best nail polish is OPI polish. For those of you looking for a high-gloss black that lasts and lasts, nothing beats this. It goes on like a dream and looks like black glass on my nails.”
OPI Nail Lacquer In Lincoln Park After Dark
Overall Score
4.75
01
OPI Nail Lacquer In Lincoln Park After Dark
4.67
30553 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Dark Nail Polish Overall
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
Is it purple? Is it black? Regardless, no list of the best dark nail colors would be complete without this cult-classic, shade-shifting OPI polish. The epitome of rich and dramatic manis, Lincoln Park After Dark is one of the most unique, compliment-inducing hues out there.
PROMISING REVIEW
"I had this polish applied during a pedicure and loved it so much that I had to get my own. It's richly dark in just one application. I've worn it on my fingernails for over a week, and, despite washing dishes and practically living in the pool, it hasn't chipped or shown any wear yet."
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