Nail polish colors are not one size fits all. Just like your clothing, the colors you choose for your nails should be based on your skin tone. And if you have dark skin, that means you have a whole world of beautiful shades to choose from!
Whether you’re looking for a classic red or something a little more daring, we’ve rounded up the best nail polish colors for dark skin. From rich jewel tones to pretty pinks, scroll down to see our top picks.
Table of Contents
Best Nail Polish Colors for Dark Skin
There are a range of colors that look great on dark skin, from classic reds to bright pinks. Here are our top picks for the best nail polish colors for dark skin:
Jewel Tones
Dark skin looks gorgeous with deep purple, green, and blue jewel tones. These colors are rich and dramatic, and they make a statement. If you’re looking for a classic nail color that will never go out of style, a jewel tone is a great option.
Sapphire and turquoise blue are stunning colors for dark skin. Their deep, rich hues compliment darker skin tones and make nails pop. These blue nail polishes are long-lasting and chip resistant. Whether you’re looking for a new color to add to your collection or want to try something different, blue is a great option.
If you’re looking for a yellow nail polish that will complement your dark skin tone, then citrine yellow is a great option. This shade is bright and cheery, but not too overwhelming, and it looks especially beautiful against dark skin.
To get the perfect citrine yellow manicure, start by applying a base coat to your nails to help the polish last longer. Then, apply two coats of citrine yellow polish, allowing each coat to dry completely before moving on to the next. Finally, finish with a top coat for extra shine and protection.
Whether you’re wearing citrine yellow as an accent nail or going for a full yellow manicure, this shade is sure to make your nails stand out. So why not give it a try?
Muted green nail polish is the perfect way to add a touch of sophistication to your look without going over the top. This shade is perfect for dark skin tones and can be worn year-round. Not sure what green shade to go with? We love Essie’s “Mint Candy Apple” for a light green option and OPI’s “Lincoln Park After Dark” for a dark green option. Whether you’re rocking this shade at the office or on a night out, you’re sure to turn heads with your muted green nails!
Pretty pinks
If you’re looking for a feminine and flirty nail color, pretty pink is a great option. Pink looks beautiful on dark skin, and it’s a versatile shade that can be worn year-round. From light pastel pinks to deep fuchsia, there are tons of pretty pink nail polish colors to choose from.
Baby pink nail polish color is one of the most popular colors for dark skin. It is a versatile color that can be worn with any outfit and any occasion. Baby pink nail polish color is also a great choice for those who want to experiment with their nails and try out new colors.
Bold and bright
Dark skin can handle bold and bright colors like orange, yellow, and red. These colors are attention-grabbing and fun, and they’re perfect for summertime. If you’re feeling adventurous, go for a bright and bold shade next time you polish your nails.
There’s something about a bright yellow nail polish that just screams summertime. Whether you’re rocking a sunshine-inspired mani, this cheerful hue is the perfect way to add a touch of fun to your look.
But if you have dark skin, you may be wondering if yellow polish is the right choice for you. Here’s the thing: yellow looks gorgeous on dark skin tones. Whether you have a deep complexion or a rich, caramel-hued skin tone, this cheerful color will complement your skin beautifully. And, because yellow is such a bold hue, it’s the perfect way to make a statement with your nails.
If you’re looking for a pumpkin orange nail polish that will look great on dark skin, you’ve come to the right place! This fall-inspired shade is the perfect way to add a pop of color to your nails, and it’s also perfect for Halloween! Whether you’re looking for a traditional orange shade or something a little bit more unique, this shade from Essie is the perfect pumpkin orange shade for dark skin. It’s a traditional orange color with a touch of gold, and it’s sure to make your nails stand out.
Neutrals
Neutral nail colors like beige, nude, and grey are timeless and chic. They’re perfect for everyday wear, and they go with everything. If you’re looking for a low-maintenance nail color that you can wear daily, a neutral shade is a great option. No matter what color you choose, dark skin looks beautiful with any shade of neutral polish. So go ahead and experiment with different colors until you find your perfect match.
If you’re looking for a summer nail trend that’s both unique and flattering, try white nail polish on dark skin. This bold look is surprisingly easy to wear, and it’s a great way to show off your personality.
To pull off the white nail polish look, start by choosing a shade that’s opaque. You don’t want anything too sheer or chalky, as it will look unnatural. Once you’ve found the perfect white, apply it to your nails using a steady hand.
If you’re worried about the polish looking too stark, try pairing it with a nude or light pink. This will help to soften the overall look and make it more wearable. Finally, be sure to add a top coat of clear polish to seal in your color and protect your nails. With a little bit of care, you’ll be able to enjoy your white nail polish for weeks to come.
There are many different colors of nail polish that can look great on dark skin, but some of the best colors to try are deep reds, burgundy, plum, chocolate brown, and navy blue. If you want to experiment with lighter colors, pale pink, light purple, and beige can also look lovely.