11 Dark Summer Nails Ideas for a Moody Manicure

Looking for a new way to wear dark nails in summer? It’s time to embrace a gothic look with a manicure that is both spooky and elegant. Whether you like your manicures intricately crafted or pretty and minimal, there’s sure to be a look for you on this list of ravishing dark nail ideas.

Nail Art in Black and White

close up of a woman’s hand with black and white striped nails on a yellow background

This hypnotic black and white manicure will have you spellbinding everyone who looks at them–and the vibrant yellow accent nails keep things fresh. If you’re on the hunt for nail art that is subtle yet quirky, this fun summer manicure could be just the thing.

Black Minimalist Nail Art

close up of a woman’s hand with two black nails and two nails with black squares on the tips

A manicure that incorporates black in patterns like geometric shapes or stripes is a bold, modern take on black nail polish. This would make an amazing cybergoth manicure, especially if you include a barcode look with nail stencils.

Nail Designs in Black and Gold

a woman’s hands holding a mug with black nails and one glittery gold nail on the ring finger

A black manicure with gold accents adds a sophisticated touch for a formal occasion, or dresses up a casual summer outfit with ease. Whether you go for a single gold accent nail or delicate nail art in a filigree or curlicue pattern, this combo is one you’ll return to again and again.

Dark Red Nails

a smiling woman holding up her long red nails close to the camera

For a look that is dark and romantic, nothing says “my bloody valentine” like dark red nail polish. Try long stiletto or coffin nails for a vampiric vibe.

Black Line Art Manicure

close up of a hand with short white painted nails with black designs of moons, eyes, and lips drawn on

This adorable and quirky manicure is also super wearable. Black line art on a white background (or vice versa) creates a classic contrast that is also fun and unique. Unleash your creativity with a set of nail pens.

Whimsigoth Nail Art

close up of dark green nails with leaf accents painted on the ring finger nail

This dark green nail art with dainty leaves is the perfect fairytale manicure for a whimsigoth aesthetic. Pairs beautifully with muted earth tones like brown and purple for a foray into fairy grunge fashion.

Nail Designs 2024 Black

Black nails are always a classic gothic manicure, but if you’re looking for ways to freshen up your look, here are a few ways to update your nails:

Matte Black Nail Color

a woman holding an open book and a white flower in her lap with long matte black nails

2024’s hottest nail trend involves banishing shine in favor of deep, dark matte nails. Contrasting textures give this subtle look a gothic edge. Charcoal matte pairs beautifully with white nail art, gold, and even crimson for a bloody good mani. Try Atomic Matte Black Nail Polish and become a creature of shadows.

Black and Blue Nails

close up of a woman’s hand with blue nail polish and black sparkles

For an interesting twist on an all-black manicure, try adding midnight blue accents to give your nails a nightshade twist. Stars, moons, and subtle nail glitter would add a touch of magic.

Gothic Letters Manicure

a woman covering her face with her hands with long black nails with white gothic letters on them

Bold, ornate gothic text in white really pops on a background of black nail polish. A perfect subtle goth manicure for when you want to avoid more obvious designs like bats and cobwebs. Spell out a phrase like LIVE FREE, HOLD FAST, WITCHCRAFT, or LOVE & DEATH to express your inner darkness.

Iridescent Black Nails

If matte isn’t your thing, dial up the drama with these black iridescent nails for a hint of shimmer that changes as you move. Almond nails add a polished look with lots of surface area to show off that sparkle.

Short Black Manicure

a woman’s folded hands with short nails and black polish

You don’t need elongated claws to pull off a black manicure–black nail polish is perfectly elegant no matter what length your nails are. If you want to go au naturel instead of wearing artificial nails, a coat of black polish is quick and easy, and it goes with literally everything in your closet.

These fresh and fabulous goth manicures are just the dark nail inspo you need to try a new look. Whether you want to head to the nail salon or DIY the manicure of your dreams (and nightmares), these gothic summer nails ideas should help you revamp those talons.