When it comes to nail polish shades [1], the options available on the market are endless, which is why picking out a colour at a nail salon or beauty supply store often feels like a job in itself. The good news for people with dark skin is that there's not a nail hue that won't look amazing. In fact, even the boldest of shades have the ability to pop on deeper skin tones. We're talking bright yellows, shimmery metallics, and stark whites — the higher the pigment punch, the better.
In case you're wondering what exactly these colours look like, we rounded up a few of our favourites. Read ahead to check out which nail polish colours [2] look especially great on dark skin.
25th & June Nail Elixir in Magical as F*ck
Yellow is such a bold colour, and it pops beautifully on dark skin. The feeling that you'll get from wearing 25th & June Nail Elixir in Magical as F*ck [3] ($12) is all in the name.
Essie Nail Polish in Kaf-Tan
You can never go wrong with a subtle, earthy colour, especially one like Essie Nail Polish in Kaf-Tan [4] ($9).
Pear Nova Gel Polish in Peariwinkle
Pear Nova Gel Polish in Peariwinkle [5] ($15, originally $19) isn't just a beautiful colour, it's also super serene and subtle enough for you to want to wear through any season.
Mented Cosmetics Nail Polish in Brown & Bougie
Mented Cosmetics Nail Polish in Brown & Bougie [6] ($8) should be your go-to if you want to add some colour to your nails while also keeping things neutral.
Polish & Co. Nail Polish in Between Me & U
Every person should have a bold red — like this Polish & Co. Nail Polish in Between Me & U [7] ($12) — in their polish collection.
Nails Inc. Gel Effect Nail Polish in Uptown
Nails Inc. Gel Effect Nail Polish in Uptown [8] ($15) is a dusty colour that's slightly darker than a pale pink, but still more subtle than a hot pink.
25th & June Nail Elixir in Calliope
We love a forest green just as much as the next person, but there's nothing like a bright, vibrant colour like 25th & June Nail Elixir in Calliope [9] ($12) to add some fun to any look.
Essie Nail Polish in Worth the Tassel
Essie Nail Polish in Worth the Tassel [10] ($9) is part of the brand's newest collection, and it's described as a "bright and playful" colour that's perfect to wear throughout the summer months.
Butter London Nail Lacquer in Cotton Buds
White nail colours like Butter London Nail Lacquer in Cotton Buds [11] ($18) are about as simplistic as you can get. And if you're ever feeling adventurous, you can always add a tiny pop of colour to really set things off.
Pear Nova Gel Polish in Moss Def
Pear Nova Gel Polish in Moss Def [12] ($19) is a vegan and cruelty-free formula, and it's warm colour pairs perfectly with deeper skin tones.
Nails Inc. Nail Polish in Anti-Social Climber
A nice pale pink like Nails Inc. Nail Polish in Anti-Social Climber [13] ($11) has the potential to look good on anyone, and it comes in handy when you want some colour on your fingers that isn't too loud or attention grabbing.
Orly Breathable Treatment + Colour Nail Polish in Namaste Healthy
Fiery reds aren't the only shades that'll bring out add a little flare to your look; darker hues like Orly Breathable Treatment + Colour Nail Polish in Namaste Healthy [14] ($9) will do the trick as well.
Butter London Nail Lacquer in Seaside
Butter London Nail Lacquer in Seaside [15] ($15) is a gorgeous metallic colour made with a high-quality, quick-drying formula that'll even leave you chip-free for days.