Entering the dark ages

Q) I like the idea of dark, even black, nails, but dont want to look like an emo (I'm in my late twenties, so teen angst doesn't work for me). What polishes should I try? - Natural-nailed member, Luka
A) I hear you. I used to be a nail polish purist too - palest pink on my fingers, with only the classic shades of pink or red on my toes. But life as a beauty editor compels a girl to experiment and, eventually, I even let inky black into my manicure kit. Here's how to ease yourself into the dark ages:
When donning dark polish, remember short is chic - otherwise you risk frightening small children with your scary Elvira Mistress of the Dark-type talons. Also, all dark nail colours show up chips so you could see them from space, so look for a quality varnish (choose a brand that you've used before) and lock it down with a top coat. I like Cutex Quick Dry Top Coat ($6.95).
Try working your way down to black with the other dramatic hues that are big this season. Rich brown is easy to wear and looks stylish. Creative Nail Design's dark chocolate Fedora enamel ($16.95) is velvety and gorgeous. Sumptuous blackberry and wine varnishes are also hip. OPI Lincoln Park After Dark ($19.95) is simply one of the sexiest deep purple shades ever. It's sell-out popular too, so if you see it, snap up two.
Then, when you're ready for black, you can choose from a pure glossy black or something with a little twist. Try Creative Nail Designs Voodoo ($16.95) for a shiny, straight up black or Creative Nail Designs #386 NFS ($16.95) for black with a blue hue. Kit's new Nail Polish in Power Up ($15.95) is a patent black with a steely metallic shimmer. It just landed on my desk the other day and is already my new favourite. It's easy to come to the dark side, Luka. Come to the dark side...
34 Member Comments
The dark the better!
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I really like dark nails, they always look on trend and polished
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it is actually for every age, but just style and shape of the nails have to be more subtle, no more pointy witch like long nails, or those showels, when wearing black and when a bit like me, in very late 30s
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love great smooth pure black polish with good gloss, on short chick nails.
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I love matte black, it's so classy!
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I like this vampy color.
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I love dark nail in winter.
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I don't have the right sort of nails for black or really dark colours.
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I can't pull off this dark nail look either
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I can't pull off nails that are too dark
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I think I have worn every colour nail polish, but apart from when I was at a fancy dress party, dressed as Paul Stanly from KISS (yep we had the other 3 members and even did a little stage/mimed show of a few songs) I have never worn black. It just doesn't suit me for some reason, mind you I think it looks awesome on some of my friends!
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I love dark nails! Any colour, and especially this season with the deep plums and burgundys.... yum!
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Funny looking back at how this was so edgy back then!
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Can't ever imagine me with black eyes, (makeup wise), I did have very black eyes after a fall!!! lips or nails but it does suit some people. If you're one that it does suit, go ahead.
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Black never looks emo unless you pair it with an overall emo look, ie all black clothes, black hair etc.
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I think black can be a bit harsh sometimes, but there are some great super-dark navys and purples that do the trick!
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I love a colour called Ink it's blue black
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i dont really like dark nails
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I have quite pale skin and I think black is a bit too much for me but I love it on other people! although on the very rare occasion I put it on my toes
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I love black it looks chic but different
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I love darknails. I really like OPI Black Chutney or Rimmel Double Espresso.
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i love dark nails =)
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Fabulous advice, I think I'm gonna try it soon :)
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