At what point did black nail polish go from anti-establishment punk rock to mainstream celeb must-have? Perhaps it was when the likes of Lindsay Lohan, Jessica Simpson and Nicole Richie started being snapped out and about in Hollywood with black nails? Or maybe when Marilyn Manson or David Beckham tried it out? It’s true, trendsetter David Beckham has been known to get a black manicure from time to time. It’s one of the few colours that can be worn by male and females alike - from punk and rock musicians to jewel clad starlets at award shows and photo shoots.
It is believed that black nail polish was first used in Ancient China and reserved to be worn only by royalty. The next spotting was in the early 1970’s on famous music icons like – Freddie Mercury of Queen (wearing it only on one hand), KISS and David Bowie. With huge audience followings, fans began to mimic their idols and the demand became significant enough for a few independent cosmetic companies to begin adding it to their line-up.
In the mid-90s, Marilyn Manson came onto the music scene with his black nails and white eye contacts, while the freakish looking eyes did not catch-on (and I’m somewhat relieved), the black onyx black nails were adopted by many people wanting to make a statement.
By the end of the decade, the fashion and cosmetic industry took note and in 1999 Gucci featured models wearing black nails in their advertising. The years to follow would take the trend of black nail polish from being a taboo necessity for punk fans and goths to a must-have commodity for pretty much everyone. Today, almost all polish lines now hold a spot for black and black-inspired shades in their collection.
In my research I looked at select black nail polishes on the market and developed this guide to find the best lacquer for you.
OPI Midnight in Moscow
$11.95 CDN
Stars: 3 out of 5
The best of both worlds when deciding between a black and a red. Depending on the lighting, this OPI polish can accomplish either. A black base with a dominant red shimmer – this colour is best on longer nails. This polish requires minimum 2 layers in order to accomplish the ideal effect.
OPI Russian Navy
$11.95 CDN
Stars: 2 out of 5
A youthful colour by OPI, this intense navy blue shade competes with the blacks as well as purples tones. This colour is more casual and less red-carpet. It’s fun and looks as good on toes as it does on
fingers.
OPI Linkin Park at Midnight
$11.95 CDN
Stars: 4 out of 5
One of my personal favourites, this colour has it all. At first glance, this polish appears black but is actually a deep purple with a hint of sparkle. The rougher surface helps prevent chips. This shade looks amazing on fair or pinkish toned skin and is not to be confused with the flat deep purple “Linkin Park at Night.” It is much more stylish and sexy!
Chanel Black Satin
$25 CDN
Stars: 5 out of 5
This true-black product gets an A+ for coverage and definition. It provides a classic look and makes a statement. It is the best of the best solutions for all skin-types. Celebs have created a great demand for this product. Stars such as Lindsay Lohan and Mary-Kate Olsen have been snapped wearing it!
Some additional tips to achieve the classic black look:
- When applying polish to nails, keep a small space between nail and cuticle. This prevents polish from staining the skin around the nail bed.
- It is best to buff nails prior to applying the base coat. If the surface is bumpy it will show through the polish.
- Adding a glossy top coat makes the nails appear classy and party-ready.
- Black-inspired nails often look best on shorter square-shaped nails.
- Dark nail polish attracts attention and acts as its own accessory – wear simple jewelry as not to ruin the look.