The 7 Best Nail Colors for Deep Skin Tones, According to Experts

Color is a tricky thing. In theory, you can wear any shade of the rainbow that makes you smile. Like red? Why not paint your nails a cheery cherry color? Or maybe you favor blue and embrace various tones from robin’s egg to navy. But when it comes to choosing the most flattering shades, your complexion is your best guide. Like your foundation or favorite red lipstick, the best nail colors for deep skin will be the shades that fit your undertones. Whether you are cool, warm or neutral-toned, having an understanding of these terms can help you find a flattering nail color. That said, you’re not limited. According to Mazz Hanna, CEO of Nailing Hollywood, deep skin tones pair beautifully with a wide range of shades, from rich browns and sheer neutrals to bold reds and warm corals. Ahead, we tapped Hanna and Thea Green, founder of Nails.INC for their insights on the best shades for deep complexions.

Featured Experts

• Thea Green is the founder of Nails.INC
• Mazz Hanna is the CEO of Nailing Hollywood

1 / 7

Espresso

“Brown shades echo the natural tones of darker skin and create an elegant, monochromatic vibe,” says Thea Green, founder of Nails.INC. A cooler dark brown, such as espresso or dark chocolate, adds a nice amount of contrast and depth to your look.

Two to try: Le Mini Macron Espresso ($10), Orly Rooting For You ($10)

2 / 7

Bold Reds

Classic and sophisticated, a bold red manicure always prevails. “Rich reds, especially blue-based, provide a striking contrast against deeper skin,” says Green. Hanna adds that a crisp shade also makes for a vibrant and bold manicure.

Two to try: CHANEL Incendiaire ($33), Côte Candy Apple Red ($18)

3 / 7

Sandy Nudes

Finding the perfect nude polish can be a daunting task for melanated skin. Too light a hue washes you out, while peachy nudes tend to look ashy. However, according to the experts, sand tones are the perfect balance. “They give you a healthy glow while letting your natural nail peek through,” says Hanna.

Two to try: Olive & June Caramel Budino ($9), Nails.INC Turks & Caicos Beach ($9)

4 / 7

Creamsicle

A creamy orange manicure marries the best of both worlds: It’s soft, warm and playful. Hanna adds that while creamsicle is trending, a light cantaloupe hue is another option that has personality and flair.

Two to try: Dazzle Dry Creamsicle Sorbet ($22), ILNP Milk Tea ($13)

 

5 / 7

Milky White

If you’re a fan of the sheer nail trends, you’re in luck. A semi-sheer or transparent white polish fits the aesthetic perfectly and still stands out. Look for polishes that have an icy milk undertone to enhance the effect.

Two to try: J.Hannah Milk ($22), Sundays Nail Polish No. 01 ($13)

6 / 7

Gold

“Metallic polishes reflect beautifully on darker skin tones and give your manicure a luxe feel,” says Green. Plus, there are tons of shades to choose from. True golds are ideal for a bold look, while bronzes complement warm undertones especially well.

Two to try: Mooncat Demeter’s Harvest ($16), Chillhouse Not Your Princess ($12)

7 / 7

Coral

According to Green, orange tones pop against deeper skin tones and are eye-catching without feeling overly loud. If you’re looking for a color that’s energetic and pretty, she recommends trying a coral or tangerine shade instead of neon orange.

Two to try: Manucurist Coral Reef ($14), Londontown Flashback ($16)