Grunge Nail Polish Colors You Can Wear Now

Time to get dirty.

Jessica Fields
Jessica Fields
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About NewBeauty

Published: Aug 11, 2025

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olive winter cat eye nails — IG: @avrnailswatches

As summer draws to a close, thoughts of fall are starting to trickle in. While some trends feel distinctly connected to the season ahead, grungey manicures can be fitting for now and later. They feature shimmery elements like flecks of metallic glitter and bold colors with deep intensity. However, unlike the glittery looks of summer, they have an edgy and rebellious feel. Take OPI’s Grunge Queen, which elevates a soft black polish with red shimmer, or Orly's Metamorphosis, which fuses teal and copper colors. Like any good nail trend, there’s room for all manicure lovers. Prefer classic to edgy? Chanel’s Rogue Noir is a deep vampy hue that meets in the middle. In short, these shades are the perfect blend of both worlds, think unique hues and equally alluring finishes. Summer may be winding down, but you don’t have to wait for fall to enjoy a cool grunge manicure. Below, you’ll find the best polishes to lean into the trend, no matter where your manicure preferences lie.

1 / 7

OPI Nail Lacquer in Grunge Queen ($10)

A creamy black nail polish reads more vampy than grunge. This option features a semi-sheer formula with red shimmer to give it some edge. One coat delivers a light look, ideal for summer nights. But, build it up with two or three coats, and you have a deliciously dark manicure.

BUY ON BEYOND POLISH - $10

BUY ON ULTA - $12

OPI Nail Lacquer Grunge Queen

2 / 7

Londontown Nail Color in Nightcap ($16)

A pearlescent polish isn't what comes to mind when thinking of a grunge manicure, but for this polish, we'll make an exception. The antique bronze shade has a rustic metallic look that's perfect for minimalists looking to get in on the grunge trend.

BUY ON LONDONTOWN - $16

BUY ON BEYOND POLISH - $16

Londontown Nail Color Nightcap

3 / 7

Olive & June Nail Polish in Spacey ($9)

Tiny flecks of silver give this dark gray polish an edgy feel. The finish is natural, not too shiny or glossy, making it perfect for this trend. To get the full grunge effect, try adding a layer of matte topcoat.

BUY NOW - $9

Olive & June Nail Polish Spacey

4 / 7

Chanel Le Vernis Nail Colour in Rouge Noir ($33)

While there are lots of dark burgundy nail polishes, few hold the power of Chanel's Rouge Noir. The vampy shade manages to be deep and captivating without feeling too moody. It's a classic polish that works for all eras, including grunge.

BUY NOW -$33

Chanel Le Vernis Nail Colour in Rouge Noir ($33)

5 / 7

Orly Nail Lacquer in Metamorphosis ($11)

Orly's Metamorphosis shade is as unique as its name. The deep teal polish has loads of copper shimmer that creates a striking contrast and an alluring manicure. Two layers of a glossy topcoat will enhance the shine and the shade's unique effect.

BUY NOW - $11

Orly Nail Lacquer in Metamorphosis ($11)

Orly Nail Lacquer Metamorphosis

6 / 7

Addiction Tokyo Nail Polish in Blue Hour ($19)

The description of this polish may say sheer navy, but the gray transforms it into a slate and stony hue. Wear it alone or use it to give your classic French manicure a cool grunge twist.

BUY NOW - $19

Addiction Tokyo Nail Polish in Blue Hour ($19)

Addiction Tokyo Blue Hour

7 / 7

Cirque Colors Olive Jelly ($13)

The jelly finish and olive color of this polish are a unique combination. Together, they deliver a cool and edgy vibe that's just as mysterious and chic. Plus, the jelly texture gives your manicure a natural, glossy look.

BUY NOW - $13