Adding white to black will give you grays, and if that’s not the look you’re going for, try mixing it into a clear topcoat instead. This will give you that faded finish without totally changing the color.

Another way to achieve the cool color changing effect is with magnetic polish or cat eye gel polish which creates depth in the nail to give it an ombre look like the black and purple mani here. It takes a bit of practice or a trip to the salon, but it’s worth it IMO.

Here’s a slightly more subtle version of nail polish that changes color, but you still get the overall ombre effect and velvety nail look. From certain angles, the color appears black, but when you move your hand, the color changes to blue or purple.

Gerstein says the easiest way to tinker with the look is to go with a color-changing two-tone polish (like Dare to Wear Metallux Hypnotic by LeChat) which itself creates a shadow effect. “The way it paints on gives you a flawless application because of how the particles are suspended in the formula,” says Gerstein. “It goes on like hairspray versus chunky glitter, so it dries really well.”

Using black nail polish doesn’t mean your manicure has to be moody: this multicolored design is proof that black ombre nails can be fun and sparkly, too.

This dreamy ombré goes from purple to blue to black – that is, all the shades of twilight. Add a twinkle star or two to really set the scene (and also hide any imperfections in your blend).

Instead of blending colors on each nail, create an ombre effect all over the nails for a unique take on the trend that Gerstein calls “Skittle nails.” Start with your darkest bnlack on one finger and use a shade of gray that continuously lightens from finger to finger to create a gorgeous gradient.

Looking for a beginner-friendly technique to try? The sequins are very forgiving and always look great. Find a clear glitter polish and gradually build up layers over a black nail base as you get closer to your cuticle for an easy blend.

The closer your second shade is to black, the more subtle the transition will be. At first glance, these look like simple solid black nails, but on closer inspection, you can see the slight transition to burgundy red nail polish, making it a sultry color duo.

Add metallic accents to the chrome ombre nails to add another cool element to the design. Gold streaks like these are not necessary but serve as an eye-catching pop.

Make your nails look like the night sky with a black to beige ombré base and a layer of silver glitter mixed on top – even better if you also give the glitter a gradient effect.

This stiletto nail shape with a gold, black and white ombre base and a snake print design on top is a well done animal print. With a longer nail that has plenty of room for blending, you can really let the ombre shine.

Combine two nail art trends into one by sporting black ombré on some nails and a black and neutral checkerboard print on others for a powerful shock moment.

Instead of using a glitter top coat, grab a black glitter nail polish that has it all blended in for a more cohesive blend. Play up the feel of the starry sky with a few white twinkling stars on top.

Bright red to black ombré is a classic holiday nail choice because it suits so many different occasions, like Halloween and Valentine’s Day. But if you fancy a vampy design, this works as a vibrant mani look any day of the year.

Pair black nail polish with a light pink for a color combo that offers just the right amount of edge and softness.

As this IG user writes, black and purple ombre nails serve up Disney villain vibes. Rock the mani design on pointed tips to take this effect to the next level.

Another way to channel the night sky is to combine black, gold and super light silver – all in shiny chrome – for your ombré. Top it off with glitter and stars for the ultimate celestial effect.

When you add gold foil to a base of shimmering black and sheer ombré nails, you end up with a brilliantly shiny manicure.

This intricate design uses the ombre effect to create a smoky effect, complete with swirling puffs that fade away – it’s so realistic it looks like the nails have actually caught some smoke.

Paint leopard print spots on a black and white ombré for a snow leopard inspired design. Sprinkle the inside of your animal print with shimmering sequins for added texture and shine.