In case you still associate black nail polish with goth or heavy metal music, this ombre nails look that pays homage to the Milky Way should change your mind. Simply paint on the gradient with grey and black polish, leaving room at the cuticles for a bare nail, then swipe on a colorful glitter polish like Essie Nail Polish, $9, in Set in Stones for your take on a starry night.
If you're feeling particularly artsy and want to reach new heights with your ombre nails, try this chevron-esque spin. Nail artist Cambria Proskine recreates the hazy hues of misty mountains using OPI Nail Lacquer in Alpine Snow and Matte Top Coat, along with black and white acrylic paint (though any matte black and white nail polish will do).
Superstressed at work? These glitter ombre nails are here for you. The color purple is attributed with being calming, and inspires peace and relaxation. Simply swipe on your three favorite purple polishes, and create ombre nails that are your instant antidote for anxiety.
Can't decide which pink polish to wear? We say screw it and rock them all (OK, maybe choose, like, three of your faves; let's not get excessive here). Or if you want to play copycat, nail artist Nadia Alicia created these girly ombre nails using Cult Cosmetics Nail Polish in Hollywood Hills, Belmont Shore and Los Feliz.
Not all ombre nails need to be clean and orderly. Add a touch of rawness to your nail art by highlighting the painterly quality of the nail design. To get this effect, press down on your sponge harder at the ends of your nail and dab lightly towards the top and middle of your sponge. You might also want to skip a second coat for the top colors, and only go in a second time with your darker polish at the tips.
