27 Dark Academia Nails For A Gorgeous Aesthetic
Dark academia nails are the perfect look to complement a magical world of classic books, stylish outfits, and love of learning.
From burgundy and navy blue to forest green and a touch of shimmering gold, dark academia nail designs help to immerse yourself in the rich colors that celebrate your love for this aesthetic.
Whether you’re searching for something simple like a French manicure with a twist, or something fun that retains the allure of classic literature, the dark academia nails in this guide will give you inspiration for your manicure.
Are you ready? Let’s dive in!
How To Bring Dark Academia to Your Nails
Here are some dark academia nails ideas to help you achieve the aesthetic.
Dark academia nails short
Short nails are perfect for this style since dark Academia is characterized by muted and deep colors. Opt for shades like burgundy, forest green, navy blue, dark brown, and rich neutrals like taupe and beige.


Get a similar look with Chanel Nail Polish in Rouge Noir



Try this yourself with Opi Suzi and The Arctic Fox
Subtle gold accents like gold leaf or glitter accentuate your nails with a touch of luxe. If you don’t like painting your nails solely one color, then keep your nails in elegant shapes, such as rounded or square, and adorn them with minimalist accents like a dark Academia-inspired accent nail.
Dark academia nails simple
Keep your dark academia nails simple by choosing moody and mysterious colors like dark purples, navy blue, and a range of brown tones.
Vampy nails can also be a stunning addition to the dark academia aesthetic. Vampy nails typically feature deep, dark colors, such as rich reds, dark purples, and deep burgundies. If you want to add an air of intrigue to your nails, try gold detailing, dark textured glitter, accent nails with glitter or ombre, or try tortoiseshell nails.





To achieve these dark academia nails, choose a base color like dark navy or deep purple and opt for a glossy finish to add a touch of allure and drama. Then you can add glitter or gold detailing.
Dark academia nails easy
Dark academia aesthetics often lean towards a more minimalistic approach. If you want to avoid overly busy designs and opt for more understated elegance, use brown, red or nude tones.





Consider using nail art decals or using different nail polish shades to create depth and complexity in your design.
A colored French manicure can also work beautifully with the dark academia aesthetic, adding a contemporary twist to the classic and sophisticated look. While the traditional French manicure features a pale pink or nude base with white tips, you can adapt it to suit the dark academia style by using deeper and more mysterious colors.
Dark academia nails coffin
While coffin shaped nails are not typical of the dark academia style, there are no rules when it comes to nail art or makeup.
On coffin-shaped nails, embrace the dark academia aesthetic with a touch of drama and elegance. Play with the rich color palette, opting for deep hues like black, dark grey, and deep reds, accentuating their allure with a glossy finish.




Subtle gold jewelry adds a hint of opulence to complement your nails, elevating the look to a new level of sophistication.
Dark academia nails acrylic
Dark academia nails in acrylic offer a versatile canvas to fully immerse in the aesthetic. Go for the classic color palette of red, navy blue, and forest green, and experiment with various finishes like matte or glossy.
With acrylics, you have the flexibility to create intricate nail art designs like celestial nail art, plaid-inspired designs, and book motifs.







If you wish to incorporate something different, try dark cat eye designs with a touch of glitter, two toned French manicures, ombre nails, and fine line gold detailing.
Whether you choose an almond, or round shape, acrylic nails provide the perfect platform to embrace the charm and allure of the dark academia subculture with confidence and creativity.
Embrace Dark Academia Nails In Your Personal Way
These dark academia nails are beautiful and inspiring to influence your next nail design. Through the strokes of rich burgundies, deep navy blues, and alluring forest greens, your nails can become a canvas that celebrates the magic of storytelling.
Whether you’re a seasoned nail art enthusiast or a curious beginner, nail artistry has no boundaries, so feel free to use your creativity and enjoy dark academia nails in whatever way you adore.
I hope you enjoy this guide and take a look at some of the other nail art inspirations that Grow With Zoe has to showcase.
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