Hailey Bieber wore a bubblegum-pink gown to the October 17 Academy Museum Gala—and paired it with the last manicure color you might expect: glossy black. The contrast made the whole look feel sharper. For that same sleek finish, Bessie’s Black Pearl press-on nails deliver a jet-black, medium-almond manicure without a salon visit.

According to Vogue’s October 17 behind-the-scenes report, nail artist Zola Ganzorigt shaped Bieber’s nails into almonds and painted them a deep, glossy black. Against the soft pink Chanel dress, the manicure looked more modern than severe. It's a useful reminder that your nails don't have to match your outfit to work with it.

Why black almond nails always work

A black manicure can feel polished, dramatic, or a little rebellious depending on the shape and finish. On a medium almond nail, the dark color looks streamlined. A high-gloss surface adds a light-catching quality that keeps it from feeling flat.

For everyday styling, try black nails with a pale knit, blue denim, or silver rings. They also look striking with pink, as Bieber demonstrated. You don't need an all-black wardrobe to wear them.

Three ways to go darker

For the cleanest interpretation, Black Pearl is a glossy, solid jet black. If you want more detail, Abyssal mixes smoky black, charcoal, and taupe with thin silver chrome lines and stars on long almond nails. It's moodier and more decorative than Bieber’s minimalist set.

Not ready for true black? Dark Emerald takes the same after-dark energy into deep green cat-eye chrome. Its shifting finish makes the color feel almost jewel-like under evening light.

Whichever you choose, match the press-on width carefully and follow the kit’s removal instructions rather than pulling. Browse more understated shades in Bessie’s Solid Colors collection. A dark manicure doesn't need a complicated design to make an entrance.