Bestie, forget pastels for a sec—the licorice French nails trend is taking over this spring. Glossy black tips? Chic. Unexpected? Absolutely.
This fresh take on the classic French manicure gives your nails that polished but moody vibe, perfect for adding contrast to your spring aesthetic.
What makes licorice French nails a must-try? The high-shine black French tip is sleek, modern, and universally flattering.
It’s minimal enough for everyday wear but bold enough to stand out. Plus, it works on every nail shape, from almond to square to stiletto, making it one of the most versatile spring nail trends.

Want to DIY it? Here’s how:
💅 Prep your base: A smooth foundation is key. Opt for a structured gel manicure for a flawless base or buff your natural nails for an even surface.
💅 Create the licorice tip: Use a fine brush or guide stickers to paint a crisp black French tip. A gel polish or high-pigment lacquer works best for that sharp, defined look.
💅 Clean up for precision: Dip a fine brush in polish remover to perfect the edges and sharpen the contrast.
💅 Lock in the shine: The liquid-like finish is what makes this trend pop, so choose an ultra-glossy, no-wipe topcoat to keep the look sleek and chip-resistant.
And just like that, you’ve nailed one of the hottest black French manicure trends of the season. If soft pinks and pastels aren’t your thing, licorice French nails are the ultimate cool-girl alternative.
Here’s our roundup of 15 licorice French nail designs to inspire your next mani. Trust us, bestie—you’ll want to screenshot these.
1. Dot Art

Glossy black French tips + dot details + shiny finish = French tips 2.0! These licorice nails give major charcoal chic vibes that stand out from the basic crowd. Totally artistic-coded and ready for your nail inspo collection! ✨
2. Outlined Mani

White-outlined black tips that scream spring with attitude! This upgraded French mani delivers contrast that’ll make your Pinterest followers do a double-take. For girlies who want their classic look with an extra shot of cool!
3. Heart Accents

Dark spring mood! These badass black French tips with sneaky white hearts let you celebrate the season while keeping your edge. Forget those basic pastels – this is spring for people who’d rather wear black in bloom.
4. Celestial Nails

Inky black French tips with a celestial touch! These vampy minimalist nails serve a serious night-sky aesthetic. Perfect for luxury lovers who want their manicures mysterious and magical—a little cosmic drama.
5. Coquette Mani

Black French tips with soft pink bows? The ultimate combo of dark glam with soft. It’s balletcore meets noire, flirty and TikTok-approved. If you’re eyeing the dark French trend, send this to your nail tech ASAP and thank me later!
6. Cherry Accents

If you’re going for a dark aesthetic but still want to show some spring touch, take your glowy French nails and add cherries. It’s giving Y2K cuteness with a side of cool-girl energy—your Pinterest board’s new obsession.
7. Floral Design

Hey there, nail lovers! 💅 Black French tips just got a sunny upgrade! These adorable white florals (a total spring staple) turn your edgy mani into something delightfully dainty. Who says you can’t rock dark vibes while embracing pretty petals?
8. Scalloped Mani

These scalloped black tips? So fire! Basic French manis could never compete. It’s the perfect blend of vintage charm and fresh style. Don’t forget to save this for your next nail appointment. Your friends will be begging for the deets! 🖤
9. Negative Space

Jet black curves meet negative space in this absolute must-try mani! This high-shine masterpiece that brings rich-girl vibes. The perfect balance of editorial and wearable—this nail moment is definitely on our radar this season!
10. Micro French

Calling all minimalists! These micro black French tips? Spring’s hottest understated flex! Clean, chic, and serving quiet luxury energy. A versatile mani that looks amazing with everything. Such a simple design, but trust—it’s expensive!
11. Pearl Accents

How about some pearls with those black French tips, besties? It turns basic, glowy French tips into absolute glam! The perfect touch of sparkle that’s still trending hard. We can’t wait to flaunt this graceful vibe all spring long!
12. Side Tips

Side-swept black French tips? Obsessed! This design is unexpected and secretly high-fashion approved. Nail fashionistas take note—this licorice trend is cool enough for Instagram but still wearable for daily life! We love it!
13. Ombre Effect

Faded black French tips? Absolutely ICONIC! This smoky fade effect is everything right now. The licorice trend brings the drama while delivering glossy elegance. Your next mani obsession starts here!
14. Swirl Design

Swirly licorice French tips are THE unusual spring mood! These wavy designs are peak It-girl energy with their playful curves and negative space. Gallery-worthy nail art that’s totally ready for your warm weather fits!
SEE ALSO: Swirly French Tip Nails That Are Straight-Up Mani Goals
15. Deep french

Grunge meets gothic glam. The deep noir tips aren’t just trending—they’re dominating! These shiny black tips deliver pure runway realness that works with every fit. Catch us wearing these 24/7!
Feeling your dark glam fantasy or just want that extra pop? Licorice French tips are the moment! These black tips are serving pure nail inspo regardless of your vibe. Show us which version you’re obsessing over and watch your likes skyrocket! 🖤

Anthony Gborie Yambie Kollie
Friday 14th of March 2025
Learning nails.