Halloween isn’t just about costumes and decorations; it’s also the perfect excuse to get creative with your nails. Whether you’re heading to a party or just fancy a touch of spooky glam, Halloween nail designs can be as bold or subtle as you like.
Here are some fun and easy Halloween nail ideas to inspire your next manicure, all of which you can recreate at home using affordable tools and polish from Amazon, Etsy and other online shops.
1. Classic Black Nails
You can never go wrong with black. It’s sleek, dramatic, and instantly fits the Halloween mood. Try a glossy black polish for a timeless look, or go for a matte top coat or polish to make it more modern. Add a single silver or white accent nail for a little contrast.
Tip: Gel polish lasts longer and gives that salon finish at home.
2. Pumpkin Orange Shades
Orange nails are cheerful yet spooky; the perfect nod to pumpkins and autumn leaves. Pair them with a glittery top coat or tiny pumpkin nail stickers to make them pop.
Try mixing orange and black for a striped or ombré effect.
3. Ghost & Spider Designs
If you’re handy with a nail brush or stamping kit, you can paint simple ghosts, spider webs, or bats on a neutral base. A black and white theme works best, but you can add a hint of red or silver for detail.
Nail stamping plates and dotting tools make these designs much easier.
4. Blood Drip Nails
This one’s a bit daring, perfect for a Halloween party look. Start with a nude or pale pink base, then use a thin brush to paint “drips” of deep red polish from the tip downward. Finish with a glossy top coat for that wet-look finish.
You can use gel polish or nail art pens for more control.
5. Glitter and Holographic Effects
Not into scary designs? Go for glamour instead. Dark glitter polishes — like deep purple, emerald, or black with gold shimmer — catch the light beautifully and still feel on-theme for the season.
Top tip: holographic polish looks stunning under candlelight or flash photos.
6. Press-On Halloween Nails
If painting isn’t your thing, press-on nails are a quick win. There are loads of affordable sets online featuring cobwebs, skulls, or gothic patterns, and they can be reused if you look after them.
Choose adhesive tabs if you want to wear them just for one night.
How to Make Your Manicure Last Longer
- Always start with a clean, dry nail surface.
- Use a good quality base coat and top coat; they make a huge difference.
- Wear gloves for chores or washing up (yes, even at Halloween).
Shop the Look
- Black and orange nail press-on nail set
- Halloween nail polish set
- Nail art tools and stamping kits
- Press-on Halloween nail sets
- Base coat and top coat set
- Nail dryers or UV lamps for gel nails
Take a look at our list of Halloween Nails on Benable. If you’re not a member yet, use my invite link here (you can earn commissions just by sharing your favourite products!).
Final Touch
A Halloween manicure is such a simple way to get festive, and it photographs beautifully for Pinterest or Instagram. Even if you’re staying in with a spooky film and snacks, those little details make the evening feel special.
