Nicole Kidman Leads ’90s Goth Glam Revival with Ultra-Dark Nails at Balenciaga 2025 Couture Show

While summer might still be in full swing, Nicole Kidman is already dictating the mood for Fall/Winter, making a definitive statement at the Balenciaga Haute Couture Fall/Winter 2025/2026 show yesterday, July 9, 2025. The Oscar-winning actress, known for her sartorial prowess, subtly yet powerfully heralded the comeback of the ’90s goth-glam dark nail polish trend, proving that timeless rebellion knows no season.

Kidman was a prominent figure among a constellation of stars including Kim Kardashian, Cardi B, Salma Hayek, and Lorde, all gathered in Paris for Demna’s latest Balenciaga presentation. Many guests echoed an “upscale goth” aesthetic, ranging from bold to subtle. Kidman perfectly aligned with this vibe, sporting a slouchy, all-black suit that exuded an air of sophisticated mystery.

A Deep Dive into Nicole’s Dark Manicure

Upon first glance, one might assume Kidman simply matched her short, neat nails to her all-black ensemble. However, as discerning eyes from publications like Allure quickly confirmed, the star’s manicure was far more nuanced and significant. She wasn’t wearing plain black, but rather an extra-super-duper-dark red or purple shade.

This specific choice is a direct callback to the iconic nail trends of the mid-’90s, reminiscent of the cult-favorite Chanel Vamp polish that defined an era of dark romance and edgy sophistication. It also brings to mind the enduring popularity of shades like OPI’s “Lincoln Park After Dark” from the mid-2000s, further cementing the cyclical nature of beauty trends.

The Allure article eloquently captures the essence of this look:

Nothing says, ‘I’m complicated,’ quite like short, dark nails worn during and despite the sunniest days of the year. Thirty years ago, it felt rebellious, and to this day, it still feels moody—like it captures the essence of both teen angst and full-grown seduction simultaneously.

Kidman’s manicure wasn’t just a color choice; it was a mood, a declaration that dark, powerful beauty is always in vogue.

Balenciaga: The Perfect Stage for Rebellious Elegance

Balenciaga’s haute couture shows, under Demna’s direction, have consistently pushed boundaries and celebrated an unconventional elegance. Kidman’s embrace of this specific beauty trend perfectly complemented the house’s current direction, which often flirts with darker, more deconstructed themes. Her seamless integration of this ’90s-inspired detail into a high-fashion setting showcases her innate ability to be both classic and cutting-edge.

As fashion forward observers look towards the Fall/Winter 2025 season, Nicole Kidman’s elegant yet powerfully dark manicure serves as a definitive signal: prepare to swap out your sheer nudes for something with a little more depth, mystery, and a touch of that undeniable ’90s attitude.