All products featured on Allure are independently selected by our editors.
However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through links in this article.
But let’s be honest:short nail designsare long overdue for some time in the spotlight.
Photographed by Heami Lee
You and your adorable short nails can still hang.
In fact, thesemanicureslook amazing on all lengths, especially on shorties.
We’ve got several ideas that fare more on the neutral side.
Fancy pink over neutrals?
We’ve got those, too.
Consider all your nail art needs to be covered.
All products featured on Allure are independently selected by our editors.
However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Here, she balanced big, colorful gems with smaller ones overSally Hansen Xtreme Wear in 625 Silver Storm.
UseKiss Nail Glueand glue dryer spray: “The gems won’t budge,” she states.
Marbleized Metallic
Marbleized metallic nails are individual and funky.
“Apply the darkest metallic first so colors dont become muddied,” she says.
Two-Toned Tips
This simple split-color manicure has a sophisticated but fun feel to it.
“Try using an angular design that will also help elongate the look of your nails.”
“It’s not about achieving the perfect shape but about using color for self-expression.”
TryAlpine Snowby OPI for a similar soft white polish.
Geometric Half Moons
This festive red manicure isn’t just perfect for the holiday season.
Wear this cut-out, geometric half-moon design any time of year and you’re bound to get compliments.
Floral Ombre
This lavender manicure with floral accents couldn’t be easier to recreate at home.
A pro tip from Lin?
If the brush is too thick, simply trim some of the bristles away with scissors."
In fact, you’re free to even get some nail decals and just stick your smileys on.
Don’t worry about making it too perfect, either.
It’ll come out cute no matter what.
Truly tropical, right?
Twinkling Stars
Give your nails a subtly chic twinkling effect with this manicure by nail artistDaisy Tann.
Don’t let those gem-like sparkles interspersed among the stars fool you, though.
She usedLiquid Vinyl by Orlyfor all the miniature facial details.
“This is key to your black gel applying easy with no lumps,” she says.
She reached forGlossify’s One Coat Gel in Blackfor the U-shaped edges.
The luxe, velvety finish gives this look something undeniably special.
Moreover, Inzerillo says you shouldn’t be scared to use multiple metallic shades in a look like this.
Note that the cherry-red base makes the three-tiered floral design stand out even more, which we love.
For this look, placement is super important, says Lin.
Nail artistTaylor Watsonupdated the tortoiseshell’s traditional dark brown and tan color scheme with a Kelly green background.
Glitter Tips
Worried your short nails won’t get noticed?
Simply add some sparkle and you’re good to go.
“Layering fine glitter polish under a chunkier option also adds dimension and extra sparkle.”
Matisse Masterpieces
Turn your nails into a colorful, walking art gallery with these Henri Matisse-inspired nails.
“The main focus was to make it clean,” Nova says in regards to the design.
Because this was a gel-based set, she also emphasized the importance of using clean acetone.
“You’re using so many different gel colors.
You don’t want them to get muddy,” she explains.
“It’s super glossy, makes manicures last for weeks, and dries in under five minutes.”
Raining Rainbow
How cool is this whimsical rainbow mani?
Rose Quartz
This dreamyrose quartz manicureis just another look that’s especially ideal for short nails.
To create this mesmerizing design, Mazz used Orly’s polishes in shadesKiss Me I’m KindandWhite Tips.
If you’re also trying to grow your nails out, confirm to keep them constantly hydrated.
[A smaller surface area is] actually great because it enhances the blobbiness," Moore says.
Short nails have never met a cuter design more than this one.
To create the mushroom, she says she starts with the stem, then ends with the cap.
Painting mushrooms on your nails sounds like a lot more fun than digging them out of your yard.
However,Oleksandra Deinekaproves that soap bubbles actually make for a great nail design on short nails.
it’s possible for you to watch Deineka create this manicure in real-time by checking out her tutorial righthere.
Start by placing a dot of polish on the stamper using the dotting tool.
Each nail features aZodiac signpainted in gold against a navy blue background.
If you’re considering recreating this look on your own, Petersen’s tips are pretty straightforward.
“venture to not overthink it,” she tellsAllure.
“I make a run at just focus on one line at a time.”
Oh, and try using gel polishes instead.
“It’s so forgiving,” she says.
As for the Fuschia French tips, Nguyen used a polish from Dior in the shadeLucky.
Nguyen finds this design to be ideal for short nails “because of the micro delicate French tips.
