Short and Sweet: 75 Chic Short Nail Designs
Short and Sweet: 75 Chic Short Nail Designs
Are you looking for some new short nail designs? If so you’ve come to the right place. In this post we’ll check out the most popular designs of all time, what’s trending this year and we’ll look at the hottest nail colors and shapes too. Read to the end and I’ll show you some of my favorite press on nails as well.
Easy Nail Designs for Short Nails Without Tools
Are you’re looking for some easy short nail ideas that you can DIY even if you’re not a nail professional? If so then I have some for you in this post. Read on and check out some of the best easy DIY designs such as:
- A Modern Dotticure
- Micro Tips
- Minimalistic Nails
- Marble Nail Design
We’ll explore all of these nail designs and more in this post!
Classic Short Nail Designs
First, let’s take a look at some short nail patterns that never go out of style. Try one of these nail designs with a modern twist and your nails are sure to look on point.
Short Nails French Tip
The French manicure is a timeless choice for short nails that never goes out of style. The classic design is with a nude or light pink base with white tips. But if you want to modernize this classic try a bold color, glitter tips or a fun pattern.
One of the modern trends right now is micro tips, which is a French manicure with a thin tip. Check out the best modern short French tips below.
French Tips with Ring Stacks
Image Source | lillypalm_
Micro French Nails
Image Source | nailsbyjennifer93
Short French Tip Nails
Image Source | lindseybeautylounge1
Square French Tips with Flowers
Image Source | gelsbybry
Floral Short Nail Ideas
Floral designs look pretty on short nails and are especially popular in the spring and summer time. If you want to add a little femininity and charm to your nails try painting small flowers, in various colors over your entire nail or on the tips. An easy DIY option is to use floral nail stickers.
Flower Accent Nails
Image Source | kcnailsx
Floral Tip Nail Design
Image Source | rachelsbeauty
Almond Floral Nails
Image Source | nailsquad_25
Short Pink Flower Nails
Image Source | lindseybeautylounge1
Modern Dot Short Nail Designs
Polka dots are always in style. I’m loving the modern dot design called a dotticure. To get the look add a straight row of dots in the same color or different colors. Check out some inspiration below.
Rainbow Dotticure
Image Source | tessa.lyn.nails
Pastel Polka Dot Nail Design
Image Source | lindsybeautylounge1
Colorful Dot Nail Design Idea
Image Source | onenailtorulethemall
Modern Dot Nail Design
Image Source | m.o.n.a.j
Short Nail Design with Flecks
Animal Print Nail Designs for Short Nails
For an edgier look how about incorporating some animal print like leopard, zebra or cow print onto your short nails? This too is another design that will never go out of style.
You can use a thin brush or even a toothpick to draw the design on your nails. Try a design on just a few nails or even just the nail tip. Check out some inspiration below.
Leopard Print Nail Design
Image Source | mir_dizaina_manikura
Cow Print Nails
Image Source | mir_dizaina_manikura
Animal Print Short Nail Design
Image Source | mir_dizaina_manikura
Marbling Short Nail Designs
Marble nails looks sophisticated and chic on short nails. To achieve this design drop a small amount of different nail polish colors onto a plastic sheet and then gently swirl them together and press your nail into the pattern. The result is a unique design that looks like natural marble.
For a little extra add some gold flecks. Get inspired by some gorgeous marble nails below.
Short Marble Nails
Image Source | _by_shelley
Pink Marble Nails with Gold Flecks
Image Source | beauty_nailsgdl
Marble French Tip Design
Image Source | amberlilynails
Short Nail Ideas with Accent Nails
An easy way to add a little interest to your nail design is with accent nails. Choose one or two nails on each hand and add glitter, a different color, or a design and to really make them stand out. Check out some of my favorite ideas for accent nails below.
Short Pink Nails with Accent
Image Source | nailsbypaulin
Floral Accent Nail
Image Source | verenisse_nailsart
Matte, Nude and Glossy Finishes
Another way to switch up your nail design is to experiment with different finishes. A nude manicure will give your nails a classy, understated feel. Matte finish is perfect if you’re looking for a more sophisticated and contemporary look.
Try a glossy finish if you really want your nails to pop. Don’t be afraid to mix and match finishes within the same manicure for a truly original nail design.
What is so fun about all of these designs is you can do them yourself. Pick your favorite and give it a try.
Short Nail Designs 2023
Do you like to try out the latest nail trends for yourself? If so then read on I’ll show you some of the hottest nail patterns this year that look amazing on short nails.
Minimalist Nail Art
Nowadays, it’s all about minimal nails also called negative space design. What this means is that you leave a portion of your nails unpolished so you see the natural nail beneath. Then you can create a pattern on top like stripes or florals.
Minimal Nail Design
Image Source | _pgoo
Retro Inspired Nail Design
Image Source | truebeautybycarrie
Abstract Short Nail Designs
One of the hottest trends right now is abstract nail designs. Experiment with different colors and shapes to create a truly one-of-a-kind look. Remember with this design it does not have to be perfect and two nails do not be exactly the same.
Bright Abstract Nail Design
Image Source | kcnailsx
Abstract Squiggle Nail Design
Image Source | peachinails
Half-Moon Short Nail Ideas
The half moon design is one of my new favorites and it looks great on short nails. This design features a small moon shape either at the base or tip of your nail.
Add a half moon to make your manicure look modern. An easy way to create this design is by applying circular stickers and then painting over them and removing them.
Half Moon Dot Nail Idea
Image Source | tessa.lyn.nails
Boho Short Nail Design Idea
Image Source | _by_shelley
Half Moon Gel Nails
Image Source | thedailynailofficial
Yellow Half Moon Nails
Image Source | gel.bymegan
Checkerboard Nail Designs for Short Nails
Checkerboard is another nail design that is both on trend and looks great with short nails. You can DIY this look by using nail striping tape or freehand with a fine brush. For a modern look stick to a two-tone color pallet.
Bright Checkerboard Almond Nails
Image Source | polishedbypayt
Trippy Nail Design
Image Source | _polishmepretty_xo
Short Green and Checkerboard Nails
Image Source | larkandsparrownails
Rainbow Short Nail Ideas
Rainbow is one of the most popular nail designs and there are several ways to pull it off. You can paint each of your nails a different color for a bright and fun feel. You could also paint small rainbows on some of your nails for a playful look.
Tiny Rainbow Nail Design
Image Source | thedailynailofficial
Rainbow Valentine Nail Idea
Image Source | cindypaola.nails
If you need a little more Valentines Day Nail inspiration, then you should check out this post…
The Hottest Valentine’s Nails to Try This Year
Short Pastel Rainbow Nails
Image Source | _kaiinails
Short Galaxy Nails
Galaxy nails are a new trend that I’m loving which is inspired by the solar system. Check out what I mean below.
Short Pastel Galaxy Nails
Image Source | nailartbysofia_
Short Nail Ideas with Retro Stripes
Retro striped nails are so the rage right now. Choose a few of your favorite colors and add a whimsical stripe and maybe even a little glitter.
Green Retro Stripe Nail Design
Image Source | cindypaoloa.nails
Pink Glittery Swirl Gel Nails
Image Source | peachinails
Short Yellow Nail Design
Image Source | yvonne.ocasio
Square Pink Striped Nails
Image Source | beautybyspace_charlotte
Short Pastel Squiggle Nails
Image Source | peachinails
Mix and Match Short Nail Designs
If you want to try a nail design that is fun and very unique try creating a different design on each nail. The trend now is everything goes the colors and the designs don’t have to match. Get some inspo with the fun nail sets below.
Happy Mix and Match Nail Design
Image Source | peachinails
Pretty Nail Designs
Image Source | nailsbyantofigueroa
Bright Nail Art Idea
Image Source | dreamsnail_art
Short Nail Ideas for the Season
I don’t know about you but I love to change up my nails based on the season. I want to show you the hottest nail designs for short nails for each season so you can do the same.
Spring Short Nails
Spring is the perfect time to break out those light colors like lavender, pastels and flowers. Below check out some of my favorite spring nail designs.
Square Mint and Floral Nails
Image Source | ida.babaie
Lavender Square Nail Set
Image Source | nogti.best
Round Spring Nail Design
Image Source | thedailynailofficial
If you’re looking for some more Spring Nail inspo then check out this post…
Spring Nails (Ideas Trending in 2023)
Summer Short Nails
Summertime is when you want to break out the bright colors and fun patterns. Let’s look at some nail designs that are perfect for summertime.
Fruity Short Nail Designs
A fun new trend that I am seeing right now is fruity nails. Add some lemons, cherries, or oranges to your nail designs for a fun playful vibe that is perfect for summertime.
Lemon Nail Design
Image Source | nailitmedia
Cherry French Manicure
Image Source | nailsbyemmaess
Grapefruit Nail Art
Image Source | simoneradleynails
Round Orange Nail Art
Image Source | elbeauty
Bright Short Nail Ideas
Another summertime favorite is to add bright colors to your nails. Check out some inspiration below.
Bright Square Nails
Image Source | nails.by.iz
Neon Matte Nails
Image Source | taryn.nails
Need more summer nails ideas? I got you, check out this post…
39 Gorgeous Summer Nails You Need to Try
Short Fall Nails
To add a little autumn, feel to your nails get inspired by nature. Think trees with changing leaves and pick any shade of orange, red, green or brown. Check out some inspiration below.
Autumn Nail Inspiration
Image Source | kt.geelkyyned
Fall Leaf Nail Art
Image Source | _paolalaureano
If you’re looking for more fall nail ideas, then check out this post…
The Hottest Fall Nails for 2023
Short Winter Nails
For winter try white, silver or a light blue to get into the spirit of the season. Check out some of my favorite winter nails below.
Classy Winter Nail Inspiration
Image Source | ideai_nogtey
Pretty Blue Winter Nail Design
Image Source | lillypalm_
You can find tons of fun ideas for Christmas nails here…
77 Fun Christmas Nails to Copy in 2023
Short Nail Prep and Care
One of the most important things when you have short nails is prepping and care for them before you start your design. To maintain healthy short nails, follow these steps:
- Start by gently removing any existing nail polish with a non-acetone remover.
- Soak your nails in warm soapy water for a few minutes to soften the cuticles.
- Push back your cuticles using a cuticle pusher or an orange stick.
- Trim and file your nails to your desired shape.
- Moisturize your hands and nails with a hand cream or cuticle oil.
Keeping your nails clean and healthy will not only keep your nails looking better but it will also help your manicure last longer.
Short Nail Shapes
Now let’s take a look at some of the most popular nail shapes this year that look amazing on short nails.
What are the best shapes for short nails?
The nail shapes that look best on short nails are:
- Round
- Square
- Almond
- Squoval
Let’s check out each of those below.
Short Round Nails
This classic shape is perfect for short nails, as it follows the natural curve of your fingertips, strengthens the sides of the nails, and gives an overall clean look.
Round Gel Nails
Image Source | gel.bymegan
Square Nails Short
If you prefer a more modern and geometric look, square nails are a great option. This shape can make your fingers appear slimmer and works well with both minimalistic and bold designs.
Lavender Square Nails
Image Source | nailsby.antofigueroa
Short Almond Nails
For those who like a slightly elongated and feminine appearance, almond-shaped nails can be a perfect choice. This shape is characterized by slightly tapered sides and a rounded tip, giving the illusion of longer nails.
Almond Floral Nails
Image Source | elbebeauty
Squoval Short Nails
Squoval is a combination of a square and an oval shape. Try this shape for an on trend look.
Pink Sherbet Squoval Nails
Image Source | lillypalm_
Short Nail Colors
Ok so now you’ve chosen your favorite nail shape now let’s check out some different short nail color choices. For those of you that like to paint your nails a solid color without a pattern let’s check out the top nail colors for short nails.
Pink Nails
Pink will always be a top nail color. If you love pink you can mix it up and try different shades for each manicure. For a softer look try a light pink and go bright in the summer for a more playful vibe.
Short Pink Nails
Image Source | nailjoyable
Short Red Nails
Red nails will never go out of style and in fact it’s one of the hottest nail colors this year. Try a vibrant red if you want to go bold.
Short Cherry Red Nails
Image Source | nails_genas
Neon Short Nails
Do you want to go bold with your nail design? If so then try a bold color or a neon hue. If you really want to make your nails stand out and express your personality this is the way to go. Mix different colors like neon green with metallic accents or gold flecks for an eye-catching design.
Short Neon Gel Nails
Image Source | my_nails_ig
Pastel Nail Colors
One of the most popular color choices for short nails is light and pastel colors. Try a soft hue of pastel blue, lavender or light pink for nails that compliment any outfit and always look chic and professional. Patterns like flowers, abstract swirls or color blocking looks great in a pastel color scheme.
Short Lavender Nails
Image Source | lackfrisch
Short Nude Nails
Natural nails are another classic that is always in style. Nude nails look clean and professional. If that’s the look you’re going for check out a little inspiration below.
Short Natural Nails
Image Source | raelondonnails
Metallic Short Nail Designs
Metallic nails also called chrome nails are on trend this year. Try one a metallic color if you want to make a statement. You can either paint your entire nail a metallic polish color or you can add a metallic accent.
Try experimenting with different metallic shades like gold, silver, or even holographic glitter to find the one that you love.
Orange Chrome Nails
Image Source | qwjluna
Short Shimmer Nails
Shimmery nails are in style right now. Add a little glitter and gloss to your short nails to make them stand out a little more and look more glamorous. You can either glitter the entire nails, try a gradient effect on each nail or opt for a glitter accent nail.
Short Glitter Nails
Image Source | lillypalm_
Short Press on Nails
Here is one of my new secrets that I want to share with you. Have you tried press on nails recently? I used to get my nails done at the salon but I heard that press on nails had improved a ton so I tried them and it’s true.
Here are my tips for press on nails:
- If they are too long you can just cut them with nail clippers.
- You can paint them with nail polish and they will dry super-fast.
- Press them on for at least 90 seconds to make them last longer.
- Don’t get them wet for at least an hour after you put them on.
- Carry a little nail glue in your purse incase a nail gets loose while you’re out.
Best Short Press on Nails
Ok now, I’m going to show you some of my favorite short press on nails. There are a few brands that I’ve found that are quality and look natural. There are also a lot that don’t. I am just going to show you the best ones!
Oval White Stripe Press on Nails
White Stripe Press on Nails | Where to Find
Short Light Pink Squoval Press Ons
Light Pink Fake Nails | Where to Find
Short Nude Artificial Nails
Nude Square Fake Nails | Where to Find
Short French Tip Press on Nails
French Manicure Fake Nails | Where to Find
Square Black Press on Nails
Black Fake Nails | Where to Find
Short Light Pink Artificial Nails
Kiss Fake Nails | Where to Find
Glossy Nude Press on Nails
Short Glossy Glue on Nails | Where to Find
Hopefully you got inspired by all of these short nail designs and are going to treat yourself to a DIY or a professional manicure. Feel free to save your favorite ideas to you Pinterest boards. To do that just click on the picture and then the P and choose your board. If you enjoyed this post, please share it!
Here are some more posts all about nails that I think you’ll love…
Nail Designs 2023 (59 Art, Color & Shape Ideas)
75 Press on Nails (That Actually Look Real)