18 Manicure Ideas for Short Nails With an Elevated, Cool-Girl Feel

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We are living through the short nail renaissance. Shorter nails have been reclaimed, refined, and reimagined as the ultimate canvas for all kinds of designs. They're lower-maintenance and more functional—but that doesn't mean you have to sacrifice style for function. There's no shortage of nail art, designs, embellishments, and finishes that work on smaller surface area. So ahead, discover 15 short nail looks that prove longer isn't always better.

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Tortoise Shell

If Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy was a manicure, it would be this. Sleek, elegant, and timeless, these tortoise shell nails are irresistible.

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Asymmetric French

There's nothing more chic than an elevated classic. This asymmetric French tip with a sheer, milky base gives short nails an effortlessly modern twist.

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Reverse French

For those who have had enough of the French tip, we present the reverse French. A pop of shimmer along the cuticle is an easy way to add an edgy twist to your natural nails.

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Baby Pink Glaze

I like to think of sheer pink nails as the LBDs of manicures. Equal parts elegant and fail-proof, they add a touch of cutesy sophistication that goes with every outfit.

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Tomato Girl Summer

Tomato girl summer forever. Tomato details add the cutest flair to short nude nails, giving them a playful pop of color for a fresh-from-the-garden vibe.

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Classic Red

A classic red manicure is always a safe bet. For a tasteful touch of color that instantly elevates any look, opt for a rich, true red with a glossy finish.

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Studded Tips

The boho chic aesthetic is officially coming for your nails. Gold-beaded tips are the most subtle touch of maximalism for sheer short nails.

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Chrome Accents

Pink aura nails are nothing new, but pink aura nails with chrome accents? Sign me up. Thanks to the shorter length, they're ethereal and edgy without doing too much.

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3D Hearts

When in doubt, a 3D detail never hurts. These heart bubble nails are adorably charming, and the short length makes it even more captivating.

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Matcha Latte

There's something so cozy about matching your nails to your matcha latte. These muted green nails embody earthy, understated elegance.

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Watercolor Sunset

Watercolor paintings are soft, subtle, and so mesmerizing—so why not try them on your nails? For the color-curious minimalist, these watercolor sunset nails are both dreamy and simple.

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Flower Power

You can never go wrong with florals. Elevate a nude manicure with dainty flower details that'll add a whimsical touch to your natural nails.

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Pastel French

French tips on short nails are an underrated combination. Give them a vibrant twist with pastel tones that'll brighten up your day just by looking at them.

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Colorful Accents

Short nails are the perfect canvas for playfully mismatched designs. Play around with negative space for a minimalist look that's simultaneously understated and striking.

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Berry Bliss

Red goes with everything, so strawberry nails just make sense. This fruit-forward design pairs exquisitely with a shorter length for a sweet, nostalgic vibe.

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Gunmetal Chrome

Something about a short chrome manicure feels so 2013 Tumblr-esque, and I'm into it. For a moodier look, opt for a gunmetal grey chrome that'll transport you back to the good ol' Tumblr days.

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Precious Gemstones

This one's for my crystal girlies. Infinitely mesmerizing, these gemstone-inspired nails bring magical energy to your fingertips, and they suit shorter nails brilliantly.

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Jelly Nails

Jelly nails are delightfully multi-dimensional, which makes them wonderfully compatible with shorter nails. With a semi-translucent finish, these pink jelly nails will have you staring at your nails 24/7.

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Article taken from Byrdie

Article written by Derek Deng