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Let’s be real, we can’t walk around everyday with beautiful, claw-like structures. Granted, they are gorgeous and any nail design seems to really pop out on a pair of long, strong nails.
However, it can be rather impractical in everyday life to walk around with long nails.
Sure, long nails are nice, but a couple of weeks in and they can start to feel more high-maintenance than there worth. Shorter nails can be as bold and beautiful as long nails. They can be as impactful as longer nails.
Simple designs, as well as intricate designs, can be on short nail, without worrying about breakage.
Unique Nail Designs For Short Nails
Besides a bold colors or a neutral-toned solid color, there are plenty of nail art designs to experiment. A classic French manicure looks impossibly chic with a shorter length. For a more artsy look, consider a multi-shade abstract manicure.
Whatever style you choose, you will find your everyday nail design. Scroll below for plenty of unique nail designs for short nails looks to suit your needs.
Monochrome Manicure
One base color is always a safe bet for an easy manicure. Bright colors or a subtle color is a must-have polish for short nails.
With less space to play with, the shorter length creates a more refined canvas for bold colors that could have otherwise been too overwhelming on longer lengths.
French Manicure
These classic manicures are known for their simplistic design.
Instead of a thick white strip across the top, a micro French manicure has a razor thin tip and is nearly undetectable. It’s a fun twist on the usual French mani and offers a great option for those who seek a shorter length.
The micro French is a great short-nail design because it adds dimension to the nail without looking heavy.
Negative Space
These manicures are easy way to add simple nail designs to your nails. Negative space manicures are a trend that has no bounds.
Whether you want to go symmetrical, or add a splash of color, the options are endless when it comes to achieving the aesthetic.
Another pro of the design is that it instantly makes your manicure look that much more interesting and artistic.
Floral Nails
Whatever time of the year it is, you can never go wrong with floral designs.
If you want to add a pop of color to your nails without fully painting them, negative-space blooms are perfect.
Minimalist nails can make a statement, too—especially on shorter lengths, just add a few flowers to your manicure.
Glitter
A bit of sparkle is the perfect way to spice up any nail design and make it instantly festive. The best part – a little goes a long way.
While glitter is a high impact look, some may want a more subtle look. Regardless of the amount, glitter is the perfect way to up your short nail game.
Tortoise Shell Nails
The tortoiseshell print gives a manicure a bit of a retro feel, yet the neutral palette and high shine give it a modern spin.
Incorporate it with other designs or keep it uniform for a luxe look.
Celestial Nails
Deck out your nails with starry nail art for a dreamy finish.
These celestial-inspired manis are incredibly cool and chic—not to mention, you can interpret the trend in so many ways.
Summer Vibes
It is the season that is all about leaning into vibrant nail polishes and playful designs that are reminiscent of the warm days ahead.
Shake your nails up with beach scenes or colorful colors perfect for the warm season.
Abstract Nail Art
The best part about these less-conventional abstract designs is that they’re easy for everyone to achieve, as they don’t follow a single set rule in regards to the trend.
So, if you’re someone who likes squiggles, throw some in; if you fancy dots, checkers, or even smiley faces – go wild.
