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@aliciatnails/ INSTAGRAM

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.

sheer short nude nails with blue, red and brown accents

@aliciatnails/ INSTAGRAM

They’re lower-maintenance and more functionalbut that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style for function.

Soahead, discover 15 short nail looks that prove longer isn’t always better.

Tortoise Shell

@imarninails/ Instagram

If Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy was a manicure, it would be this.

close up of tortoiseshell manicure on white sheet background

@imarninails/ Instagram

Sleek, elegant, and timeless, thesetortoise shellnails are irresistible.

Asymmetric French

@nailtherapy.co/ INSTAGRAM

There’s nothing more chic than an elevated classic.

This asymmetricFrench tipwith a sheer, milky base gives short nails an effortlessly modern twist.

sheer nude short nails with asymmetric white french tips

@nailtherapy.co/ INSTAGRAM

Equal parts elegant and fail-proof, they add a touch of cutesy sophistication that goes with every outfit.

Tomato Girl Summer

@betina_goldstein/ INSTAGRAM

Tomato girl summer forever.

Classic Red

lolo.nailedit/ Instagram

A classicred manicureis always a safe bet.

black reverse french with nude nails

@imarninails/ INSTAGRAM

Studded Tips

@betina_goldstein/ Instagram

The boho chic aesthetic is officially coming for your nails.

Gold-beaded tips are the most subtle touch of maximalism for sheer short nails.

Thanks to the shorter length, they’re etherealandedgy without doingtoomuch.

sheer baby pink short nails

@lolo.nailed it/INSTAGRAM

3D Hearts

@paintbox/ INSTAGRAM

When in doubt, a 3D detail never hurts.

These heart bubble nails are adorably charming, and the short length makes it even more captivating.

These muted green nails embody earthy, understated elegance.

sheer short nails with tomatos on them

@betina_goldstein/ INSTAGRAM

For the color-curious minimalist, these watercolor sunset nails are both dreamy and simple.

Flower Power

@georgieporgie.nails/ INSTAGRAM

you’re able to never go wrong with florals.

Elevate a nude manicure with dainty flower details that’ll add a whimsical touch to your natural nails.

tomato red manicure with purse and sunglasses in background

lolo.nailedit/ Instagram

Pastel French

@joysedition/ INSTAGRAM

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.

Colorful Accents

Short nails are the perfect canvas for playfully mismatched designs.

Nude short nails with gold beaded tips

@betina_goldstein/ Instagram

Play around with negative space for a minimalist look that’s simultaneously understated and striking.

Berry Bliss

@tinybrushes/ INSTAGRAM

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.

Short nails with silver chrome designs

@tinybrushes/IG

Precious Gemstones

@nailsbycanishea/ INSTAGRAM

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.

With a semi-translucent finish, these pink jelly nails will have you staring at your nails 24/7.

baby pink aura nails with a 3d bubble heart

@paintbox/ INSTAGRAM

muted green matcha latte nails

@melanated.mani/ INSTAGRAM

close up of pink and orange gradient manicure

lolo.nailedit/ Instagram

short nude nails with tiny flowers

@georgieporgie.nails/ INSTAGRAM

sheer nude short nails with baby yellow, pink, and teal french tips

@joysedition/ INSTAGRAM

sheer short nails with red, blue, and brown accents

@aliciatnails/ INSTAGRAM

short nails with strawberries and red french tips

@tinybrushes/ INSTAGRAM

silver metallic chrome short nails

@rsbnails/ INSTAGRAM

short nails with various precious gemstone designs

@nailsbycanishea/ INSTAGRAM

sheer translucent pink jelly nails

@soulinailsxo/ INSTAGRAM