These Nail Art Designs Are Perfect for Short Nails (2024)

FAQs

What is the best nail design for short nails? ›

A micro French manicure is a great look on short nails because you can keep the line super fine. For added interest, you can double up and make a French with two lines. "Nail artist Hang Nguyen created this glitter micro French look using a fine liner nail art brush and a gold glitter polish," says Hanna.

Acrylic manicure is the go-to style for people with short nails. It adds more length to your natural nails and can last as long as three weeks. To create an acrylic nail, your manicurist uses powder polymer and a liquid monomer that forms a hard acrylic layer that resembles your natural nails.

While short nails nail art can be tricky, that doesn't mean it isn't possible. Varying from marble nails to French manicures with a bit of a twist, the possibilities of simple short nail designsare endless. So don't the length of your nails stop you from having a little bit of fun with them.

Stay with nude or pastel nail colours to make your nails look longer than they are. A nude manicure is perfect for everyday wear since it matches with every kind of outfit.

Really short nails look better with lighter more neutral colors on them. So stay sheer with polish and always make sure all of your nails are neatly filed and your cuticles are trimmed.

Oval. The oval shape is similar to an almond, but the tip is filed to mimic an egg-like appearance. This elongating shape works well for small hands with shorter fingers. "It tends to make the nail look longer since it's filed in on the sides," says Mary Lennon, "which adds length and subtle drama."

Gel nails are less likely to cause damage to natural nails than acrylic nails. They are less harsh on the natural nails during the application and removal process, which can be beneficial for people with weaker nails.

The truth is you can get acrylic nails even when your natural nails are short. If, however, your natural nails are damaged or diseased, you must postpone the idea of getting a nail art with acrylic nails till your nails are healthy again. Yes, you can have short acrylic nails.

Nude and pastel colors are a great choice for short nails, as they actively make them look longer. Because they visually appear like they're continuing your finger line, they make your fingers look thinner and slimmer.

What nail art grows out nicely? ›

Abstract shapes, geometric designs, and even mismatched nail art can all grow out nicely. The key here is to look for negative space manicures on a clear or neutral nail polish base. By focusing the nail art on the tips of your fingers, there's room for your nails to grow without compromising the design.

Let's be very clear: We love nail art as much as the next person, but we're firm believers that, as pretty as fully outfitted nails can be, you don't always need five done-up designs to make a statement. In fact, sometimes all it takes is one or two accent nails to create a picture-perfect manicure.

Lighter Tones: Choose lighter shades of any color, such as pastels or light grays. Lighter tones help to brighten the hands and create a more youthful appearance. Sheer and Natural Finishes: Consider using sheer or natural finishes, like a sheer pink or a clear coat.

Another tip to make short nails appear longer is to avoid painting all the way to the edge of the nail on both sides -- leave a slight gap instead. This will make your nails appear thinner and longer. Don't worry too much if you get polish on your fingers, you can clean it up afterwards.

If you have short palms and short fingers, it's best to opt for rounded oval and almond shapes. For longer palms and fingers, consider dramatic stiletto or coffin (or ballerina) shaped styles. Almond shaped nails tend to suit everyone.

I want to get my nails done but I'm so embarrassed because I bite them a lot – is there something you can do for me? A question we get asked quite often. And we have some good news for nail-biters. Individually sculpted gel nail extensions are the answer.