DIY designs and ideas for short nails
Joy Onuorah
In case you’ve had some trouble in the past picking out nail art and trends that work with your short nails, not again.
Here are some of the coolest short nail ideas and designs for you to try out ASAP.
Emerald green mani
This deep emerald polish is super simple while still keeping your short nails looking fresh and clean. To up the gloss factor, paint on a shiny topcoat to finish off your look.
Pink swirls
This mani is everything. The pink colours paired with the swirls prove that short nails can pack a punch without any loud neon hues or over-the-top glitter shades.

Green and blue design
Isn’t this green and blue manicure so freakin’ soothing? You’d just feel great looking at this colour combo.
Blue polka dot mani
Keep it cute and fun by opting for this blue and white polka-dot mani the next time you step into a nail salon.
Yin-and-Yang mani
Add a twist to the classic yin-and-yang manicure and copy this split-colour design for a slightly quirky but still cool vibe on your short nails.

Pink French
There are so many ways to rock a French manicure. If you’re looking for a more classic option that also looks great on short nails, swipe on a nude base shade, then add a sliver of pink to the top of your nails for a subtle pop of colour.

Multi-hued red mani
With curved, geometric lines and bold red hues, this manicure will be a show-stopper on short nails. Seriously, it’s guaranteed to turn heads.
Leopard print manicure
Leopard print doesn’t just have to be something you wear. You can rock these pretty spots on your short nails too.
Pink and white mani
Y’all, how cute is this pink manicure? And I love how the white stars add a super fun element without overpowering the look (or your short nails).

Patterned mani
Opt for nail art with shapes and patterns to give your manicure a more graphic look.
Yellow marble mani
Not only is the colour of this yellow manicure a great option for short nails but the marble design is so fresh and unique, you’ll have people doing double-takes at your fingers.

Pastel mani
Why pick just one nail colour when you can wear them all, right? This rainbow of pastel hues will look so damn dreamy on short nails.

White French mani
If you think you need extra-long nails to do a French manicure, think again. By using slim lines, you’re able to create a modern French that looks so pretty on short nails.
Two-toned pink mani
A subtle yet chic way to add some flair to your mani? Paint your nails in two shades of the same colour, instead of opting for just one. It adds a cool dimension to a short nail look.
So, which of these designs will you try first?