Yes, short nails are in style: 10 short & chic manicure ideas

Get inspiration for your 2025 manicure with these 10 designs and colours - plus a nail expert tells why short nails are so versatile

By Mariana Chacón

August 27, 2025Aug 27, 2025, 6:00 PM GMT+1

Short on length, big on style: Why short nails are the ultimate accessory

"I personally think that short nails are super versatile," says Warwickshire-based manicurist Megan Rose, known as @gel.bymegan on Instagram, whose short nail designs serve as the ultimate inspiration. "A sheer barely there shade for a 'your nails but better' manicure is a huge favourite in my studio, but equally a bold, solid shade such as a red, chocolate brown or a Riviera blue all look so chic on short nails!"

And yes, contrary to popular belief, the classic French manicure is also suitable for shorter nails. "People tend to think a French manicure isn’t possible on a short nail, but I think you can have so much fun experimenting with micro-French designs, whether it be a classic white tip or something bright to suit the season," says Megan. "It's a great way to have some fun with short nails.”

Trends you can wear: From 'milky nails' to micro-French manicures

To get your creative juices flowing, we've rustled up 10 universally flattering ideas for inspiration, with real-life examples straight from Megan's salon. These trending nail looks are all hot for 2025 and look amazing on short nails. Believe me, you'll be thoroughly convinced you can rock a fresh look for your nails, no matter what their length or the time of year.

I've included some timeless favourites like classic red - yes, the bold hue looks great on short nails, too! - but have also made room for Hailey Bieber-style 'glazed' nails, pretty floral designs and '90s-inspired looks, too. For French manicure fans, there's also a playful micro-French twist on the classic that's a great option for shorter nails.

1/10

The TikTok viral glazed and glossy manicure looks amazing on short nails

'Glazed Donut' Pink

The finish that Hailey Bieber made famous is still trending right now, with options from more sheer iridescent nudes and whites to this glossy pink. It's the ideal pick for the romantics among us, and the perfect manicure for weddings.

2/10

Vintage vibes: Short burgundy nails bring to mind Uma Thurman's iconic Chanel 'Vamp' nails in 1994's Pulp Fiction

Burgundy

If you want major drama, burgundy never fails! And while some save these hues for the colder months (yes, burgundy and maroon are still hot in fashion, too, for autumn-winter 2025) the truth is they're so chic that they're a cracking option 365 days a year. This colour looks fantastic on short nails, giving a true vintage '90s vibe.

3/10

With its pearly sheen, this style is positively angelic on short nails

Pearlescent

How elegant are these nails? Sophisticated and ethereal with a luminous soft pearl sheen, this manicure is the one for you if you fancy a minimalist nail look that turns heads without bright hues. The best bit is its versatility – it works for summer holidays and winter, too, and everywhere from weddings to the office.

4/10

Bring a hint of passion to your short manicure with bold, timeless red

Classic Red

This is the go-to choice for those who are head over heels for the perfect blend of vibrant colour, Hollywood glamour and elegance that defines a pure red. It works a treat with any outfit, looks just as good on extra-short or long nails, and there's a shade for every skin tone.

5/10

A pretty floral design for short nails

Floral design

While more elaborate embellishment might feel too daring for some, that's certainly not the case when it comes to these dainty, artful flowers. You can play around with the size of the flower, the colours, and number of blooms for a truly bespoke result.

6/10

Manicurist Megan Rose recommends experimenting with micro-French designs on short nails

Micro-French manicure with colour

A French manicure can also look amazing on short nails and, a micro-French with a colourful twist like the light blue detail, above, is the perfect way to add playfulness without sacrificing elegance. From bold colours to pastels and summer's neon shades, the sky's the limit when it comes to personalising this classic.

7/10

The 'Clean Girl' aesthetic has found its short nail manicure with this trend

Milky nails

Polished, clean and sophisticated - that sums up the "milky nails" trend. This subtle yet elegant manicure has become a firm favourite among those who adore a minimalist but elevated look. It's the ideal choice for disguising nail imperfections, too, or if you want a low maintenance colour choice.

8/10

Dot nail designs are a fun twist on a short nail manicure, and colours can be tailored to any season or event

Dot design

A fun and simply chic look you can adapt to any season, this design features small dots that can be subtle or striking, depending on the colours you choose. In the manicure above a small red dot adorns each nail's neutral shade, adding a pop of colour.

9/10

Did someone say luxe? Short lavender nails are Sofia Richie approved

Lavender

This gorgeous colour looks especially flattering on short nails, and will undoubtedly be your pick if you are someone who's looking for a pretty hue that also has a lot of personality. Both Sofia Richie and Selena Gomez are fans.

10/10

Butter yellow isn't just for fashion - it also is the perfect hue for a short manicure

Pastels

From lilac to powder pink or baby blue - not to mention oh-so-fashionable butter yellow - pastel shades are another way to embrace beautiful colours. These are modern classics that are soft, sweet and versatile, adapt to any occasion and look absolutely brilliant on short nails.

Transform your routine with expert advice from our beauty and wellness team!

By entering your details, you are agreeing to HELLO! Magazine User Data Protection Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. For more information please click here.