Short nails have proved the dominating beauty trend of 2023—here's the best nail art designs out there
And the best products to achieve a chic finish
![Short nails](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/uvDQDQ4NRH82dUGyGdCEGF-415-80.jpg)
When scrolling through 2023 nail trends, there’s so much inspiration to get through that we simply don’t have enough fingers to try out all of the designs we want to. So far this year we've had blueberry milk nails, cold chrome nails and even the tuxedo French manicure, to name just a few. And in years gone by, nail trends haven't particularly lent themselves to those with short nails.
But, if this year's best nail designs have proved anything it’s that short nails can have just as much fun as longer, almond shapes can. Manicurists like Julia Diogo and Harriet Westmoreland have put short nails back into the spotlight, making the once forgotten about length worth talking about.
Ahead, we’ve gathered some of the best inspiration for short nails, so you never feel left out of nail art action ever again.
1. Chrome stars
A post shared by Lydiette Lopez (@nailsbylydiette)
A photo posted by on
These purple chrome stars are detailed, intricate and feature on short square nails.
2. Electric blue
A post shared by Gabriela Santiago (@gelpolish_bar)
A photo posted by on
Blue is up there with one of our favourite nail colour trends of 2023, and it looks exceptionally great on short, perfectly preened nails.
3. Reverse french
A post shared by Julia Diogo (@paintedbyjools)
A photo posted by on
The reverse french is an elegant way of trying a classic white-tip mani without needing a long tip. That's because you add a white cuff at the base of the nail instead, giving this beautiful result.
4. Dreamy clouds
A post shared by 𝙉𝘼𝙄𝙇𝙎 𝘽𝘼𝘽 (@nails.bab)
A photo posted by on
If you didn't think a dreamy cloud scene on your short nails was possible, check this stunning design out and think again. The magic in this one is in the tiny details and the matte top coat.
Marie Claire Newsletter
Celebrity news, beauty, fashion advice, and fascinating features, delivered straight to your inbox!
5. Gold cuffs
A post shared by Beaut Nails by Emma (@beaut_nails_by_emma)
A photo posted by on
If you want to try out french manicure trends but don't want to go micro on the french, then try out a cuff instead. This uses a smaller amount of polish in an off-centre design to give pretty accents, without the distinct line on the free edge.
6. Matte patterns
A post shared by TJ (Your Next Nail Guy) (@nailboii)
A photo posted by on
Who said short nails can't have detailed art painted on them? Not us. This design shows what's possible on each tiny canvas, and we particularly love that it's sealed with a matte top coat for extra definition.
7. Sheer pink
A post shared by Faye Louise Dennis (@fayelouisedennis)
A photo posted by on
Sometimes the best manicures at the simplest, and there's nothing like a clean, fresh sheer pink set.
8. Croc nails
A post shared by No.29 Nail Lounge (@no29naillounge)
A photo posted by on
This manicure is guaranteed to get a lot of attention. It's one to take to your nail tech, though, as you'll need something called blooming gel and a lot of know-how.
Tori is a freelance beauty journalist and contributor for Marie Claire. She has written for various titles, including Allure, Glamour, Elle, Refinery29, Brides, and more. Currently training to be a nail tech, Tori is a total nail enthusiast and always has time to talk all things nail art. When she’s not writing about beauty and testing products, Tori can be found walking her rescue dog Pip, drinking great coffee, and eating as many croissants as humanly possible.
-
Anissa Kermiche on why being a dreamer is her super power
By Penny Goldstone
-
I'm a shopping expert, and I know these shoes are set to triumph as the hot new retro trainers
I want them all
By Sofia Piza
-
How to say ‘no’ to anything and why we should all be more discerning with saying ‘yes’
Author Natalie Lue makes a case for finding the joy of saying no
By Mischa Anouk Smith
-
In need of inspiration? These 12 nail trends are the chicest manicure looks for older women
The best shapes, shades and styles
By Jazzria Harris
-
These 15 holiday nail designs are so chic and uplifting—I can't stop staring
From sculpted shells to sunset hues, I’ve got you covered
By Jazzria Harris
-
I'm a nail tech, and I'm naming the 'naked' manicure 2024's most underrated nail trend
The mani for people who don’t like manis
By Tori Crowther
-
I'm not a big fan of festive nails, but these 6 party-ready designs are undeniably chic
All the party season manicure inspo you could need this season
By Lucy Abbersteen
-
Cold chrome nails are going to dominate the rest of 2023—here's the proof
9 looks for your next salon appointment
By Mica Ricketts
-
According to manicure experts, these are the best red nail polish looks this season
Everything from deep wine tones to bold apple reds, plus all the manicure inspo you need
By Lucy Abbersteen
-
Sheer nails will continue to dominate 2023—here are the best nail polishes for a chic, effortless finish
Guaranteed sophistication
By Rebecca Fearn
-
These autumnal nail trends come approved by the royals—and we want to copy them
Give your nails the royal treatment for the new season
By Lauren Hughes