The Coolest Manicure Inspo According To An Editor Who's Loyal To Short Nails (2024)

As a beauty editor, I've always thought my short nails were destined to a lifetime of basic manicures. Social media and hand models made me believe that in order to have nail art designs such as French tips and 3D showstoppers, I had to be blessed with long nail beds to provide extra canvas space for intricate artwork.

I've been loyal to short nails for as long as I can remember. As someone who doesn't like being precious with her hands and plays a close contact sport in her spare time, having long nails is not just impractical, it's also dangerous for both me and my team mates. Plus, my natural nails break easily. Having them trimmed and neat is a non-negotiable.

For a long time, I've kept them either bare or gently buffed for shine, but since stumbling upon Japanese and Korean nail art Instagram accounts (I love @nail_gamseong and @peaknail), I have a newfound appreciation for just how beautiful short nail designs can be. The trick lies in playing with texture and finishes rather than heavy-handed patterns, and keeping any illustrations - be it dots or swirls - delicate and minimalist. As a dedicated Taylor Swift fan, seeing the singer proudly wearing her nails short every time she performs (as most musicians who plays the guitar do) has inspired me to experiment with mine, too. Swift doesn't shy away from sporting a full-on glitter ball manicure or incorporating tiny stars on them.

Nail artist Iram Shelton, who's worked with Cara Delevingne and Priyanka Chopra, has always adored a shorter style. 'I absolutely love short nails. They’re so elegant and easy to maintain,' she tells ELLE UK. 'Short is such a timeless and classic look, and makes you appear instantly put together.'

If nail art is not your thing, a single colour can just be as impactful. 'I love a super glossy, dark nail,' she says. Shelton is a fan of black and burgundy hues, and namechecks OPI Raisin' The Bar and Chanel's Rouge Noir as her favourite shades, alongside neutrals such as OPI Brown To Earth. Butter yellow, Matcha green and chrome finishes are also head-turning options that feels right all year long.

Ahead, the coolest short nail designs that I've been saving up for my next manicure

Don't underestimate the aesthetically-pleasing prowess of a single-hue manicure. An unexpected colour, like this powdery lilac, takes it up a notch.

This light-catching design will have you sparkling for days.

A discreet little dot on a base of BioSculpture's Transparent Beauty is perfect for nail minimalists.

If you haven't experimented with Japanese nail art yet, this is your sign to finally do so. Expect the most ethereal finish and delightful designs that are guaranteed to spark conversations.

This reverse-French manicure with Tiffany blue crescents are an excellent way for brides to incorporate their 'something blue' (or for non-brides who love a bit of subtle colour).

Gentle gold swirls on a creamy base make for a high-impact finish that's wearable for both work and play.

Don't let short nails deter you from intricate designs. Alternate it with plain nails to keep things from looking too busy.

Only nail extraordinaire Betina Goldstein could turn red shrimps into something covetable and chic. This will inspire double takes of the best kind.

A jelly-like finish lends an otherworldly feel to this manicure.

Lean into your dark side with a gothic take on pretty butterfly wings.

Time to leave Brat summer behind and embrace a warmer, earthier take on green for autumn.

Can't decide on a colour? Nail artist Queenie Nguyen demonstrates just how cool the multi-coloured manicure can be when done with harmonious shades and a simple design.

A pearl-framed single thumbnail makes for a simple but beautiful accent nail.

A monochrome mani is a fashion week favourite. Swap a prim white French tip for onyx ones for a sophisticated twist.