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We can safely assume that a good manicure is a universal beauty activity that has the power to lift our spirits. And while the colors and designs are seemingly endless, it can sometimes feel disheartening sitting down for a manicure if you have shorter nails. So, let's get one thing out of the way: Nails come in all shapes, sizes, and lengths, so there's no reason to be embarrassed that you don't have long tips. Sure, an astrological design or coffin shape works best on long nails, but there's myriad amazing manicure options for short lengths, too.
Take the gel manicure for example. Whether you opt for a solid polish or minimalist nail art, it will look amazing on every single nail length. The versatility of long-wear gel polish is exactly why gel manicures for short nails are trending.
"Gel manicures on short nails have become so popular because it's one of the fastest manicures to get, and the easiest to maintain," says Sarah Gibson Tuttle. She notes that a classic round shape is a solid option because of its practicality.
Meet the expert
Sarah Gibson Tuttle is the founder and CEO of Olive & June.
Everything You Need to Know About Getting Gel Manicures
When it comes to polish shades, the choice is yours — just like with any other length. Gibson Tuttle says that color can be fun to experiment with because "sometimes a long nail and bold color can feel like a major statement." Of course, classic shades like nudes and reds always look chic.
As for nail art, Gibson Tuttle suggests a French manicure, another big nail trend. "If you want to try a French manicure on a short nail, definitely do a skinny line at the tip instead of the wider, more traditional French widths," she says. "This way, the tip is an accent and doesn't take over your nail."
And if you do decide to grow out your nails, you can turn your old gel manicure into an intentional look. "Get a negative space half moon manicure," Gibson Tuttle recommends. "You can let it grow out as long as the gels last and it will look good the whole time."
Ready to book that manicure appointment? Here, we've rounded up our 10 favorite gel manicure ideas for short nails.
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Satin Chrome
Shiny iridescent polish with a satin finish? Nail art doesn't get easier than that. Plus, this pinkish chrome look is perfect for the bride-to-be.
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Skittle Nails
Not only are Skittle nails incredibly easy to do, the manicure works across all nail shapes and lengths.
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Classic Red
When in doubt, red gel polish is always a good idea, and monotone nails are always classic.
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French Manicure
The French manicure is back — and more creative than ever. This modern black and gold version has thin lines painted right below the tip of the nail to keep the look proportional.
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Gradient Nails
Paint each nail a different shade in the same color family to create a cool gradient effect. This is also the perfect design when you've chosen your polish color but can't decide on a shade, or want to match the season at hand.
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Negative Space Half Moons
This simple nail design looks great even when your gel manicure has grown out.
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Colorblock Swirls
Similar to half moons, retro swirls can be adapted to fit the length of your nails. Here, the shapes were added to opposite inner and outer corners of the nail in a darker shade of yellow for a fun contrast.
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Bedazzled Daisies
The early 2000s is one of the biggest inspirations for recent nail art trends. Why not channel three of the decade's most popular looks with this bedazzled daisy French manicure?
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Checkerboard
The checkerboard pattern continues to have a hold on both interior design and nail art trends. Given that the simple pattern takes time and effort to nail, extend the life of your manicure by doing your nails with gel polish.
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Leopard Edges
You've probably heard it before and we'll say it again: leopard print is neutral because the pattern looks amazing with any color. Create a border around a bare nail bed or paint it any solid color for a bolder look.
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