Short Nails Are In Again Thanks to Zendaya, Megan Thee Stallion, and More

Updated on Feb 5, 2025 at 6:10 PM

Whether it's a minimal geometric sticker or a full-on 3D work of art, let's face it: nail art can take a manicure from good to spectacular. Typically, these designs have been relegated to long nail lengths, but we're here to tell you that nail art for short nails can be just as impactful. Though you don't have as much space, don't feel like your nail-art options are limited just because you're dealing with a shorter length.

"When selecting nail art designs for short nails, it's best to keep things simple," celebrity nail stylist Mazz Hanna says. "Working with negative space in the nail plate can be a great way to do something fun and understated. Some of my go-to designs for short nails are micro french lines, metallic cuffs, and simple geometric work on a neutral base. They all look super chic on a shorter nail."

Mazz Hanna is a celebrity nail stylist and CEO of Nailing Hollywood.

Lily Nguyen is a nail artist and founder of Labo Beaute Nail Salon.

The resurgence of short nails also proves that there's beauty in simplicity. "Short nails are no longer just a necessity for those who can't maintain long acrylics; they're a fashion statement in their own right," nail artist Lily Nguyen says. From micro french manicures to velvet and chrome finishes, the options for rocking short nails are endless. They also promote healthier nails and provide practicality and comfort instead of extensions that can break down the nails over time.

Celebrities have given their stamp of approval for short nails for decades, with a renewed obsession for them in recent years. Whether you're looking at Zendaya's "strawberry milk" engagement nails or Megan Thee Stallion's mismatched nails for Paris Fashion Week, inspiration from the stars is far from lacking. Of course, social media has tons of short-nail ideas that are mood board-worthy (even enough to influence you to book your next appointment), so take a scroll through some of our top favorites below.

Megan Thee Stallion's Mismatched Short Nails

If you think short nails aren't any fun, take notes from Megan Thee Stallion, who wore a mismatched set consisting of multiple colors like orange chrome and quartz designs for Paris Haute Couture Week.

Mix-and-Match Short Nails

Whether you're going on a tropical getaway or just in the mood for a summery set, this mix-and-match short nail design featuring flowers and checkers will satisfy all your manicure needs.

Minimal Short Nails

These chocolate dots over a neutral base are the perfect short gel nail design to try, no matter what season you're in.

Tennis Ball Short Nails

Whoever said short nails are boring has clearly never seen this vibrant blue and tennis ball-inspired set.

Short Nails With Simple Dots

If you're into minimalism but crave a pop of color, this nude set with red gradient dots is perfect to elevate your short nail gel manicure.

Floral Short Nails

Floral nail art makes any manicure stand out, and this one stays within a color family to make the manicure look more cohesive.

Abstract Black and White Short Nails

This abstract black and white short nail design featuring white bold dots is another great option for those who want to make a subtle statement with their manicure.

Short Nails With Color Block Swirls

How cool is this color block swirl set? Play with different colors like this lime green and hot pink combo to create a fun, short manicure.

Short Nails With Minimal Florals

If you're an extreme minimalist but want to make a subtle statement with your nails, this floral set featuring black corners and mini white orchards is the ideal short nail design for you.

Short Nails With Neutral Reverse French Corners

This unconventional yet sophisticated twist on the timeless french set is another chic option if you're new to the short nail lifestyle.

Short Nails With Black Swirls and Pearls

This classy short nail design, featuring white pearls and sophisticated black swirls, is simply perfect, especially for a special event.

— Additional reporting by Naomi Parris

Naomi Parris is a New York-based fashion and beauty writer with over seven years of experience. She served as an editorial operations associate at PS, specializing in all things fashion. Her work has also been seen in Elle, Essence Girls United, Bustle, and Elite Daily. Obsessed with telling stories that merge fashion and culture, her areas of expertise include Fashion Week coverage, high-profile interviews, shopping roundups, op-eds, and beauty stories.

Ariel Baker is the former assistant editor for PS Beauty.