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20 Fabulous Short Nail Trends to Know Now in 2023

Short nails are having a moment and show no signs of going out of style anytime soon. Whether you’re looking for a trendy new look or just want to keep your nails simple yet chic, read on for the latest short nail trends in 2023!

1. Negative Space

Negative Space nails have been gaining traction as the latest short nail trend. Perfect for those who want to keep their manicure subtle yet eye-catching, these manis are all about leaving a little – or a lot – of breathing room. 

@hannahtaylor

2. Daisy Nail Art

This trend is perfect for expressing yourself in a new way and showing off your style. Whether you choose a simple daisy nail design or go for a bit more intricate look, there are plenty of possibilities when it comes to flower nail art.

@hannahtaylor

3. Gold Leaf

Gold leaf nail art is one of the most exciting nail trends this season! The key for successful gold leaf nail art is making sure you use top quality products and take your time with each step. 

@holliebarkernailartist


4. Pastel French

Pastel French manicures are the nail trend of the moment – especially for those with short nails! Think buttercup yellows and cutesy lilacs, encouraging us to embrace our inner girly-girl. Thankfully, this nail trend is a softer, more subtle take on traditional nail designs yet just as stylish! 

@holliebarkernailartist

5. Gradient 

The newest nail art trend for 2023 is a gradient nail design. Gradients are nail designs created by using 5 shades of the same color on each nail and creating a gradient effect from nail to nail. This style is super cute, fun and adds a unique bit of visual interest to your nails. 

@holliebarkernailartist

6. Yin Yang

Who knew nail designs could teach us something? Enter the yin yang nail design! Yin and yang is all about balance — two halves creating a harmonious whole with neither overshadowing the other. You can play around with nail art techniques, such as glitter and rhinestones, to bring this timeless concept to life on your fingertips!

@ivynailart

7. Swirly

Short swirly nails have become all the rage in recent months – and for good reason! They’re just so darn cute! The ability to express yourself with a manicure is unlike any other, and swirly nails certainly bring a new depth to nail art. 

@charsgelnails

8. Monochrome

If you’re looking for an eye-catching, trendy style for your short nails, why not try out a monochrome manicure? It takes just seconds to create and looks super chic! All you have to do is add a statement shade to your existing nails – think black or white – either solo or as an accent polish. 

@peachinails

9. Hearts

For something simple but still cute for your next manicure, look no further than short nails with hearts. This look is so easy to recreate and instantly adds some love and brightness to any outfit! 

@peachinails

10. Tortoise

Tortoise print nails are the cutest way to show off your chic style this season! Whether it’s an accent nail or every nail adorned with a tortoise print, you’ll definitely stand out in the crowd and feel super sophisticated. 

@nailsbydannimoore

11. Glazed Donut

Have you ever wanted donuts so badly that you even wanted them on your nails? Well, you’re in luck! The glazed donut nail design is a fun and pretty way to express your love for donuts. 

@iramshelton

12. Half Moons

Half moons have stars since becoming a popular nail design to rock. This nail design is super cute and can be worn on any nail shape in so many different colors. It is versatile enough that you can be creative with it and make the nail art uniquely your own. 

@iramshelton

13. Glitter Ombre

Sparkle and shine your way through the world with glitter ombre short nails! This magical look is perfect for anyone who wants a short nail style that has a little extra pizzazz – graduation parties, birthdays, or any other celebratory event calls for some glitz and glamour.

@iramshelton

14. Tie Dye

With all the trendiness of tie-dye apparel, why not express your style on your fingertips? Even better, tie-dye nails are surprisingly easy to create. All you need is some brightly-colored nail polish and white polish as a base coat. The result will be candy-colored cheerful fingers that bring life to any look!

@maniwithsami

15. Lilac

Ah, lilac. Such a classic! Everyone’s favorite soft yet eye-catching hue on short nails is a staple of summertime styles. Its light, airy color complements any outfit and makes for a great everyday manicure in 2023. 

@byleahx

16. Florals

Florals are the perfect way to brighten up short nails! No matter if you prefer roses or poppies, there’s always a flower for everyone. Depending on your mood, choose colors and designs that best express it. 

@nailsbyravi

17. Smiley Faces

Smiley faces have been all over nail design trends lately and they’re totally too cute to resist! These sunny little drawings can bring a smile to any face with their cheerful charm. 

@annagracenails

18. Marble

Creating a marble nail design can feel daunting if you have short nails, but it doesn’t have to be! Marble designs are so fun and unique that you can customize them any way you want. 

@bysarah

19. Sparkly Tips

Whether you want to add some sparkle to a night out or your nails need an extra bit of pizzazz, sparkly tips can be the perfect go-to. These precious pieces of glam take nails from dull to dazzling in just minutes.

@jemnails

20. Two-Toned

Two-toned nails are a fresh, stylish way to switch up your look. They can be subtle and ladylike if you go for colors like nude and dusty pink, or bright and fun if you combine brighter shades like hot pink and yellow. 

@joelyoceannails