Long nails may be all the rage right now, but there’s definitely still room for short nails to have their moment. As stars like Sofia Richie Grainge can attest, short nails can be just as elegant and chic as their longer counterparts. If you work with your hands a lot, short nails are a much more practical option than long claws, plus they go well with a more natural beauty look, if that’s your aesthetic.
No matter your nail length, maintaining strong, healthy nails will always improve any design. “Cuticle oil will be your best friend as it will keep your nails in a healthy condition, which in turn will help strengthen and maintain your desired nail length,” says nail artist Faye Louise Dennisthat the Elim Cuticle MDan antibacterial cuticle rescue with a blend of ten oils to keep cuticles in top condition.
With that in mind, here it is Fashion‘s guide to some of the best short nail designs.
The micro-French
It’s not about making your nail look longer, but anything that makes your nail longer bed appearing elongated will only add to the elegance. “I always recommend designs that extend your natural nails to create the effect of longer nail beds,” says Dennis. “Opting for a micro French manicure over a thicker tip, or having fun with a reverse French tip where the line kisses your cuticles, is a great design to have some fun with color.”