Short Winter Nails to Swoon Over

Celebrities like Hailey Bieber, Megan Thee Stallion, Selena Gomez and so many others provide manicure inspiration like it’s their full-time job—and we adore it. Daily, they deliver countless swoon-worthy looks and new takes on industry trends, often donning long manicures. But sometimes it’s nice to take a break from extensions and embrace a shorter length. Luckily, the short winter nail looks are filled with chic options and offer something for every kind of manicure lover. Ahead, we’ve gathered 10 amazing ideas that deserve a spot on your mood board this season. From chrome finishes to classic candy apple red, there’s sure to be one (or more) of these short winter nails you’ll love.

Short Winter Nails We Love

1 / 10

Red Ovals

There’s no denying the sexiness of a patent red mani. If you want to shake up your usual look, try opting for a short oval shape instead of an almond or square tip.

2 / 10

Icy French Manicure

An almond French manicure can have just as much appeal with a shorter length. This set uses a cool blue polish for the tip and is accessorized with tiny silver pearls for an icy finish.

3 / 10

Me Espresso

If you were lucky enough to snag Sabrina Carpenter’s latest perfume, this manicure is the perfect pairing. Like a spritz of the fragrance, the espresso brown hue evokes major main character energy.

4 / 10

Pistachio

Ready to slip into something unexpected and stylish? Enter pistachio nails. Creamy, decadent and alluring, it’s a chic choice for your next winter manicure.

5 / 10

Crown Jewels

Short extensions are the perfect base for creating an artful look with nail jewelry. With a full-cover extension, you can glue on as many gemstones and jewels as your heart desires. Pro tip: A variety of stones and colors are ideal for replicating this treasure chest mani.

6 / 10

Naked Nails

Turns out barely there manis are just as interesting as those loaded down with gemstones. Take a cue from this set and go for the boring look with a sheer milky pink polish.

7 / 10

Micro French Manicure

Trust us, you don’t want to sleep on micro Frenchies. Like the original design, they ooze sophistication and elegance. Plus, they’re perfect for nailing a minimalist look.

8 / 10

Turquoise & Tortoiseshell

Animal print manicures are one of the season’s top trends. This manicure combines a sleek tortoiseshell print with French tips and turquoise polished nails. The combination may sound bizarre, but the chic look speaks volumes.

9 / 10

Frosted Sugar

The chrome effect has a soft and subdued look when paired with short, natural nails. Take a cue from this set and choose a pearl-colored polish to deliver maximum iridescent shine.

10 / 10

Fine Wine

‘Tis the season for red wine and burgundy-polished nails. Not only is the shade fitting for the cold weather outside, but it has a timeless elegance that’s hard not to love.