Summer is all about effortless beauty, and that includes your nails! If you love the look of fresh, stylish nails but don’t want to deal with high-maintenance designs (like me!), short summer nails are the perfect solution.
Here are 15+ chic and low-maintenance summer nail designs that are perfect for short nails!
Glossy Nude Perfection
First, a classic. A soft, neutral shade—sandy beige, warm caramel, or creamy taupe.
How to Create the Look:
- Choose a nude polish that complements your skin tone.
- Apply two coats for a smooth, even finish.
- Seal with a high-shine top coat for a glassy effect.
Sheer Pink Simplicity
A barely-there pink wash enhances the natural beauty of the nails, giving them a soft, feminine glow.
How to Create the Look:
- Use a sheer pink or milky polish for a natural look.
- Apply one to two thin coats to keep it lightweight.
- Finish with a glossy top coat or a subtle pearl sheen.
French Tip Refresh
A modern take on the French manicure, with short nails featuring micro French tips in crisp white, soft pastels, or trendy summer hues like peach and sky blue.
How to Create the Look:
- Start with a clear or sheer pink base.
- Use a thin nail brush or guide stickers to apply the tips.
- Experiment with soft peach, mint green, or lilac for a summery vibe.
Pastel Ombré
Like cotton candy, you can create a seamless gradient of soft pastels, such as baby blue to lavender or peach to pink, blends beautifully across the nails.
How to Create the Look:
- Use a makeup sponge to dab on two colors for a soft fade.
- Blend pastel tones for a subtle ombré effect.
- Top it off with a glossy or matte finish.
Sunny Yellow Pop
A cheerful, buttery yellow, radiating sunshine and happiness. Perfect for when you are planning to head out for a picnic, in a yellow sundress.
How to Create the Look:
- Choose a soft pastel yellow for a chic, wearable look.
- Apply two coats for full coverage.
- Pair with minimalist gold rings for extra elegance.
Soft Peach Sorbet
A juicy, peach-toned manicure that’s equal parts refreshing and chic—perfect for warm summer days.
How to Create the Look:
- Opt for a peach or apricot polish with warm undertones.
- Keep it solid or add a matte top coat for a velvety finish.
- Pair with gold accents or subtle shimmer for a luxe touch.
Minimalist Dot Nails
A chic and understated look featuring a single dot of color on each nail—simple, artsy, and effortlessly stylish. I love matcha so it had to be green dots for me!
How to Create the Look:
- Start with a clear or nude base coat.
- Use a dotting tool or the tip of a bobby pin to create a small dot.
- Choose black, white, or a pop of color for the dot.
Chic Coral Nails
Vibrant yet polished coral nails that scream summer fun without being over-the-top.
How to Create the Look:
- Choose a soft coral or pinkish-orange shade.
- Keep it short and square-shaped for a neat look.
- Apply a gel-like top coat for extra shine and durability.
Milky White Nails
A clean, milky white manicure that gives a soft, airy look—like a summer cloud.
How to Create the Look:
- Use a semi-sheer white polish.
- Apply thin layers for an effortless, translucent effect.
- Finish with a high-shine or satin top coat.
Baby Blue Breeze
A light blue shade that mimics clear summer skies and ocean waves. This would be perfect if you’re already planning for a weekend coastal getaway.
How to Create the Look:
- Pick a soft powder blue or periwinkle shade.
- Keep the shape rounded or oval for an elegant touch.
- Add a glossy or pearlized top coat for extra dimension.
Soft Lavender Love
A muted lavender polish with a subtle glossy finish.
Glazed Peach Glow
A peachy shade with sheer chrome powder for a Hailey Bieber-inspired look.
Ocean Waves
A marble blue and white swirl for a breezy, beachy aesthetic.
Peach & Gold Foil
A nude-peach base with gold leaf accents for a luxe look.
Blush Pink Matte
A soft pink matte finish for a modern yet feminine vibe.
Short nails don’t mean sacrificing style! These chic, simple nail ideas are ideal for keeping your nails looking fresh, trendy, and effortless (sans any maintenance!) all season long.
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