The Chicest Short Almond Nail Designs for a Subtle Luxe Look

Gerstein recently created these softly diffused blooms that melt into the base. She says, “Modern and organic, this look brings movement and one-of-a-kind designs.”

You can’t go wrong with classic. “It’s polished and subtle, with a tone that adapts beautifully to every skin tone,” says Gerstein.

Bright nails bring the best vibes. Plus, “a gentle wash of color creates depth while keeping the nail light and rounded,” says Gerstein. Chillhouse even makes a press-on version of the chic design.

Gerstein designed these milky white, mini floral nails, and I can’t get enough of them. She explains, “It’s scaled-down florals that feel intentional and refined, never busy.”

You should never be afraid to let your real nails shine through a design. “Clean lines and subtle dots or cutouts let the natural nail be seen while creating a unique look.” Not read to go au naturel? Utilize press-ons like this sweet polka dot set.

Red nails are always in—whether you go for a deep burgundy or bright cherry. “Short almond makes red feel confident and timeless,” says Gerstein. “Precision and finish are everything.”

From iridescent to basic silver chrome, a soft glaze always delivers a sheer, luminous finish that catches the light without overpowering the design.

Nothing beats the magnetic glimmer of cat-eye polish. Especially in neutral tones, Gerstein says, “Magnetic movement in soft taupes and beiges or silvers adds dimension while staying wearable.”

French nails are timeless and chic on every nail shape, but especially short almond nails.

Chocolate brown nails are a fall and winter staple. By adding pops of colorful airbrush, this mani looks like luxury.

I believe navy nails are highly underrated. They elongate your tips and match every outfit. What’s not to love?

Spice up your basic mani with a fun, chic shape. These maroon stars are a personal favorite.

The polka dot trend will never die in my eyes. These nails, for example, use a pink cat-eye polish as the base and top off the look with little white dots.

This cool-girl mani is simpler to create than it seems. Pick any colors of your pleasing, and use a small detail brush to paint on some stripes.

Who doesn’t love to play with texture? This fun design combines matte and glossy top coats to create a textured French tip.

Shorter nails don’t have to mean simple designs. This look uses 3D appliqués, metallic top coats, and multi-colored patterns.

This mani utilizes chrome powder in a unique and ultra-chic way. Take any design you want—dots, swirls, stripes, etc.—and top them off with a chrome finish.

If a French tip feels too boring, swap out the white polish for a tortoise shell design. Because, why not?