Choosing the perfect nail polish color is important, but the first step is deciding on the nail shape. If you have some nail length, an almond shape is a stylish choice. Almond-shaped nails require a bit of length to achieve their slightly pointed look. However, if you prefer shorter nails, you’ll be happy to know there are plenty of short almond nail designs you can find on Instagram.
We’ve curated 35 of our favorite short almond nail designs. While some may be a bit longer than what you consider short, remember that almond nails can be quite long. So, think of these as a modest middle ground.
Blurry Airbrush
This peachy pink look with a blurry airbrush effect and white twinkle star designs is a nod to the popular aura nails trend.
Pink and Orange
Abstract pink and orange nails are easy to create. Swipe on a couple of coats and add a few small black dots.
Rainbow Tips
Two-toned rainbow tips are a bright, modern twist on the classic French manicure.
Butterfly Beauties
Love Instagram’s butterfly filter? Replicate the look of your almond-shaped nails.
Dainty Florals
These floral nails feature a milky-white base, embracing the milky-white manicure trend.
Opal Shell
Opalescent nails that look nude in some lights and magically reflective in others.
Tortoiseshell Nails
Inspired by everyone’s favorite accessory material, this look is perfect for your next manicure.
Turquoise + Gold
Gemstone-inspired turquoise and gold details make these almond-shaped nails a true work of art.
Pale Pink Fade
Pretty pink nails never go out of style, and we have 40 pink nail designs to prove it.
Bold Abstract
Express yourself with a mix of colors, shapes, and designs for an Insta-worthy abstract manicure.
Vampy
A polished, dark monochrome manicure perfect for fall vibes.
Negative Space Details
Peach, periwinkle, and pale pink come together for a pastel masterpiece. Use French manicure stickers to section off nails or get expert help.
Neon Jelly Hearts
Jelly manicures remain popular. Look closely to find tiny hidden hearts in each nail.
Mermaid-Inspired Teal Nails
High-contrast teal nails are reminiscent of mermaids and warm sea days.
Metallic Mermaid
This metallic polish shifts colors with the light, giving major mermaid vibes.
Geometric French Tips
Sharp lines and dark black polish make almond-shaped nails look like stilettos.
Simple Dots
A clear coat with colorful dots highlights the length you have.
Pastel Neons
Cheerful pastel neon nails welcome spring and summer with playful colors.
Rainbow Confetti
Perfect for glitter lovers, these rainbow confetti nails are show-stopping.
Siren Chrome
The holographic shimmer adds shine, and the chain detail gives a rock-and-roll edge.
Tonal Wave
Different shades of red create a modern twist on a retro palette.
Crystal Craze
Blush pink base, white veins, and metallic gold details make these rose quartz nails sparkle.
Thermal Nails
Color-changing polish based on the temperature creates an ombré effect.
Rose Gold Glitter
Minimalist rose gold-tipped manicure from Paintbox, a New York City nail studio known for bold colors and shimmer.
Baby Blues
Baby blue nails with a tiny black dot at the base add a subtle design detail.
Heart Tips
Olive & June Heart Stickers in various shades make any DIY mani fun and easy.
Peaches and Pearls
A nude-peach manicure with sweet pearl decals at the base of two nails.
Glitter French Tips
Glittery French manicure that’s work-appropriate and fun for vacations.
Leopard Print
Short almond-shaped nails can rock a funky leopard print without being overbearing.
Etched Lines
Peach and blue colors with black etched lines create a modern art-inspired mani.
Red Drip
An edgy red drip manicure, perfect for anticipating Halloween.
Purple Halo
Holographic deep purple polish on almond-shaped nails makes a bold statement.
Pressed Florals
Delicate hand-painted floral designs give major spring vibes.
Pattern Mixing
Combine eclectic colors and funky patterns for a maximalist almond-shaped nail design.
Retro Abstract
Chic abstract shapes in blue, green, and white evoke Pucci vibes, perfect for shorter nails.
