Style Nails Polishes That Look Perfect on Short Nails Meet your new mani must-haves. By Southern Living Editors Southern Living Editors Since 1966, the editors of Southern Living have been carrying out the mission of the brand: to bring enjoyment, fulfillment, and inspiration to our readers by celebrating life in the South. We inspire creativity in their homes, their kitchens, their gardens, and their personal style. We are a friend they can trust, a guide to the seasons, a helping hand during the holidays, and a relentless champion of the Southern way of life. Southern Living's editorial guidelines Updated on February 5, 2021 Share Tweet Pin Email We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best products—learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Photo: Getty/svetikd Short nails are chic. Whether your nails are short out of necessity, convenience, or as a result of that acrylic habit you just couldn't quit in the 90s, short nails are just begging for a nice neutral to really set them a sparkle. Soft beiges, pinks, mauves, and more can create a longer appearance while imparting a classic look that never goes out of style. Of course, we never met a nail that didn't look perfectly divine dressed in a coat of red, which is why you'll find one of our favorite red nail polishes for short nails in this collection. These are the best nail polish colors for short nails, hands down. OPI Movie Buff Amazon Buy Now BUY IT: $13; amazon.com This soft, almost off-white pink is as classic as they come. The Infinite Shine finish delivers a gel-like appearance with up to 11 days of wear. OPI I'm an Extra Amazon Buy Now BUY IT: $13; amazon.com A warmed-up nude is just the ticket for keeping your short nails in line. It works with all skin tones, though it'll really sparkle on darker complexions. Essie Rock the Runway Amazon Buy Now Buy It: $8.25; amazon.com Just because your nails are trim, doesn't mean they should fly under the radar. This bold red packs a punch of color that might convince all the girls to grab their files. Essie Fairy Tailor Amazon Buy Now BUY IT: $11.44; amazon.com Go sheer with a touch of pink. It's your wear-with-anything nail color that goes from season to season with ease. Essie Expressie In the Time Zone Amazon Buy Now BUY IT: $8.97; amazon.com Blue undertones keep this pastel pink cool and fresh. Give it a spin and you'll find a fast favorite for your short and sweet mani. Olive & June RP Olive & June Buy Now BUY IT: $8; oliveandjune.com This opaque taupe reads as the perfect barely there neutral, skewing more pink or gray depending on skin tone. Olive & June AW Olive & June Buy Now BUY IT: $8; oliveandjune.com Warm up your mani with this brownish gray lacquer. The formula is 7 free, meaning you can feel good about wearing it nonstop. Pair it with the brand's Super Glossy Top Coat to extend the wear. Sally Hansen Rose & Shine Amazon Buy Now BUY IT: $7.46; amazon.com We're making a major case for short, rose-colored nails in 2021. Who's with us? This one comes in Sally Hansen's gel-like finish that removes like regular nail polish. Ella+Mila Honeymoon Bliss Amazon Buy Now BUY IT: $10.49; amazon.com A little purple, a little pink, a little (seriously, just a smidge) gray—put them together and you've got Honeymoon Bliss. It's just a tad warmer than Essie classics like Fiji and Ballet Slippers. Sally Hansen Mega Strength Boss Babe Southern Living Buy Now BUY IT: $4.47; amazon.com Go a little bold with this smoky plum shade. It's the ideal between-seasons transition color, whether we're talking summer to fall, fall to winter, or winter to spring. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit