Manicure Inspiration for Short Nails: Spring 2025 Edition

Metallic and shimmery finishes have been super popular in the last few years, with the reflective effect of some nail polishes and powders being a simple way to elevate any nail design. We’re big fans of the pink French tip and dainty blue flower design from @press_reset_nails, with the simple look being a great example of how you can incorporate this shiny finish into your spring-themed manicures.

Pastel colors are a staple of spring nail designs, with a rainbow assortment of the pale hues being a great option for your next set. While you can go all out with this color scheme, micro French tips are a fun, subtle spin on the vibrant look. To achieve the look, all you need is a pink-toned base color and some pastel shades, with hues like mint green and lilac being great inspiration points.

While rich velvet fabrics are often associated with the fall and winter months, the textured nail finish works as a playful twist on spring-inspired manicure designs. Also referred to as magnetic or cat eye nails, this Korean-originated design utilizes a mixture of metallic texture and sparkles to imitate the look of soft velvet fabrics. In place of rich or dark shades, we recommend reaching for vibrant and flowery nail polish colors like ILNP’s Pink Suede or Mellow Sage Green Magnetic.

Opting for a bumblebee-inspired nail design is a great way to channel spring vibes into your manicure without going full flower power. We’re big fans of the design from @polished_yogi, which features two bumblebee and flower-dotted accent nails paired with solid pastel yellow nails. If you’re not great with nail art tools, you can always try out bee nail art stickers to achieve this playful look.

If you love flowery nail looks, then consider channeling spring into your next mani-pedi with a combination of colorful blooms and frolic-worthy fields. While we’re big fans of complete flower-prints, incorporating grassy accents allows for the use of the vibrant spring greens so characteristic of the season. You can really make this design choice pop with the use of a sheer, sparkly base color like Cirque Colors Shimmer Holographic Sparkle Nail Polish.

Soap nails, the ultimate minimalist trend, are a great option for nail-enthusiasts looking for a super simple look for the season. This design is all about channeling squeaky-clean, soap bubble vibes with sheer, shiny layers. For a bit of a spring tinge, opt for a baby pink nail polish color like Cirque Colors Chiffon Sheer Nail Polish.