17 Short Nail Design Ideas for February, From Polka Dots to Hearts
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Short nails are back big time, and we’re fully on board with the trend—they’re simply hassle-, worry-, and stress-free. They’re easy to manage and look great on everyone. What’s not to love?
If you plan on rocking short nails this February but aren’t exactly sure what you want to wear, we’ve got you covered. Ahead, we compiled a gallery of 17 of our favorite short manicure ideas for February. From Valentine’s Day designs to simple sets, there’s something for everyone.
Rainbow Gems
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If you’re a fan of a classic French mani but are looking to take things to the next level, consider adding rainbow-colored rhinestones. After painting on French tips, glue different colored gems to the bottom of each nail for a fun and colorful look.
Milky Baby Pink
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Pink is the unofficial color of February, and if you’re feeling love in the air, go for a baby pink mani. A strawberry milk shade like this one will feel decidedly “quiet luxury.”
Kisses
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Want to give a subtle nod to Valentine’s Day without being too over the top? Take inspo from this mani and go for little kisses. After applying a light pink base and micro French tips, you can use a fine-lining nail art brush to paint a red kiss (or two). Or make it easier on yourself with nail stickers.
Sparkle Dust
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We’re big fans of how this sheer shimmer sparkles against bare nails. To get the look, keep your base clear or paint on one coat of a light nude polish before going in with a fine glittery shade.
Polka Dots
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Polka dots are severely underrated, in our humble opinion. If you agree, take this as a sign to add some to your digits. Use a toothpick to dot on red baby polka dots, then lock everything in with a shiny top coat.
Holographic
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How fun is this holographic set featuring pink and green hearts? You can use a nail art brush or a sponge to create the ombré holographic French tips.
Classic French
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Feeling more of a classic vibe this February? Trust us when we say you can never go wrong with a good old-fashioned French manicure. We love the micro tips and square shape on this one.
Candy Apple Red
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Ever heard of the red nail theory? Put it to the test with a gorgeous candy apple red manicure.
Baby Hearts
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Valentine’s Day falls right in the middle of February, so we think it’s perfectly acceptable to rock a fun, love-themed mani—like these nude, micro-heart-accented Olive & June press-ons—all month long.
Jelly Red
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Another fun way to rock red nails in February is with a jelly finish. Lock yours in with a super shiny top coat to get that megawatt shine.
Aura Vibes
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For some fun, feminine, girly pop nails, we love the idea of going for aura vibes. First, paint on two coats of your favorite lilac hue. Then, using a sponge, tap on a pink shade in the center.
Molten Silver
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Not feeling bright color this February? Allow us to introduce you to molten silver. To get a similar look, start with a nude base coat, then use builder gel to add metallic silver in swirly patterns on each of your nails.
Geometric
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For just a touch of pink, try this geometric nail look. After painting on a cream-colored base coat, use a fine-lining nail art brush and hot pink and black polishes to create angular accents.
Glitter Tips
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Feeling down in February dumps? Glittery nails are the ultimate mood booster. One shimmery shade would look beautiful, but there’s something extra special about varying shades from nail to nail.
Blushing
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For another pink look, we’re vibing with this blushing pink mani. The subtle French tips blend seamlessly with the rest of the nail, but our favorite part has to be the nail with the negative space heart—so darling!
Winter Blues
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It’s still winter, which means an icy blue manicure is more than appropriate. Pop on two or three solid coats and finish with a glossy top coat.
Cherry Hearts
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Cherry hearts were just made for February. To get the accent nails in this cute set, start with classic French tips. Then, top your dried manicure with heart nail stickers and use a fine-lining nail brush and green polish to add your stems.
