18 Short Christmas Nail Ideas That Are Merry and Bright

short red nails — @lolo.nailedit / instagram

There are many ways to get into the Christmas spirit, one of them being a festive manicure. When the holidays arrive at our doorstep, many of us find joy in experimenting with seasonal nail shades (like dark green and rich red) and elaborate designs (think candy canes and plaid). Luckily, there's no shortage of inspiration at this time of year.

Whether you're a self-proclaimed nail minimalist or maximalist, we've rounded up 18 short Christmas nail ideas fit for every vibe. We promise these Christmas manicures will spark joy whenever you glance at your fingertips.

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Green French Nails

Give the classic French manicure a Christmas spin by opting for dark green polish instead. These gorgeous green tips are so chic.

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Sparkly Party Nails

sparkly short nails — @melanated.mani / instagram

This is the perfect Christmas party mani. It's so sparkly and sophisticated.

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Gorgeous Green Nails

short bright green nails — @betina_goldstein / instagram

You don't need nail art to make your Christmas manicure stand out. This solid green set is very merry and bright.

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Frosty Finish Nails

sheer sparkly nails — @lolo.nailedit / instagram

A frosty, pearlescent manicure is absolutely fitting for the holiday. This look conjures images of a beautiful, snowy Christmas day.

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Glittery Green Nails

green sparkly nails — @lolo.nailedit / instagram

Jazz up your green manicure by adding a sparkly top coat. The subtle shimmer adds a fun and festive touch to the look.

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Luxe Green Nails

dark green short nails — @lolo.nailedit / instagram

Go for a darker shade of green to add a moody vibe to your Christmas manicure. Forego any nail art to allow the luxe polish to shine.

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Red, White, and Gold French Nails

red and white french tips — @lolo.nailedit / instagram

Red, white, and gold are core parts of the Christmas color palette. This French manicure stunningly combines all three shades.

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Classic Red Nails

red short nails — @lolo.nailedit / instagram

For a classic Christmas manicure, opt for a solid red polish. Choose a bright, vibrant shade and a glossy top coat for extra measure.

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Green Heart Nails

Showcase your love for Christmas with a heart-shaped French manicure. Stick with a nude base and add glittery green hearts to the tips of each nail.

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Split Red Nails

Everything about this red manicure is fancy and festive. The split design and matte finish on each nail add a unique touch to the look.

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Abstract Red Nails

short red nails with abstract designs — @imarninails / instagram

As this mani proves, there's a way to make abstract nail art feel fitting for Christmas. Deck out your nude base with red blobs, and you'll be all set.

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Red Holly Nails

short red christmas nails with holly designs — @imarninails /instagram

Lean into seasonal nail art and decorate a few nails with holly. To balance the look, mix in a few solid red nails.

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Silver Chrome Nails

Chrome and Christmas go hand in hand. This metallic, silver manicure will surely be the showstopper at every holiday party.

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Shimmery French Nails

short white french nails with sparkly top coat — @iramshelton / instagram

This white French manicure is right out of a winter wonderland. The sheer, glittery base adds an ethereal feel to the look.

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Classic Plaid Nails

Short Black, Red, and Gold Plaid Nails — @brownluxenails / Instagram

Plaid is everywhere during the holiday season, so why not add it to your nails? Pair your matte plaid nails with glossy red ones to add visual appeal to the look.

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Green Plaid Nails

Ultra-short coffin nails with green and white plaid design and solid green accent nail — @themimid / instagram

Here's another way to sport plaid nails this Christmas. Enhance your green plaid designs with a hint of gold to make the look feel extra special.

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Candy Cane Nails

candy cane french nails — @tinybrushes / instagram

What's Christmas Day without candy canes and peppermints? This manicure brings the red and white candy to life on your fingertips.

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Minimalist Glitter Nails

Clear nails with gold glitter central stripe accent — @aliciatnails / instagram

When you think of minimalist nails, glitter is likely the furthest thing from your mind. However, this short set proves you can wear glitter in a subtle way.