8 Short Maximalist Nail Ideas for Summer

As we fully transition into the summer (marked by, both, the start of Pride Month and Gemini season), I have a beauty declaration to make, and based on my social media explore pages and celebrity icons’ looks as of late I’m not the only one: maximalist is in. While there is still a time and a place for that beloved clean-girl aesthetic, summer is all about fun, and this summer, more is more when it comes to all things beauty.

More doesn’t mean longer, though. If you’re a short nail girl like myself, maximalist nails for summer are still surely within grasp, as the nail art of today has evolved to incorporate next-level, 3D, hand-painted designs on any nail size and shape. In fact, the shorter, more functional squoval nail shape has been gaining popularity lately, with some of the trendiest maximalist nail designs popping off on shorties. If you’re hopping on the more is more band wagon along with me this summer, here are some of the hottest short, maximalist nail ideas to get you started.

8 Short Maximalist Manicures to Bookmark Now

1 / 8

Hawaii Five-O

Usher in summer with an intricate, tropical-inspired manicure like this set by Vanity Projects’ @mitsu.lovl, which features 3D gel overlays, blooming gel, chrome and more.

2 / 8

Modern Art

For the artistically-inclined and short nail-obsessed, this mod-inspired nail set by Vanity Projects’ @marina1854  is the perfect fit.

3 / 8

Galaxy Shorties

These “galaxy shorties” by Vanity Projects’ @nails_by_minami show just how maximalist short nails can be, fitting a realistic portrait of the universe onto each finger.

4 / 8

Festival Chic

Whether you have a desert musical festival on the books for the summer or you just want an eccentric, trendy festival-esque mani, this set by Vanity Projects’ @kellykoutur is a great pick.

5 / 8

Heavy Metals

Pairing pastel aura nails with 3D metallic accents, this short maximalist set by Vanity Projects’ @lucky__pool is equal parts summery and trendy.

6 / 8

Red and Teal

There is nothing more chic than mixing bold, bright colors, and this chrome, 3D and French manicure by Vanity Projects’ @nailjerks proves that mixing shades on your nails makes for the perfect short maximalist manicure.

7 / 8

Vacation Shorties

If you’re heading anywhere sunny this summer—from Hawaii to Thailand—these subtle floral and airbrushed nails by Vanity Projects’ @makoartz are just the right amount of over the top for your vacation mani.

8 / 8

Maximalist Jelly Nails

While most jelly nails are relatively laid-back, this set by Vanity Projects’ @setsbyoona showcases how 3D textures and metal accents can make short jelly nails a maximalist staple.