Stylish manicure for medium nails: 13 original ideas
The last few years have put extra-long manis in the spotlight. Thanks to innovations in the nail extension category (looking at you, gel extensions), it's been easier than ever to get a full-length manicure adorned with ornate nail art. But as gorgeous as lengthy nails are, they're not the best option for everyone.
That's where medium nails come in; they're the perfect middle-ground between a long and short manicure. And when it comes to medium-length manicures, the world is truly your oyster. Ahead, we've rounded up 13 unique medium nail ideas to get you inspired before your next appointment.
01 Extended French
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Make a classic French medium-manicure friendly by extending the lines all the way around your nails—a trick nail artists love because it helps fake the appearance of length. When the smile line—where the French tip comes down—is deep, it elongates the look.
If you’re interested in trying a French fade manicure, don’t limit yourself to neutrals. Two complimentary tones of the same vibrant shade—like this peach and red combo—keep things fresh and fun.
You don’t necessarily need to go super-long to embrace impressive art. Medium-length nails are a perfect canvas for 3D accents and provide plenty of space to play around with interesting textures like foil and gemstones. This gold-and-pearl oyster mani kicks a chrome-gray mani up a notch.
04 Simple Stars
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05 Glazed Hearts
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Because tip accents are a great way to fake the appearance of length, these half-heart accents will supersize your medium manicure. Start with a pearlescent pink polish as the base, and then draw on the heart-shaped art in a slightly deeper, opaque pink polish.
If "quiet luxury" were to be reimagined into a medium-length manicure, this would be it. Pairing nude polish with subtle, graphic line art keeps things interesting without being overwhelmingly bold.
This is not your average French mani. The wave-shaped tips and dazzling gold outline add an edgy feel to the traditional nail look.
08 Negative-Space French
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Try three trends for the price of one with this manicure—it features chrome, negative space, and French tips. Start with a clear glaze base, then draw two easy lines along your natural smile line with a nail brush.
Crocodile print manicures are very on-trend. The beauty of this nail look is that it can be achieved using any polish you desire—this baby blue take is beyond beautiful.
This frosty manicure is definitely worth recreating. The gradual fade between the pink base and shimmery silver tips is mesmerizing—and the gold star accent is a dreamy finishing touch.
11 Jade and Gold
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These evergreen nails are glamorous. The gold accents underneath the green French tips create a cool negative space effect.
Alicia Torello, the nail artist behind this medium-length mani, calls it "one of her favorite looks of all time," and we can see why. It's equal parts simple and statement-making, giving you the best of both worlds on all 10 fingers.
13 Balanced Blue and Brown
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Blue and brown are an unexpected color combo, but it works so well. Create a cool accent nail by using the contrasting colors in a yin-yang design.
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