How did an entire year pass by so quickly — and here we are in 2026! It’s time to think about all the nail ideas you want to bring to life over the next 12 months. January is especially inspiring for experiments: you can highlight the festive New Year spirit with sparkling or metallic accents, or choose a shade from the winter palette — deep brown, elegant black, or rich burgundy. Whatever your style, the result is sure to delight the eye.
Below are 6 manicure ideas for short nails in January that will help you start the new year stylishly and beautifully.
01 Velvet Manicure
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Start the new year with refined glamour — choose a velvet manicure in cool, icy shades. A nude base makes this shimmering design versatile and perfect for any look.
02 Red Manicure
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Red shades remain on-trend this January. Try a deep jelly red — it looks luxurious, shines beautifully, and adds a special touch of elegance to your manicure.
03 Black Accents
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Experiment in a creative way with black polish: apply a neutral base, then decorate each nail with delicate, curved black lines.
04 Glitter French
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The classic French manicure can be refreshed in many original ways: try combining traditional white tips with a sparkling base for a stylish, modern accent.
05 Vanilla Manicure
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This soft vanilla shade is the perfect addition to your manicure, blending modern elegance with classic beauty.
06 Nude Manicure
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Minimalism is always in style, and this gentle nude manicure is a perfect example. Apply several layers of your favorite nude polish, and for a refined, stylish accent, add a few clear rhinestones to each nail. This design looks both understated and elegant.