Simply Irresistible: Minimal Nails are Trending for Fall

unghie semplici autunno inverno 2023
Backstage at the Christian Dior Fall 2023 Couture Collection Runway Show on July 3, 2023 in Paris, France. (Photo by Delphine Achard/WWD via Getty Images)WWD/Getty Images

All products featured on Vogue are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.

Those who aren t a fan of (or don t have the time for) over-the-top nail art will feel relief to know simple, short nails are one of 2023 s biggest nail trends.

Simple nails doesn t mean boring. 

  • short or medium length
  • curved, minimalist shape
  • colors fall into the range of neutral, everything from a true nude to burgundy
  • nail art is fine, as long as it is minimal

Short nails

An essential element of minimal nails is their length. Short or medium nails are ideal to represent this trend, which is all about ease. 

Nail shape

The shape of the nails should also emphasize simplicity. You have a few choices here, includingalmond-shaped nails, but also rounded on a short nail, or squoval (that s squared with slightly rounded corners), all shapes that enhance short or medium natural nails.

Nail polish colors for simple and elegant nails

In addition to the shape, the color of the nail polish also helps achieve the goal of recreating a simple but stylish manicure. However, it should not be assumed that only light nail polishes are synonymous with elegance. A manicure can also be simple with a dark nail polish. Here s how to do it.

CLEAR NAIL POLISH

It goes without saying that the simplest nails are completely natural, manicured, and polished. To do this, tidy up your nails then apply a layer of ultra-bright clear polish. If you like simple nails, clear polish is perfect not only because it will make them bright and healthy-looking, but there are now treatment versions, like Dior Nail Glow, which hardens and nourishes simultaneously.

Dior Vernis Nail Glow Nail Polish

OPI Natural Nail Strengthener

NUDE NAIL ENAMEL

Don t let the name fool you—nude nails doesn t mean without polish, but instead finding an enamel that matches your skin tone. Sometimes it takes a little swatching before you discover your perfect shade, or even desired intensity, ranging from transparent to full color. 

Gucci Glossy Nail Polish

OPI Nail Lacquer in Bare My Soul

SOFT PINK NAIL POLISH

Light pink nails, like the iconic Essie Ballet Slipper and OPI Bubble Bath, another great classic for those who want a chic manicure without commitment. Again there are many shades and if you want simple nails try light pink in transparency.

Essie Nail Polish in Ballet Slipper

OPI Nail Lacquer in Bubble Bath

THE MOST ELEGANT DARK NAIL POLISHES

Dark colors doesn t necessarily mean dark style. Shades like deep burgundy, midnight blue deep taupe, cement gray and forest green are all moody and sophisticated. 

Chanel Longwear Nail Colour in Rouge Noir

Lakur Enhance Colour by Londontown in Vibe

Simple nail art

A single bold line, negative space accented with a smattering of dots: simple nail art exists. Designs typically incorporate minimalist style elements like small stickers, to dots at the base of the nails, to micro designs, to contrasting colors. There s plenty to indulge in, will staying true to minimalist principles.