Black and white nail designs are the most classic way of showing sophistication and elegance. It’s a well-loved color combination that has transcended generations. Given the combination’s versatility, even those with short nails can rock this design. Here are 16 of the most elegant black and white nail designs you can paint on your nails.

16 Most Elegant Black and White Nail Designs For Short Nails

I have not met anyone who has not sported the reliable black and white nail polish combo at least once in their life. The classic look is so inviting that the ideas on what design to don is limitless. This list includes 16 elegant black and white nail designs for short nails.

1. Mixed Design

Who says you can’t have mixed design for your black and white nail designs? This shows you the possibility is limitless.

2. Polka Dots

Bring in the circles to your nails. You can have black as the base with white dots on top or vice versa like the image above.

3. Zebra

Black and white stripes are greatly associated with zebra. Here’s a look fitted for short nails.

4. Chevron

Bored of straight lines? Here’s a chevron design for short nails using black and white nail designs.

5. Black And White Negative Space

Fully painted nails are not always the best as this negative space nail design shows. It’s hip and elegant at the same time.

6. Leaves

Have another take on black and white nail designs by drawing a figure of leaves. It’s a fun design and elegant at the same time.

7. Geometric Design

Bring in geometric design to your nails like this nail art above. The design is clean yet bold enough to draw attention.

8. Art Deco

Here’s a nail design who knows no occasion. Whether you’re going to a formal event or on a night out with your friend, this nail art is definitely a go-to.

9. Graph print

This graph print was inspired by the Marni bag. It exudes a degree of sophistication and simplicity. Bonus part? It’s easy to replicate.

10. Plaid

If you’re yearning for some preppy nail art, here’s a plaid design that provides just that. The French tip in black is an icing on the cake.

11. Angled Lines

Black base topped with white angle lines make an interesting and elegant nail art.

12. Pizza Slice

A slice of pizza drawn on your nails is probably the next best thing to actually eating a slice of pizza. There’s no need to get intricate with the drawing like the sample above.

13. Play with Lines

Having lines for your black and white nail designs should not be limited to a certain direction. Play with lines to replicate this look.

14. Moon Design

Replicate the image of a half-moon to create this simple design. Add a border around the nails to add more interest to it. This reminds me of the NYFW F/W nail design from Hood by Air, only this one is more wearable.

15. Matte Black and White Nail Designs

Everything does not have to be shiny to be elegant and chic. A muted nail art like the image above demonstrates just why.

16. Puzzle

Who wouldn’t be interested in sporting this nail art design? It’s definitely creative without sacrificing elegance.

Watch the video below from Polish Pedia for a step by step guide on how to hack the black and white puzzle nail art:

I’ve always loved classic nail designs that use black and white. You’ll never go overboard with these colors, they’re sophisticated and high fashion. Plus, they’re easy to match with any outfit!

Did you enjoy this article? There’s so much more you can learn from this site like this article about white nail designs appropriate for work. 

If you have any topics you want me to cover just share your thoughts in the comments section below, I’d love to hear them.

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