Ever since we snapped up tickets for Sabrina Carpenter’s “Short n’ Sweet” tour, we’ve not stopped thinking about the manicure we’d wear to see this queen perform. The “Espresso” hitmaker constantly does nail looks we can’t wait to try (yes, that includes Carpenter’s white chrome nails, which still have a tight grip on us). But we don’t want to beg our nail tech to “Please Please Please” design something impromptu right before the show. And, although Carpenter has gorgeous talons, we also don’t want to simply recreate designs she’s worn before. So, we took things one step further.
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In a similar vein to our Taylor Swift “Tortured Poets Department” manicure ideas, we delved deeper into what this star and her tour are all about. We took inspiration from her songs, her outfits, and even the “Short n’ Sweet” cover art to create the only collection of Sabrina Carpenter inspired nails you’ll ever need.
Recreate Sabrina Carpenter’s red and white striped ensemble
In June 2024, Sabrina Carpenter slayed on the Vogue World 2024 runway in a red and white striped bodysuit, sheer maxi skirt, and headscarf. The sugary sweet outfit was
totally iconic, and we can’t help but feel inspired to pay tribute via our nails. To recreate as a manicure, only apply red polish on half of your nail. That’ll keep things short and sweet (get it?). Once that’s dry, add white lines using a long, thin, nail art brush — and a steady hand.
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Blow a kiss with your nails
Sabrina Carpenter is all about being flirty and sexy, and she didn’t shy away from that for the “Short n’ Sweet” album cover. In the photo, Carpenter looks over her shoulder with a deep red lipstick mark on her back, which makes for simple, yet effective nail art. Using a small nail art brush, paint two tiny, red lines (they don’t have to be too perfect, kiss marks often smudge) on your finger tip. Then stamp it on your nail. To truly match the album cover, apply it over a blue lacquer. Otherwise, a French manicure will help your handiwork stand out.
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Wear your espresso (martini)
Wearing “Espresso” inspired nails to the Short n’ Sweet tour? That’s that you, espresso! Sabrina Carpenter’s U.S. and Canadian tour dates stretch from September to November 2024 – the perfect time to transition into darker fall nails. A deep brown espresso shade is season appropriate and on-brand, so apply that as the base. Seeing as Carpenter sells espresso martini merch and some versions of the cocktail contain edible gold, add a gold glitter polish over the top. The star often wears sparkle on stage, so there’s a chance you’ll match when she sings her massive hit.
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Do delicate lace like Sabrina Carpenter
On the “Short n’ Sweet” tour poster, Sabrina Carpenter is dressed in a delicate, lace nightie. It’s a dreamy, coquette vibe, that looks great as a manicure. Paint your nails glossy (to match Carpenter’s dewy makeup) nude/light pink, the color of the silk. Use a lace stamping plate and white polish to transfer the intricate design onto the nail. You can also add 3D or flat bows as a nod to Carpenter’s penchant for hair bows. Plus, bow nails are a super trendy take on the coquette manicure.
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Shine on with pink hearts
In August 2023, Sabrina Carpenter had jaws on the floor at Lollapalooza. She wore one of her most memorable looks ever, a bedazzled hot pink heart-shaped top with rhinestone straps and matching satin mini skirt. The vivid color was so sweet, while the top and skirt were both on the short side. Short n’ sweet indeed! To make this a nail look, use metallic pink heart-shaped nail sequins and rhinestones. The hearts give a girlie, cute aesthetic, while the rhinestones recreate the texture — and sparkle! — like a necklace for your fingers.
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