Would a french manicure on short nails cost less than using fake nails? Any ideas for some designs?

i have no idea how much fake nails and french manicure cost, but i can give you a really cute idea to try! just paint your nails one colour (for example a light pink). then, you do a french manicure with a darker pink! it is SO cute! it's also very young and shows lots of personality. you can do this with any colour. i saw a picture of a blue one, and it looked awesome!Would a french manicure on short nails cost less than using fake nails? Any ideas for some designs?
It would probably cost more but fake nails would fall off more quickly so try doing it yourself cause it isnt that hard and for decorations do snowflakes or somethin to fit in with the holidays.