8 Nail Shapes You Can Choose For Your Next Manicure

When it comes to nailing the perfect manicure. . .

The nail shape matters just as much as colour!

But with so many shape options. . .

Deciding on a nail shape that flatters your hands and lifestyle can be a challenge!

Here’s a guide to the 8 most popular nail shapes to help you decide which one suits you best:

1. Square

Perfect for: Wider nail beds and active lifestyles

Square nails are one of the most classic looks.

They are shaped flat on top with straight, sharp corners.

The square shape can be very flattering for wider nail beds as it creates the illusion of elongated nails.

This shape is also known to be strong and less prone to breaking, making it perfect for people with active hobbies such as:

• Gardening
• Cooking
• Sports

2. Round

Perfect for: Shorter nails and low-maintenance upkeep

Round nails are similar to square nails but with curved edges.

This shape is easy to maintain and great for people who prefer a subtle, understated appearance that still looks polished.

And due to its low-maintenance nature. . .

Round nails are also perfect if you have a busy lifestyle and don’t have time for frequent salon visits since they are less likely to chip off.

3. Oval

Perfect for: Longer nails for slenderising the fingers

Oval nails are a more elongated version of round nails.

It has a curved tip that extends beyond the fingertips.

This shape can make your fingers appear longer and more slender.

Oval nails are great to wear during special occasions such as:

• Weddings
• Galas
• Work events

This is because the oval shape can give your hands an elegant and graceful appearance.

4. Squoval

Perfect for: All nail lengths

Can’t decide between the square shape and the oval shape?

Squoval is the perfect happy medium you’re looking for!

Squoval nails combine the clean lines of square nails and the soft edges of oval nails.

This makes it versatile and suitable for all nail lengths.

And because of this unique shape combination. . .

Squoval nails can be worn for both casual and formal settings.

Making it a great choice for office workers who transition from work to social events.

5. Almond

Perfect for: Medium to long nails and creating an elongated look

Almond nails are shaped just like the nut that it’s named from.

It has a wide base and a slender, rounded tip.

Almond nails create a classy, feminine look making it perfect for formal events and social gatherings.

Just like the squoval, the almond shape flatters most nail lengths.

However. . .

It can require a bit more maintenance to keep its almond shape intact.

6. Stiletto

Perfect for: Longer nails and making an edgy, dramatic statement

Stiletto nails are long and dramatically pointed like a stiletto heel.

This shape was popularised by celebrities who have a flare for making bold, dramatic statements like Rihanna or Beyonce.

But because of their pointy length, stiletto nails require frequent touch-ups to maintain their sharp point.

This nail shape is perfect for when you want to make a show-stopping impression.

7. Coffin

Perfect for: Longer nails and bold fashion statements

Coffin nails are long and narrow and taper into a flat tip.

This is another dramatic shape popularised by the fashion world.

Complemented by intricate nail art or bold colours. . .

Coffin nails are perfect for trendsetters and fashionistas who love to experiment with their style.

8. Ballerina

Perfect for: Longer nails and creating a chic, glamorous look

While often used interchangeably with the coffin shape. . .

Ballerina’s nails are long but with more rounded edges resembling the shape of a ballerina’s pointe shoe.

This creates a more dainty, feminine look compared to the bold look of the coffin shape.

If you want to have a professional look but still want to look chic, then ballerina nails are the perfect choice!

Combine Fashion and Function with a Nail Shape that suits Your Personality and Your Lifestyle

Finding the perfect nail shape is all about balancing aesthetics with practicality.

But that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun experimenting with different shapes.

Whether you want the classic square shape or the bold stiletto look. . .

Choosing the nail shape that reflects your personality and makes you feel confident is all that matters!