When it comes to nailing your mani-pedis and getting to know your nail trends, there are 7 main shapes of nails you should know about: round, oval, almond, square, ballerina, squoval and stiletto nails.
Round, oval, almond and square shaped nails are the most popular nail shape.
But if you’re feeling more daring, why not go for something different like ballerina nails, also called coffin nails which give an edgy look or squoval? If those don’t work then stiletto nails will do the trick!
Let us break down each nail shape so that choosing the perfect nail shape can be easy peasy lemon squeezy. With our ultimate guide, you can determine how much length is best for YOU and which nail shape will look fabulous on those digits!
What are the seven different nail shapes?
1. Round Nails
Round nails are the best nail shape if you have short nails with wide nail beds.
Not only that, but if chips or breaks occur, reshaping round nails is simple – all it takes is some filing!
Even at-home filing can create rounded perfection; just file in one direction first then switch sides before rounding off each nail.
2. Oval Nails
If you want to give your nails a little extra length while avoiding sharp edges, the oval nail shape is the way to go!
An oval shape is the best nail shape if you have narrow nail beds because it makes your fingers look slimmer and longer.
To get an ideal oval nail shape, simply file each nail in one direction until they take on that signature shape – then smooth out any uneven bits with light filing for flawless oval nails
3. Almond Nails
The almond nail shape is the way to go for a unique and bold style! They feature tapered edges at their tips, giving them an unmistakable almond shape.
Plus they offer extra strength so you don’t have to worry about if your nails are prone to chipping.
To ge the almond nail shape, all it takes is some filing in one direction until your nail has taken on its new look – then just taper those edges off before giving everything a light smoothing for ultimate glamour!
4. Square Nails
Square nails are perfect for that classic manicure look. But not only are square nails elegant and tidy, but they also have some great practical advantages.
The square nail shape is more durable than rounded tips, so they’re less prone to chipping or breaking!
For those with delicate and slender hands, slim fingers and narrow nail beds – square nails may be the perfect fit. Its sharp angles can exude an air of sophistication to your manicure!
To achieve that perfect square nail shape, simply file each one in a single direction until the angular edge appears – finally, use your buffer tool over any rough edges & voila; square shape perfection!
5. Ballerina Nails (or Coffin Nails)
Want long and sturdy nails? Ballerina shaped nails should do the trick!
Simply file them into a ballerina shape before smoothing out any rough edges, after which you’ll be left with pointy tips that add length – all without gels or extensions.
Give it a try today for some strong yet stylish digits! However, be warned ballerina shaped nails are pretty high maintenance.
6. Squoval Nails
With squared edges and slight rounding on each tip, squoval nails provide strength and durability while still maintaining a softer look.
They’re the most low maintenance nail shape as the squoval shape is the shape most of our nails grow in.
To get squoval shaped nails all you need is one willing finger at a time – file away in one direction towards a square shape before lightly rounding off those tips with some additional filing finesse. Finally, buff down any rough patches till they reach their smooth squoval beauty goals!
7. Stiletto Nails (or Pointed Nails)
Get noticed with stiletto nails! The stiletto nail shape is sharp yet strong and will make your hands stand out while also protecting against breakages and chipping.
The angular filing followed by tapering of the edges to reach a pointy tip is perfect for any special event – making an impact without needing extensions or gels.
Complete the stiletto nail shape by lightly smoothing each nail’s surface for that extra touch of elegance and sophistication.
How to choose the right nail shape for your fingers?
Choosing the right nail shape for your fingers can be overwhelming! There are so many nail shapes to choose from that it can be hard to decide. Fortunately, knowing the benefits of each style and shape will help narrow down the choices. Here are some things to consider before making your choice:
Consider the length of your nails
Depending on the length of your nails, specific nail shapes may look better than others. For example, if you have short nails, round or oval nails are usually the best option, making them appear longer and more elegant. On the other hand, if you have long nails, a square or almond nail shape may be better suited to make them look more balanced.
Think about the strength of your nails
Different nail shapes can provide different levels of strength, depending on their shape and size. For example, round nails are usually weaker than square or almond shaped nails as they don’t offer any support to protect against breakage or chipping. Whereas stiletto shaped nails are generally the strongest as they have a tapered shape that helps reinforce the nails.
What look do you want to achieve
The shape of your nails can also affect the overall look you want to achieve. If you want a classic and elegant look, then oval or round nails are usually the best option. If you’d prefer to make your nails look longer and more glamorous, then square, almond or stiletto shapes are the best nail shape. Finally, if you’re looking for something in between, a squoval nail shape is a perfect choice as it offers strength and durability while still providing a softer look.
Ask for advice at a nail salon
Ultimately, finding a professional nail technician who can help you select the best shape for your nails and determine what works best for you is essential. They’ll be able to provide advice on the right shape for you and how to properly care for them so that they remain healthy and strong.
Experiment with different nail shapes to find what suits you best
Once you know which nail shape works best for your hands and nails, it’s important to experiment in order to find the one that suits you best. By trying out different nail shapes, you can determine which shape looks good on you.
