10 Different Nail Shapes Explained: Almond, Stiletto & more
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Want to spice up your manicure routine with something different?
Read on to explore the world of nail shapes and introduce you to ten distinctive styles that are all the rage in the beauty industry.
From elegant almond-shaped nails to edgy stiletto nails, each shape has its own unique charm and personality.
But why should you care about nail shapes?
Well, choosing the right shape can enhance the overall look of your hands, complement your personal style, and even make your fingers appear longer or shorter.
Whether you prefer a classic, timeless look or love experimenting with the latest trends, knowing the different nail shapes will give you endless possibilities for expressing your individuality.
1. Oval
The oval nail shape is a classic and timeless choice that suits most hand shapes and nail lengths.
This shape features softly rounded edges that mimic the shape of an egg.
Oval nails are feminine and elegant creating the illusion of longer fingers. They are perfect for those who prefer a more natural and understated look.
To achieve the perfect oval shape, start by filing the sides of your nails at a slight angle and then round off the tip.
Remember to file in one direction only to prevent any damage to your nails.
2. Square
Square nails are characterised by straight sides and a sharp, squared-off tip.
Square nails provide a timeless and elegant appearance.
The clean lines and squared-off tips contribute to a polished and sophisticated look that can complement various styles and outfits.
To achieve square nails, start by filing the sides of your nails straight and then shape the tip into a square.
3. Round
The round nail shape is a classic and universally flattering choice.
This shape features gently curved edges and a semi-circular tip.
Round nails are ideal for those with shorter nail beds and wider fingertips, as they help to create the illusion of length and balance out the proportions of the hand.
They are also less prone to breakage compared to other nail shapes.
To achieve round nails, start by filing the sides of your nails in a semi-circular motion and then shape the tip into a gentle curve.
Make sure to avoid filing too much from the sides, as this can lead to weak and fragile nails.
4. Almond
The almond nail shape is all about elegance and sophistication.
This shape features softly tapered sides and a narrow, pointed tip that resembles the shape of an almond.
Almond nails are perfect for those who want to add a touch of femininity and glamour to their manicure.
They create the illusion of longer and slimmer fingers, making them a popular choice among women with shorter nail beds.
To achieve the perfect almond shape, start by filing the sides of your nails at an angle and then shape the tip into a gentle point.
Make sure to file the sides evenly to maintain symmetry.
5. Stiletto
If you're looking to make a bold and daring statement, stiletto nails are the way to go.
This shape features long, tapered sides and a sharp, pointed tip that resembles a stiletto heel.
Stiletto nails are often associated with edginess and confidence and are a favourite among fashion-forward individuals.
However, they require some maintenance and can be more prone to breakage compared to other nail shapes.
To achieve stiletto nails, start by filing the sides of your nails into a point and then shape the tip into a sharp point.
6. Coffin (or Ballerina)
Coffin-shaped nails, also known as ballerina nails, are a popular nail shape that has gained significant attention in recent years.
This nail shape is characterised by its tapered and squared-off tip, resembling the shape of a coffin or a ballerina's pointe shoe.
To achieve the coffin/ballerina shape, the nails are typically filed into a tapered square shape with straight sidewalls.
If your nails are too short, you can extend or sculpt them using acrylic or gel nail extensions to create the desired length and shape.
7. Squoval
The squoval nail shape is a combination of square and oval nails, resulting in a soft and rounded square shape.
This shape is a popular choice for those who want the best of both worlds - the strength of square nails and the elegance of oval nails.
Squoval nails are versatile and can be worn long or short, making them suitable for any nail length. They are also less prone to breakage compared to square nails.
To achieve squoval nails, start by filing the sides of your nails straight and then round off the tip into a soft square.
Make sure to file the corners gently to avoid any sharp edges.
8. Lipstick
Lipstick-shaped nails are characterised by their sharp and elongated shape, tapering to a point at the end.
The name “lipstick shape nails” is derived from their resemblance to the shape of a lipstick tube.
The unique shape of lipstick nails offers a bold and edgy look, making them a popular choice for those who want to make a statement with their manicure.
This nail shape can be achieved by filing the sides of the nails into a narrow, tapered shape, gradually narrowing towards the tip.
Depending on personal preference, the pointed tip can be more rounded or sharper.
9. Duck (or Flared Nails)
Duck-shaped nails, also known as “flare” or “flared” nails is a Y2K-inspired nail shape that resembles the webbed feet of ducks, with a wide and elongated shape similar to a swimmer's fin.
The nail widens towards the tip, requiring acrylic extensions for this look.
Although this funky shape has received Lizzo’s celebrity stamp of approval, it is one of the least popular shapes on this list!
10. Arrowhead
Arrowhead nails refer to a nail shape that mimics the shape of an arrowhead or the head of an arrow.
The arrowhead shape is created by filing the sides of the nail into a point while leaving the base of the nail wider.
This creates a sharp triangular shape, resembling an arrowhead.
It is important to note that due to the pointed nature of the nails, they are more prone to breakage and chipping.
Therefore, it is recommended to use a strengthening base coat and to be cautious when performing daily tasks that may put strain on the nails.
