When it comes to your nails, the kind of manicure isn't the only thing you have to decide — your nail shape is often equally important. SNS Nails, who supply salons with dips and gels, remind us it does not matter which type of manicure and product you select, the form can be anything. From the feminine oval to some dramatic stiletto, your nail shape can change the entire vibe of the manicure as well as your look. However, not every nail shapes necessarily suit everyone. The very best nail shape for you will ultimately depend on the length of your nails, personal style, lifestyle, and also the form of your hands and nail beds. Certain nail shapes are more low maintenance than others, while others look better on longer nails or slimmer nail beds. Some shapes can even provide the illusion of longer, slimmer fingers. If you're attempting to decide which nail shape is the best selection for you, take a look at our guide below that breaks down every nail shape, who it works for (or who it doesn't), so you can ensure your next manicure is totally insta-worthy.
Round
A round nail is a true classic shape. It is a low maintenance nail shape that mirrors the contour of the cuticle line having a rounded tip, making a perfectly circular arch. This nail shape elongates fingers and makes nail beds look narrower and can work on short nails or a longer length.
Square
A low maintenance nail shape that’s filed straight across on the tip with perfect Ninety degree angle sides is a favorite choice among the younger generation and also gives us major Y2K nostalgia. For best results, this nail shape is best suited for all those with long, narrow nail beds. Individuals with shorter fingers or short nail beds may want to steer clear of a square shape as it can certainly make fingers look shorter and stubby.
Oval
The oval is comparable to a round shape but slightly tapered around the sides to elongate the nail will also give the illusion of the longer nail bed and long, slim fingers. This nail shape fails well on short nails as the nail must be at least slightly beyond the fingertip to produce the almond shape. An oval nail looks great on individuals with wider nail bed and long nails because it has an elongating and slimming effect.
Squoval
This hybrid includes a square shape with rounded corners that's pretty low maintenance. The squoval is really a universally flattering shape that appears good on pretty much anyone. A high level newbie to manicures, can't make a decision, or enjoy playing it safe, this nail shape may be for you — and it's guaranteed to look great with any color choice.
Almond
A favorite among runways and the world of fashion, an almond nail is definitely an elongated shape much like an oval however with a far more tapered tip, mimicking the shape of — you guessed it, an almond. This chic nail shape is super sexy and can lengthen and slim your fingers and nail beds, ensuring it looks good on short or long fingers. We love a perfectly shaped almond in nude — very elegant.
Coffin/Ballerina
Mimicking the form of the coffin or a ballerina shoe, featuring tapered sides and a straight, square tip, this shape is incredibly trendy and requires more maintenance than most of the other shapes. A favorite among those who're really into nails or the ones that prefer acrylics, this shape is a strong one which looks best on a longer nail and people with slimmer fingers.
Stiletto
How this nail shape gets its name is probably pretty obvious — it mimics those stiletto high heel sandals you've in the back of your closet right now. To obtain a stiletto shape, the nail is filed to some long, tapered point, similar to a claw. For those that are into edgy and daring manicures, the stiletto nail may be for you personally. However, this dramatic shape will only work on long nails and can be a lot more high maintenance and vulnerable to breakage, which makes it not too realistic for several lifestyles, like those who perform a lot of activity with their hands. For optimum drama, consider using a stiletto in a dark, rich hue or a radiant glitter.
Bottom Line
Deciding your nail shape might seem tricky, but it can also be a great time to experiment with different nail shapes to find which is the greatest selection for you, based on your desired level of maintenance, style, and proportion of your hands.
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