From Square to Stiletto: A Guide to Nail Shapes

Have you ever walked out of a manicure feeling unsatisfied because the shape wasn’t quite what you had in mind? Or maybe you struggled to describe your ideal look to the nail technician? Understanding the different nail shapes — and which ones flatter your hands — makes your next salon visit so much smoother.

Let’s go through the most common nail shapes so you can walk into your appointment with confidence.

1. Square

Square nails are defined by straight sides and sharp corners. They look neat, polished, and work well for people with strong nail beds. This shape is low-maintenance and ideal for those who prefer a clean, professional look.

2. Squoval

A blend of square and oval, the squoval keeps the straight edges of a square but softens the corners. This versatile shape flatters nearly every hand and strikes a balance between elegance and practicality.

3. Round

Round nails are short with curved edges. They’re soft, feminine, and easy to maintain — a great choice for active people or workers who need to keep nails shorter. Round nails also make wider nail beds look slimmer.

4. Oval

Oval nails are an elongated version of round, tapering slightly at the tip. They create the illusion of longer fingers, making them a perfect option for shorter hands or anyone seeking a more refined look.

5. Almond

Almond nails are a favorite on social media and inspiration boards. With a sleek, tapered point and a touch of roundness, they’re stylish yet versatile. Almond shapes suit most hands and work beautifully with medium to long nails.

6. Coffin/Ballerina

Imagine combining the sharp taper of almond nails with the flat tip of square nails — that’s the coffin (or ballerina) shape. The name comes from its resemblance to a pointe shoe. Trendy and bold, it works best with longer nails or acrylic extensions to maintain strength.

7. Stiletto

Stiletto nails taper dramatically to a sharp point, making them one of the most eye-catching shapes. Best suited for fashion-forward personalities, this style is usually created with extensions to prevent breakage.

While each nail shape tends to have a “preferred” length, remember: every shape can be adapted to the length you desire.

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