Booking your next meni pedi appointment is easy—so does choosing the right colours for your nails. But as for shaping ‘’edition’’, since there’s so many options to choose from, picking the right one can be tough. Especially if you’ve never tried any other shape besides basic oval and normal square before. Now that you’re finally bold enough to leap into a different nail style, we would like to say congratulations, you better nail it! 

Here’s what you should know, just like the way you apply your blusher technique to help sculpt your face, choosing the right nail shapes can also change the look of your hands. Each detail of your nails from the shape, to the colours to the art, all of them play a vital role in helping to elevate your nail. Okay, let’s use the obvious case scenario: Look at Cardi B’s long stiletto red nails versus Jennifer Anniston’s short round nude nails. Different vibes, get it? Thus, it is important to keep in mind the similarities between your aesthetic and your lifestyle. Imagine if you spent most of your time in the surgical rooms, would you rock long nails? Think about it. Though, if you have a more funky lifestyle outside your job, it is best to stick to a press-on nails. Switch your long coffin nails to shorter nails on Sunday night right before your shift is fun. 

Here, Beauty Insider‘s guide to the different nail shapes—from round to ballerina to coffin—and which nail shapes suit your hand and lifestyle the best. So the next time you’re walking downtown to visit your favourite manicurist, you already know which nail shape to opt for. We love making your love easier. Now quit being nervous and biting your nails. Duh. 

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How To Choose The Right Nail Shape

First and foremost, before you head to the nail salon and merrily pick up the files, we would like to clarify a few things. Before choosing your desired nail shape, ask your manicurist to look at the shape of your cuticle. If they say the perimeter is rounded in shape, then a basic round or oval shape basically suits you the best. You should stick to that. If it’s wider in perimeter, however, then a square or squoval shape can definitely be your type. We suggest that you stay away from extreme nail shapes if you’re leaning more towards conservative. As opposed to you who work in a labor-intensive industry, any nail shape literally suits you. You can go versatile when it comes to shapes and art. Though, we recommend you start it slow with shorter shapes and once you familiarize yourself with the style, go slightly longer. 

The Importance Of Taking Care Of Your Nails 

Nothing annoys me more than seeing dirt being trapped around your cuticles. Eww! Woese, if there’s a crack on the surface of your nails. Seriously, just a smooch as you have been taking care of your skin and hair, you should never neglect your nails’ health. Hello, nails are one of the most respected features of the body. The better they look, the more confident we feel. Bear in mind that no matter what shapes you choose, you should always pay extra attention when it comes to nail care. Especially if you prefer longer nails. Don’t ever treat your nails as tools, like a can opener or moisturizer scooper. It’s dirty and unhygienic, leave it sis. If you’re still not sure whether it’s a good idea to invest in a different shape, then start slowly by using pressed-on nails. In this case, you’ll save money and time. 

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7 Different Nail Shapes

1. Round Nail Shape

Possibly the most common nail shapes, ever. This nail shape suits almost every creature on this planet, though, manicure experts suggest that it looks best on those with shorter fingers since it will help make your finger looks longer. Peeps with an active lifestyle also are encouraged to keep this nail in tack—as you can easily buff and maintain the shape at home, by yourself. They require no special care because they’re very direct. However, if you would like a little spice on your short round nails, how about ask for a classic French manicure the next time you decided to do your nails? Trust us, there’s nothing prettier than having that french manicure on a short nail. Believe us in this. 

2. Square Nail Shape

Next, another classic shape nails. Honestly, you could never go wrong with this square nail shape. And just like round nails, square shapes are very versatile and they could go along with any art or colour. The choices are yours. But here’s a take—a square shape mostly has a more straight-across edge. So if you’re blessed with a cuticle that is semi-rounded, a square nail shape could make a huge difference to the look of your hands. If you prefer fresh and modern-y vibes, stick to a shorter length. But if you love funky, self-explanatory 90’s feels, ask for a slightly longer one with acrylic texture. Oh, and don’t forget to pair them with deep shades. You’ll feel fearless than ever. 

3. Stilettos Nail Shape 

There’s a reason why they’re called ‘’stilettos’’, because they mimic the shapes of the killer heel pair of shoes. Think of those Louboutins—these nail shapes also came in with a long, shar pointed tip. There’s a reason why celebrities like Cardi B, Kylie Jenner and Rihanna swear by this nail shape. They’re daring, edgy and speak for themselves. According to nail experts, this nail however, does not exactly suit everyone. They best pair with someone who has narrow nail beds and slimmer-looking fingers. The care for these shapes also ain’t easy. They require constant cleansing, especially on the tip. If you wanted to look edgier with this nail shape, cover the tip with a rhinestone. Again, if you’re not ready to fully transform your nail with this shape, start by playing around with pressed-on nails.

4. Coffin Nail Shape 

Yet another celeb favourite nail shape. Coffin nail shapes—mirroring the shape of the real coffin—came in angled sides and a squared-off tip shape. As of this shape, nail experts suggest those who prefer bold and aren’t afraid to make a statement to try these nail shapes as they are more edgier and fiercer than stilettos. But same as her sister stilettos, coffin nails also require a strong maintenance, and constant fillers. So the moment you discover there’s a slight crook, get your ass to the nearest nail salon and have them fix ASAP. When choosing colours, coffin shape goes hand in hand with ombre or matte finish.

5. Squoval Nail Shape 

Squoval—a mix of square and oval—the best of both worlds. If you’re a bit confused, let us explain the condition of the squoval shape. Basically, your nail technician will file a straight square shape first and then proceed to curve the edge or the tips of your nails with a rounder look. And just like the round-nail shape, this style is great for those of you who constantly had to face an active lifestyle. Any colours or art suits these nail shapes. You don’t have to worry much about it.

6. Almond Nail Shape

There’s nothing more chic and flattering than an almond nail shape. If you have slender fingers and longer nails, we suggest you try this nail style. Even though it requires constant salon maintenance, these nail shapes will make you feel more modern and trendy. Choose for pastel colours if you decided to go on with this shape. Or else, decorate the tip of your finger with different shades or nail art. Now that’s an insta-worthy picture. 

7. Ballerina Nail Shape 

Ballerina nails—if you haven’t known it yet, they are slightly similar to coffin nails but the sides are a little more curved before they could even hit the flat tip. They honestly mirrored the shape of a ballerina’s pointe shoes. How cute? If you would like to try this nail shape, please avoid messy nail art. As they’ll look to be consuming. We suggest you go for a deeper shade like bright red or black. Chanel your inner femme fatale! 

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