“When choosing a nail shape, your natural nail bed length and sidewall width is important to consider,” explains Jacqueline Pham, celebrity manicurist for ColorStreet. “Almond nails on longer, skinny, narrower nail beds do not require much length to create an elegant, elongated look. On shorter, wider nail beds, almond shapes may appear stubby or less flattering.”
“Next, think about your daily routine,” advises celebrity manicurist Alex Jachno. “Are your hands busy with work, hobbies or chores that require durability? Or do you prefer something low-maintenance? If you’re open to a bit more upkeep, you might enjoy a more dramatic, statement shape.”
Keep In Mind
“Nail shape is usually determined by the design you’re going for, but also by the length and strength of your natural nails,” explains Jinyoung Oh, CEO of HeyHae. That means that no shape can thrive without the right care. “For me, the corners of my nails are usually the first to break, so keeping them round adds a bit more protection,” Jachno says. “Also, using epres ePhD Bond Repair Nail Treatment ($20) to reduce breakage is my trick to keeping short or long nails—no matter the shape—beautiful.”
Almond
Loved by both clients and experts, almond nails manage to be both classic and trendy. “This shape features softly tapered sides with a rounded tip, which helps create the illusion of longer fingers,” says Oh.
Founder of Nails.INC Thea Green says almond nails strike a balance between elegance and practicality. “They are especially favored because they suit a wide range of hand shapes and are versatile for both simple manicures and intricate nail art.”
Polish to try: Zoya Nail Polish in Courtney ($12)
Squoval
“For a clean look, I recommend a squoval: a square shape with softly rounded edges,” says Pham. “This shape is timeless and complements most nail bed lengths and widths, while the rounded edges add a touch of softness.”
That touch of softness is what makes this look perfect for the minimalist, “clean girl” aesthetic. “It’s a natural-looking shape that combines the softness of a rounded nail with the clean edge of a square,” says Jachno. “It’s flattering on almost everyone and gives a natural well-groomed look. It feels so chic and effortless.”
Polish to try: Deborah Lippmann Gel Lab Pro Nail Polish in Pink Cashmere ($20)
Oval
“Oval nails have soft, rounded edges and are typically kept at a short to medium length, making them ideal for a natural, understated look,” says Oh. “An oval shape gives the nails a polished, tidy appearance that aligns well with minimalist beauty trends.”
The epitome of elegant, this shape is also more versatile than you might think. “Oval nails have a very classic vibe,” adds Green. “They actually complement most hands and nail beds, and they also elongate the fingers.”
Polish to try: Nailberry Oxygenated Nail Lacquer in Almond ($19)
Round
“Short and rounded nails are your best friend for easy maintenance,” says Jachno. “They mimic the natural shape of your fingertip, and the nails are lower-maintenance and less prone to breaking or snagging.”
This is also the preferred shape for more hands-on clients. “If you use your hands a lot or play sports, short and rounded nails are a natural-looking option that works well,” Green says.
Polish to try: Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Nail Polish in Heather Hustle ($8)
Square
“For something super trendy, go for a long square,” says Jachno. “Think ‘90s or early 2000s! These shapes are all over social media and red carpets right now. They will definitely make a statement when paired with French tips, chrome finishes or nail art.”
Pham adds that square nails also work well for wider nail beds. “They offer a clean, bold appearance. They also tend to be easy to manage and the easiest to file.”
Polish to try: Tenoverten Nail Polish in Eldridge ($14)
Coffin
“Coffin nails are a more dramatic option and feature tapered sides with a flat, squared-off tip,” Green explains. “They are very popular with celebs and look great with nail art or chrome.”
Coffin nails are a good choice to complement a bold, glamorous aesthetic. “The sleek silhouette works well with dramatic or embellished designs for a high-glam look,” Oh adds.
Polish to try: Lights Lacquer Nail Polish in Taurus ($13)
Stiletto
“Stiletto nails are filed to a sharp point and worn long, making them stand out instantly,” Oh says. “The shape adds drama, elongates the fingers, and provides a striking base for bold colors or statement designs.”
For the edgiest among us, this ultrasharp look is seen as less wearable than other long nail options. That makes them bold and alluring, especially for special occasions. “This is the look for the fashionista,” Green notes.
Polish to try: OPI Nail Lacquer in Midnight Mantra ($12)
