How to Choose the Best Nail Shape for You
Oval
The oval shape features tapered side walls that create an elegant, elongated look. It’s flattering on both wide and narrow nail beds, giving the nails a graceful tip and added length. To achieve the perfect oval, start by filing the side walls straight for evenness. Then, round the tips into a smooth curve, ensuring both sides are symmetrical.
Square
With its bold side walls and either sharp or rounded tips, the square shape is a timeless classic, often seen in French manicures. It works best for larger nail beds, but can make smaller nail beds appear shorter and wider. To create the square shape, file the side walls straight and perpendicular to the free edge of your nails. Once you have the basic square, use an emery board at an angle to bevel the tips.
Squoval (Square-Oval)
The squoval combines the elegance of the oval with the strength of the square, making it a versatile and popular choice for most nails. Begin by filing your nails into a square shape with straight, even side walls. Then, round off the corners until you have a soft curve along the free edge, but keep the side walls strong. Be careful not to over-file the edges.
Round
Round nails are simple and conservative, making them a great option for those who prefer short nails. This shape works well for wider nail beds, giving the illusion of slimmer nails. To achieve a round shape, file the side walls straight, as you would for a square, and then gently round the free edge into a smooth curve.
Almond/Point
The almond shape features a pointed tip and is often used for acrylic nails and artistic nail designs, especially in places like Eastern Europe and Asia. Celebrities like Fergie and Lady Gaga are often spotted rocking this bold look. While it may not be the everyday style, the pointed shape can elongate and slenderize the fingers. To create almond nails, file the side walls evenly and taper the tips to your desired point.
How to Choose the Right Shape for You
Deciding which nail shape suits you best depends on your nail bed shape and personal preferences. For wider nail beds, try a squoval shape. For narrower nail beds, a sharp square shape can help add width and strength. If you prefer keeping your nails short, a round shape is ideal for low-maintenance care. You can also use the shape of your lunula (the half-moon area at the base of your nails) to help guide your choice. A more curved lunula pairs well with oval or round shapes, while a flatter lunula works better with square or square shapes.