Experts explore eight popular nail shapes and explain which one is best for your next mani.
Key Takeaways
Ever wonder what nail shape you should ask for at the salon?
Does the length of your fingers or the width of your nail bed matter?
Aside from which color to choose, your nail shape can significantly impact the final look of your mani.
Some shapes tend to make your fingers look longer, while others make them look wider or more natural.
Round
Round nails mirror the contour of the nail with a circular edge at the tip.
If your fingers are short, round nails should be your go-to shape.
To achieve this shape, take your file and follow the natural shape of your nail.
For best results, ensure the sides are straight and the top edge is rounded.
This elongating shape works well for small hands with shorter fingers.
Get the nail shape by filing in a straight line.
“This shape will lengthen and make short fingers look slim.”
To create this look, file the sides into a tapered point on the free edge.
This shape works well for those with naturally strong, long nails and slim fingers.
To create it, simply square off the free edge.
This shape is flattering on long and short nails.
“The shape was originally made popular by artist Park Eunkyung of Unistella Nails.”
And don’t forget to factor in your lifestyle as you choose nail shapes.
A round, oval, or almond shape might suit your nails best.
