“This shape is ideal for short- and medium-length nails, and long if you’re going for a ’90s aesthetic,” says Russell. “Sharp corners can be prone to breaking so not advised for heavy-handed labored lifestyles. It also requires weekly reshaping as nails grow out.”
According to Green, this shape is best for those with long, narrow nail beds, and anyone who likes a low-maintenance mani.
Stiletto Nails
Stiletto nails
Stiletto nails
Like the heel of a killer pair of shoes, stiletto nails have a long, pointed tip. They are daring and edgy and a popular choice with celebrities like Cardi B and Rihanna. “Stiletto nails are sharply pointed at the tip, creating a dramatic and edgy look,” Russell says. “This shape requires long nails. A statement-making nail shape. They’re high-maintenance but high fashion and great for special occasions for wearing bold nail art.”
Lee agrees, noting that this nail shape is best with long nails and narrow nail beds. It’s also especially popular with acrylics, so if you’re looking for an edgy look, this is for you, says Lee. “Since stilettos are longer and done mainly with acrylics, you want to make sure you care for them so they last long and don’t use them as tools. Rhinestone designs are great for this shape since you have a lot of space to work with.”
Coffin Nails
Coffin nails
Coffin nails
Another celeb favorite? Coffin, which features angled sides and a squared-off tip to create the coffin shape. Lee recommends coffin nails for those who aren’t afraid of a bold look and says the trend looks amazing on slender fingers with acrylic nails. “Like stiletto, these require salon maintenance, so make sure to get your fills when needed,” she says. “Also, don’t use them as tools to help them last longer.” Coffin nails look cool with any color, but a subtle ombré or matte finish adds extra edge.
“It features tapered sides and a flat, squared-off tip, suiting those with long, slender fingers with angled cuticles,” says Green. “This nail shape will require salon maintenance but provides the perfect canvas for all nail art. For a truly bold nail look, use the neon pink 45 Second Speedy Shade in Blake.”
Squoval Nails
Squoval nails
Squoval nails
A squoval nail shape combines two looks in one—a mix of square and oval. “It’s a perfect amalgamation of the square and oval nail shape,” says Green. “This hybrid is for
those who like the flat edge of the square but prefer the rounded corners of the oval. It’s also a
universal shape that looks good on all nails.”
To get the look, you file straight across for a square shape first, but round out the edges. “Squoval nails combine the elegance of oval shapes with the straight edges of square nails, offering a balanced and versatile look,” adds Russell. “This shape is ideal for short, medium and long nails. It offers the strength of an oval as there’s no sharp corners, but has the clean look of a square.” That said, it does require weekly reshaping as nails grow out.
Almond Nails
Almond nails
Almond nails
“Like oval nails, almond nails are filed down the sides and have a more tapered point,
like the look of an actual almond,” says Green. “Choosing this shape will instantly give your mani a touch of glamour.” She adds that this shape works well at lengthening and creating the look of slimmer fingers.
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