Coffin Nails Are a Spooky-Chic Trend That Only Look Hard to Re-Create (2024)

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  • "Coffin" nails feature an oval shape with square tips.
  • The trend is extremely easy to re-create at home and, as a result, is growing in popularity.
  • Coffin nails look flattering on fingers of all shapes and sizes thanks to its tapered tips.

If you want a bold manicure but the stiletto nail shape is just a little too extra for you, then you can consider coffin nails a perfect compromise. The style, which looks like an oval mani with square tips, has won over plenty of fans due to its versatility and simplicity to re-create.

Perhaps this particular nail shape sounds familiar to you but by another name. That's because the manicure can also be referred to as "ballerina" nails — in fact, that's what Miss Pop, an NYC-based nail artist, calls the design. Since the sides of the tip are rounded off, she says the finished look is "soft and chic, like a ballet slipper."

What's more, Miss Pop says that coffin nails flatter fingers of all shapes and sizes, since the style is tapered at the ends. This creates an effect that thins and elongates your hands. Although coffin nails may look high-maintenance (and whether you need acrylic tips is solely dependent on your natural set) they are deceptively easy to maintain. According to Miss Pop, "Since the ballet shape does not file off the sides completely, like the stiletto [mani does], this nail does not break as easily."

Read on for Miss Pop's step-by-step tips on how to re-create this crazy-easy trend at home.

Coffin Nails Are a Spooky-Chic Trend That Only Look Hard to Re-Create (2024)

FAQs

Why are coffin nails popular? ›

Why choose coffin nails? They elongate the fingers and provide a bigger canvas for nail art. And they obviously add a bit of edge to every outfit. They've also been seen on the fingers of myriad celebrities, from nearly all of the Kardashian-Jenners (Jenner-Kardashians?) to Zendaya.

What do coffin nails say about you? ›

If you choose a coffin-shaped nail, we'd place you as highly fashionable and daring, not as daring as those with stilettos, but you sure know how to stand out. Another unique nail shape, almond nails are long than round nails, but they taper off to a rounder edge and look best with nude, pastel colours.

Who looks good with coffin nails? ›

The coffin shape, also called ballerina shape, offers a trendy and dramatic look. It features long, tapered nails with a squared-off tip, resembling a coffin or ballerina shoe. Ideal for: This shape is well-suited for those with long and narrow fingers.

What is the description of coffin nails? ›

Coffin nails is the description of a nail shape. Some describe it as a long nail like a stiletto but with a blunt end and angles at the sides in the shape of a coffin. Some also call it a “ballerina”.

Are coffin nails hard to type with? ›

Coffin nails are bold and make you look like a star, but the tapered shape may not be the best for typing. They tend to be on the wider side and only really work in longer forms. It may be best to save these nails for when you become a press-on pro.

Who should get coffin nails? ›

Coffin nails, also known as ballerina nails, are long and narrow with a squared-off tip. They are named after the shape of a coffin, and are sometimes also called "stiletto nails." Coffin nails are a good choice for people with short, wide fingers, as they can make the fingers look longer and more slender.

What does hard as coffin nails mean? ›

In this case tough. The nail, is associated with being hard, long lasting, sharp, dangerous. You might also hear the expression, “As hard as a coffin nail” its the same, the nail in the coffin lasts years etc. Rusts but never really degrades, or be it before the coffin itself.

Are coffin nails good for chubby fingers? ›

For chubby fingers, you can opt for these nail shapes: oval, round, almond, and coffin.

Which nail shape is classy? ›

If you prefer a classic and elegant look, you may want to choose a round or oval shape. If you prefer a more edgy or dramatic look, you may want to choose a square, stiletto, or coffin shape.

What nails do men find most attractive? ›

Soft pastel shades like baby pink, lavender, or light blue can evoke a sense of sweetness and femininity. These colors are often associated with a gentle and approachable personality. Many guys find pastel nail polish attractive because it gives a feeling of innocence and charm.

Are coffin nails out of style in 2024? ›

All nails were long, exciting and daring. 2024 will feature a shift away from extremism and become more spiritual, virtual and trippy. In terms of shapes, we will see medium to longer lengths with softened stiletto, coffin and almond shapes continuing to dominate.

Should I get coffin or almond nails? ›

If you have short palms and short fingers, it's best to opt for rounded oval and almond shapes. For longer palms and fingers, consider dramatic stiletto or coffin (or ballerina) shaped styles. Almond shaped nails tend to suit everyone.

Are coffin nails classy? ›

This sophisticated shape can give you an elegant and classy look, regardless of how you choose to design your them. Plus, they make your fingers look slimmer, which can be a lifesaver if you enjoy wearing rings. Coffin nails also look fantastic regardless of your favorite nail length.

Why do people get coffin nails? ›

Here are some reasons to love coffin shaped nails: They elongate the fingers and provide a bigger canvas for nail art. And they obviously add a bit of edge to every outfit. Coffin nails are flattering on any shape of hand.

Are coffin nails still in? ›

Coffin nails are still very much in style for 2024. They're showing up on runways and trending in nail art for both short and long lengths.

Why do people put nails in coffins? ›

As Hannah Madden says, to hold it on; but nailing the top down also ensured the structural integrity of the coffin. Put a 150-pound body in that cheap pine box and try to carry it without a firmly attached top. Odds are the sides will collapse quite readily.

What does nail on coffin mean? ›

: something that makes it more likely that someone or something will fail, be destroyed, etc. Every mistake is one more nail in the coffin of his professional baseball career. The lawyers put another nail in her coffin today.

What is the most attractive nail shape? ›

If you prefer a classic and elegant look, you may want to choose a round or oval shape. If you prefer a more edgy or dramatic look, you may want to choose a square, stiletto, or coffin shape.

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