Detailed how-to on choosing and using nail shapes - essie (2024)

FAQs

How do you decide which nail shape is right for you? ›

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.

You can easily see how you will look in different nail shapes using YouCam Nails's Shape tool. The app supports five typical nail shapes, including square nail shape, squoval nail shape, oval nail shape, almond nail shape, and stiletto nail shape.

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Coming in as one of the most popular nail shapes out there is the squoval nail shape. A blend of the square and oval nail shapes, squoval nails make for an elegant look. Keeping the straight square edge with soft rounded edges, this balanced shape might be your new favorite staple.

round nails are the most natural and easiest to wear of all of the nail shapes. they're easy to shape, low maintenance and, because they're entirely curved, they have no sharp edges or corners to snag on clothing or surfaces.

Opt for a slightly rounded or oval shape, as it can give the illusion of longer and more youthful-looking fingers.

Oval-shaped nails are considered classic and feminine, being similar to an almond but a bit more blunt. They have softly rounded edges that follow the natural shape of the fingertip, helping elongate nails in both width and length. Square-shaped nails have straight, flat edges and sharp corners.

A fashionista's favorite, the almond nail shape is basically an elongated oval shape with slightly tapered sides and tip. This nail shape can elongate and slim your fingers and nail beds, making it an ultra-chic and sexy nail shape for just about anyone.

For chubby fingers, you can opt for these nail shapes: oval, round, almond, and coffin. These nail shapes will make your nails and fingers look longer as well as hide the chubby fingers underneath the tip of your nails.

On an oval nail shape a fingernail is rounded on the top and then tapers to a point at the tip. It is one of the most popular nail shapes as it provides a balanced and natural look. It's not too long or too short yet not too round nor too pointy.

According to Huber-Millet the classiest nail shape of all is round or square. 'A square nail shape is a timeless classic that never goes out of style,' it's a great pick for those who love a chic and simple style.

What nail shape is in style in 2024? ›

When it comes to nail shapes, the latest trends for 2024 are all about making a statement. From the sharp and bold stiletto and coffin shapes to the elegant almond and deep square silhouettes, elongated nails are taking center stage.

Whether you're wearing it as a nude or a neutral, brown nail polish is an elegant and classic shade that goes with anything, regardless of the time of year.

The square nail shape is sturdier, making it less likely to break with overlays or tip extensions. This type of nail shaping is easy to do with minimal filing while creating a clean and professional look.

Red conveys a direct attraction and is associated with sensuality and erotic interest. Black, one of the favorite colors, is considered particularly trendy and is therefore also associated with attractiveness.

For those with square-shaped hands, oval nails can soften the angular lines and create a more feminine look. On the other hand, if clients have round-shaped hands, oval nails can balance out the fullness of their fingers and create a more elongated appearance.