A visual guide to every single shape and style

Nail Shapes Explained: From Squoval to Stiletto, Here's What They All Look Like...
Nail Shapes Explained: From Squoval to Stiletto, Here's What They All Look Like...
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Stiletto nails

Like a stiletto heel, this statement shape is super-long and leads to a sharp point. They might look fierce but they’re vulnerable and can be prone to breakage, especially on natural nails. Just don’t ask us how you’re supposed to text with these talons.

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Square nails

If you have a narrow nail bed this style will seriously flatter your fingers, but if not it might be best to avoid… The flat tip gives the illusion of extra width, making nails appear wider than they actually are.

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Round nails

Usually short and simple, a rounded nail shape is filed into a perfect semi-circle. It’s a classic look ideal for those who want a low maintenance manicure – this is most durable style.

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Pointed nails

Not as tapered at the stiletto nail, sides are generally kept pretty straight until the top, when they are filed into a triangular tip. As with some of the other long nail shapes, this one is best suited to acrylics, as natural nails are more likely to soften and break.

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Oval nails

Long or short, oval nails are always going to be a winner. This shape is considered flattering as the curved edge almost mirrors the curve of the cuticle, which (in theory) is the ideal nail style for everyone. Interesting, huh?

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Coffin nails

We have Instagram to thank for making coffin nails oh-so popular, embraced by the likes of Kylie Jenner, the trend is going no where fast.

Unless you opt for acrylics, this style demands that you grow your nails preeetty long. They’ll need to be long enough that both sides can be filed into a tapered point (similar to a stiletto nail), and then the tip of the nail squared off.

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Almond nails

Usually very long, this elongated shape has a tapered tip. Even if you have a narrow nail bed, they can become weak at the tips on natural nails so many people opt for acrylics with this style.

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