Our nails are not only functional, but are also an important fashion accessory. Whether it's adding a touch of colour or experimenting with different nail shapes, there are plenty of ways to style our nails and make them fit our personality. In this blog, you will read about some of the most popular nail shapes and their corresponding personalities.
What nail shapes are there?
Round nail shape
Round nails are one of the most classic and popular nail shapes and suit almost all hand shapes. They are easy to maintain and suit any occasion. The round nail shape is the most natural shape and therefore the easiest to make. It requires little filing and is suitable for people who don't have time for extensive nail care. Round nails suit people who like a classic and a timeless look.
Oval nail shape
Oval nails have a rounded shape that is slightly more pointed than round nails. Oval nails are perfect if you have slightly smaller hands and wider nail beds. This nail shape is relatively easy to make and requires only a little filing to achieve the desired shape. This shape creates an elegant and feminine look and suits people who like to exude a groomed and stylish look.
Square nail shape
Square nails have a flat top and right angles. This nail shape suits a slightly larger hand with wide nail beds and is suitable for people who like a neat and businesslike look. This nail shape is also relatively easy to make. Square nails are also easy to maintain and are a good choice for people who don't have much time to take care of their nails.
Squoval nail shape
Squoval nails are a popular nail shape that is a combination of two different shapes: the square nail shape and the oval nail shape. As the name suggests, squoval nails have a square base with rounded corners, giving them an oval shape. This nail shape is popular because it combines the best features of both nail shapes. The square nail shape has a sleek, neat look, while the oval nail shape has a softer, more elegant look. The combination of these two shapes creates a nail shape that is both sleek and elegant. Suitable for people with short fingers, this shape is both professional and stylish. People who prefer squoval nails tend to be practical and have a penchant for simple things.
Almond nail shape
Almond nails have a pointed shape that resembles an almond. This nail shape suits a narrow hand with long fingers well and is popular among people who like a dramatic and striking look. This nail requires more filing than the round, oval or square nail shapes. It is important to follow the nail beds and gradually form a point at the top. Almond nails are ideal for people who like to experiment with different colours and nail designs.
Coffin nail shape
Coffin nails have a long, flattened shape that resembles the shape of an inverted ''V''. As with the Almond nail, it is important to follow the nail beds and file the top off straight. This nail shape is suitable for people who like a dramatic and edgy look. Coffin nails are popular among people who like to experiment with different nail polish colours and designs.
How to file your nails in the right way.
Some nail shapes are easier to make than others because of the way they are filed and shaped.
Easy to file:
Round nail shape
For this nail shape, file your nails in a semi-circle. Always make sure that you always file in one direction. This works best if you file from the outside to the centre.
Oval nail shape
For the oval nail shape, file the sides of your nails straight. File the top in the middle of the nail round.
Square nail shape
To get the angular shape, file the sides of the nail and the centre straight. Make sure the that all sides of the nail are filed equally straight.
A little bit more difficult to file:
Almond nails
This nail requires more filing than the round, oval or square nail shapes. File the nail edges straight and then subtly round off the tip of your nail to get an almond shape. This nail shape looks best with long nails.
Stiletto nails
For this shape, the nail corners are filed towards the centre of the nail and the top is straightened. This nail also looks best with a long nail.
What are the trends in nail shapes?
There are a few nail shapes that we see a lot of in 2023.
Almond nails remain a favourite because of their elegant shape. They are also versatile and can be both subtle and striking, depending on the length and colour.
Square nails are currently very popular for their sleek and neat look. This nail shape fits well with the current trend of minimalist and understated styles.
Squoval nails are a popular nail shape. This shape combines a square base with rounded corners. The result is a nail that looks natural, yet has a certain strength and durability.
Extreme nail shapes
If you want something different with your nails, the nail shapes below are a fun option to try out:
Stiletto nails
Stiletto nails are long nails that extend to a pointed tip. These are still in fashion for their dramatic and eye-catching look. Although they are not as practical as other nail shapes, this is a great option for special occasions.
Lipstick nails
Lipstick nails are shaped like an inverted U and resemble the shape of a lipstick. This nail shape is relatively new and trendy and is becoming increasingly popular for its unique and playful look.
Mountain Peak
The mountain peak looks a bit like the stilleto nail, but the tip is slightly less sharp and more rounded. A good choice if you want to stand out, but find the stiletto nail a little too extreme.
Ballerina
The ballerina nail shape is very similar to the almond shape, but has a sharper tip. The nail shape is inspired by a ballerina's pointe shoes.
Wide
This flared nail shape runs wide and gives you just a bit more space to get started with nail art.
To conclude there are several different nail shapes to suit different personalities. Whether you opt for a bold stiletto nail shape or a classic oval nail shape, the important thing is to choose a nail shape that suits your personality and style and makes you feel confident and comfortable.
