The Ultimate Guide: Which Nail Shape is Best For Me?

Choosing the right nail shape can drastically change the appearance of your hands, making fingers look longer, wider, or more delicate. The best shape depends on your finger length, nail bed width, and, most importantly, your lifestyle. Dive into our breakdown of the most popular nail shapes.

1. The Square Shape

The square nail shape is characterized by straight sides and a sharp, flat tip. It’s highly durable and perfect for short nails and wider nail beds. However, the sharp corners can snag easily, so it’s best for people who don't work heavily with their hands.

• Best For: Shorter nails, wider nail beds.
• Look: Bold, clean, and classic.
• Durability: High, less prone to breaking off the tip.

2. The Oval Shape

Oval nails are filed down the sides to a soft, rounded edge, resembling the shape of an egg. This classic shape elongates the fingers, making it universally flattering. It’s a great choice if you prefer medium to longer lengths and want a graceful look.

• Best For: Nearly all finger shapes and nail beds.
• Look: Elegant, classic, and subtle elongation.
• Durability: Moderate, less prone to corner breaks than square.

3. The Almond Shape

Similar to the oval, the almond nail tapers more dramatically to a soft point at the tip, mimicking the shape of an actual almond. This style is incredibly popular for creating the illusion of long, slender fingers. It requires some length, often achieved with extensions.

• Best For: Medium to long nails, petite hands.
• Look: Sophisticated, delicate, and trendy.
• Durability: Moderate; best achieved with strong gel or acrylic.

4. Coffin/Ballerina Shape

The Coffin (or Ballerina) shape is long, tapers toward the tip, but is finished with a squared-off end. This shape is dramatic and very fashionable right now. It is often created using extensions due to the length required, offering a modern, edgy statement.

Check out our trends article for more on how to style this daring shape.

5. The Stiletto Shape

Stiletto nails are the most dramatic, filed to a sharp, aggressive point. They are stunning for photoshoots and events but require significant maintenance and are not practical for daily life. They almost always require professional nail enhancements for structural support.

If you love the point but need less length, read our guide on Short Stiletto Nails.