What Nail Shape Should You Choose?

article by BR Tabby

The biggest manicure decision, other than polish, is what shape of nail to go for.  Round, Square, Almond, Oval, Squoval or the increasingly common Stiletto are your six basic choices.  Your decision should be a balance of personal taste and what suits your hands, finger length and natural nail shape.

Working left to right we have - stiletto, almond, oval, square, squoval and round.

Almond nails will make your fingers appear longer, whilst maintaining an element of  'style-edge'.  They're great for ladies who want a fierce look, without resorting to points.  However - it's quite a weak shape, due to the amount of the nail side edges you'll need to file.  The shape doesn't allow for much nail growth.

Almond nails work best on those with either - a short finger length and a long but narrow nail bed OR a long finger length with short but narrow nail bed.

Oval nails are a classic shape that work well on almost any one.  They're hardy - polish won't chop around the edges and they give a very feminine look to the hand. 

Oval nails are most flattering for people with short and wide nail beds; whatever their finger lengths.

Square nails are probably one of the more popular shapes, especially with the false nail explosion.  The strong shape draws attention to the hand, but you might find your polish chips more easily around the edges. 

Square nails work best on those with long fingers and long but narrow nail beds.

Squoval nails combine the best of both oval and square.  They give a more modern look than ovals, but the slightly rounded corners withstand chipping better than square nails.

Squoval nails work best on long and wide nail beds, whatever the finger length.

Round nails are perfect for those just trying to grow their nails or those who have to keep them short.  The smooth and round tip doesn't catch and tear easily, meaning you can work on strengthening your nails more effectively with this shape.

Round nails suit short fingers with short and narrow nail beds.  But they make a great 'starter' nail for any hand or nail bed shape.

Stiletto nails make a statement.  It's safe to say if you're going to be daring and rock this trend it really doesn't matter what type of hands or natural nail shape you have!  There's a few things to bear in mind - this style is weak; polish will chip easily and it will not withstand heavy duty manual activity.  And, whilst we're talking about manual activity, simple and everyday chores might be a tad more challenging.  For example, can you imagine getting your contact lenses in?!  As a fashion statement though, there is but one word.  Ferocious.

Here's a quick tip - if you're struggling to decide what shape will best suit you, have a look at your half moons and use those as a guide.  Mirroring this shape is a safe bet to a suitable nail shape.

So there you have it, our quick guide to nail shapes.  You know what's coming next right?  What shape are your nails?  Why do you love this shape?  And more to the point, have you or would you try stiletto nails?

Get chatting below!