It’s a confusing world of ‘coffins’ and ‘squovals’ out there, so we thought we’d clear things up. Turns out, there’s a science behind your nail shape: from lengthening short nails, to shapes that suit ‘wider’ fingers, there’s a style to suit everyone (though please don’t start hating on your fingers, we’re all beauties, no matter how large your knuckles may be). To brush up on your nail shape knowledge, and for a little inspiration pre-filing, here are the shapes to know. As for the colour – neutrals, pastels, nail art – we’ll leave that bit to you.
By Rachel Spedding
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1 Oval/AlmondTry this one if: you like to keep it natural
The shape is seriously flattering and science is the reason for it: the curved edge mirrors your cuticle. It should, therefore, be the ideal shape for everyone, but will help to create illusion of length should you need it. That’s science, right? A stripped-back neutral polish works well with this shape. Find your inner Meghan Markle (princess? Easy).
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2 Round
Try this one if: you want to lengthen shorter fingers
The go-to shape (and one you’re probably sporting accidentally) – your nails will be filed into a perfect semi-circle. This one’s the low-maintenance manicure, and most durable style (it’s also easy to keep up at home with a nail file, though not if you’ve gone gel). If you’re having a break from gel or shellac, this shape is a good one to go for as it’s sure to look nice and tidy sans polish.
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3 Square
Try this one if: you want a modern mani
The flat tip of a squared-off nail will give the illusion of extra width (that makes nails appear wider than they are), so it’s a good shape to go for if your nail beds are a little more narrow. You can go square with nails of any length, but the ‘modern’ mani is square-shaped on shorter nails. It also looks mighty-fine with pale pastel polishes – lemon is my go-to at the moment.
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4 Squoval
Try this one if: your nail beds are wide
Squoval is a hybrid shape of square and oval, so is sure to work with both short and long nails. Nails are filed flat on top for the trademark square shape, and rounded softy at the edges for a ‘squoval’ finish. The shorter shape means you can choose polish with impact – pillar box red maybe, or embrace summertime sorbet shades with neons (there’s some inspiration here).
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5 Coffin
Try this one if: you love long nails
Heaps of originality here – the coffin nail is so named because the shape looks just like a coffin. The long, tapered shape is a lot like it’s cousin – the stiletto – but with a squared-off, or flattened top. The coffin relies on serious length to finesse the silhouette, so you may need to go for acrylic extensions first. Coffin nails are often called ‘ballerinas’, owing to their ‘pointe shoe’ similarities. Cute.
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6 Stiletto
Try this one if: you want all eyes on your nails
…and can handle the upkeep. Nope, no killer heels round here (thank goodness), just very long, somewhat dangerous, pointed nails. Born in 2017, and still just as popular, stiletto nails are long in length and tapered to a trademark point. Beyoncé’s a fan, Kylie Jenner’s a fan, and I’m a fan – until something gets in my eye. Let the shape stand out with a neutral polish, or embrace the attention and go for a neon. Why not.
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