Your nail shape can totally change the way your hands look—it can add elegance, give a bold edge, or keep things soft and simple. The best shape is one that suits both your hands and your everyday life. From simple and effortless to trendy and eye-catching, your ideal nail shape should highlight your hands and match your personal style.
From classic to bold, these top 8 nail shapes (plus styling tips!) will help you pick the perfect shape for your next salon visit.
- Round
Best for: Short nails with a wide nail bed
Round nails are a timeless choice and ideal for natural nails. They’re simple to shape at home and perfect for anyone who prefers low-maintenance nails that are less prone to breakage. The soft, curved edges help give the illusion of longer nails, which can make your hands appear more slender and elegant.
2. Almond
Best for: Short, wide fingers – helps elongate the look of nails and hands
Almond nails are a go-to shape for many, thanks to their wide base and tapered sides that create a flattering, elongated effect. This elegant style gives fingers a longer, more refined appearance. However, it works best on longer natural nails—so you may need to grow yours out first. If your nails are on the shorter side, don’t worry! You can still achieve the almond look using nail extension options like Gum Gel, Hard Gel, or Builder Gel.
3. Oval
Best for: Small hands; medium to long nails
Oval nails, similar to almond but with a softer, rounder tip, are perfect for medium-length nails and work well with both short and wide nail beds. This shape is especially flattering for smaller hands, as it visually elongates the nails, creating the illusion of longer, slender fingers.
4. Square
Best for: Long fingers; slim hands
Square nails offer a sleek, modern look with straight edges and a flat, squared-off tip. They’re practical and low-maintenance, making them a popular choice. However, this shape works best on longer nails—so if your nails are short, consider using extensions before trying this style.
5. Squoval
Best for: short nails with low maintenance
Think square nails but slightly curved at the edges. No matter what size your nails are, squoval nails are a great choice as they follow the outline of your cuticle. They don’t require much nail length, so those of you with shorter nails can work with this shape.
6. Ballerina
Best for: Long nails; trendy, fashion-forward looks
Ballerina nails are characterized by their long length and tapered sides that end in a flat, squared-off tip—resembling the shape of a ballerina’s slipper. This dramatic style is perfect for those wanting a bold, statement-making manicure. Because of their length and shape, they work best on longer nails or with nail extensions and require a bit more care to maintain.
7. Stiletto
Best for: Long acrylics or nail extensions
Stiletto nails are the ultimate glam statement, featuring an elongated, sharply pointed tip. This dramatic shape is perfect for enhancing shorter fingers or making a bold, standout impression. While not the most practical for everyday wear, they’re undeniably striking and are best achieved using nail extension products like Gum Gel.
8. Lipstick
Lipstick nails are named after the slanted tip of a fresh lipstick bullet. The shape is angular and diagonal at the tip, making it bold and high-fashion. These nails look stunning in bold colors like red, hot pink, or even chrome, similar to your favorite lipstick shades!