The 4 Classic Nail Shapes
Square Nails
The square shape is defined by a straight nail with sharp edges at each corner. It’s perfect for those with long hands and slender fingers. Strong nails are particularly suited to this shape, as it enhances their natural durability.
👉 How to achieve square nails? Once your natural nails are long enough, start by filing the sides straight using a white nail file, then finish by filing the tip to create a perfectly horizontal edge. For more tips on filing your nails, check out our dedicated article here.
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Squoval Nails (Square-Rounded)
Squoval nails combine the straight edge of a square nail with slightly rounded corners. This shape is ideal for fragile nails or those in the growing phase, as it minimises breakage risks. Squoval nails offer a softer alternative to the classic square shape while maintaining a polished and structured look.
👉 How to achieve squoval nails? Follow the same steps as for square nails but gently round the corners with a nail file. The result is both elegant and easy to maintain.
Round Nails
If you have short fingers or brittle nails, round nails are your best ally. They visually elongate the fingers while maintaining the strength of the nails. Perfect for those with a shorter nail bed, the round nail shape is both practical and stylish. If you love this shape and your nails can handle a bit more length, go for an oval nail shape, which is super chic yet still easy to wear.
👉 How to achieve round or oval nails? It’s simple! File the sides of your nails following their natural curve. Then, with a gentle motion, round off the tips for a smooth and balanced finish.
Almond Nails
Almond-shaped nails are timeless and perfect for those with long, healthy nails. This elegant shape resembles an almond, with tapered sides converging into a slightly rounded tip. It’s a great choice to create the illusion of elongated fingers, offering a refined yet understated look.
👉 How to achieve almond-shaped nails? Start by filing the sides diagonally to form a soft point, then round out the tip to avoid a too-angular finish. Regular maintenance is essential to keep this shape looking flawless.
Which Nail Polish Colours Best Suit Each Nail Shape?
While you can experiment with any shade, here are some colour recommendations to enhance each shape:
Square Nails: Bold & Dark Shades
Square nails look stunning with deep, dark nail colours. Shades like Clove, Aubergine, or Anthracite emphasise the sharp, structured lines of this nail shape, giving a bold and sophisticated look.
Squoval Nails: Soft & Luminous Shades
For squoval nails, soft and radiant colours work beautifully. Shades like Active Shine, Satin, or Lemonade add a delicate glow to your nails, highlighting their effortless elegance.
Round Nails with a Sheer Touch
For round or oval nails, soft translucent or bold vibrant shades like Beige, Hortencia, or Pomegranate create the illusion of elongated nails and slender fingers with an effortlessly elegant touch. These shades add depth and dimension to round nails while maintaining a soft, delicate appeal.
Almond Nails: Anything Goes!
With almond-shaped nails, you have endless possibilities when it comes to polish shades. Daring choices like chrome or shimmer effects make a bold statement, while classic shades, from nudes to deep reds, bring a timeless charm.
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Which Nail Art Best Matches My Nail Shape?
Chic & Minimalist Nail Art for Square Nails
Minimalist lines and deep shades—why not try our Mystic Twist nail art? Start with a layer of Pale Rose, then add two strokes of the deep purple shade Mystic, letting the brush create a negative-space effect.
For a warm, gradient look, the Brown Gradient manicure is perfect for embracing the Mocha Mousse trend. Start with a base of Orme, then dab a sponge loaded with three gradient shades—Orme, Terracotta, and Chestnut. Seal everything with a Top Coat for a flawless finish.
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Subtle Nail Art for Squoval Nails
Try the Sparkly Twist, a modern take on the French manicure with a seamless ombré effect. Pair a base of Satin with a sprinkle of biodegradable Holo glitter using a glitter brush. Finish with a Top Coat to secure the shimmer.
The Reverse French is another elegant option, accentuating square nails with soft hues like Wisteria and Lemonade. Apply the colour along the cuticle and nail edge using a fine brush for precision.
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Classic Nail Art for Round Nails
The French manicure is a timeless classic that looks especially elegant on round nails. It can also be reimagined in modern variations like the French Manicure Glow, featuring a base of Active™ Glow Raspberry or Blueberry. You could also try the Mini French (a delicate, ultra-thin line at the tip) or the Reverse French, where the accent line follows the nail contour rather than the tip.
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XXL Nail Art for Almond-Shaped Nails
Long, well-prepped almond nails provide the perfect space for experimenting with graphic designs, textured effects, or contrast finishes. Try a wavy, matte-on-gloss look using the Matte Top Coat over a glossy Aubergine base.
For a warm and cosy feel, try Winter Chestnut, an artistic mix of French tips, wavy accents, and full-colour nails in shades of Hortencia and Chestnut.
If you’re in the mood for something more artistic, play with colour blocks in Mystic and Hollyhock over a soft iridescent Satin base. A fine nail art brush will help you achieve precise edges and clean lines.
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We hope this guide has helped you find the nail shape that suits you best! And, of course, that it has sparked some inspiration for your next manicure. So now, it’s your turn—get those nails perfectly shaped and beautifully polished. Let the creativity flow!
