Round nails, square, rounded square, almond… It’s hard to find your way around the different possible nail shapes. To help you, the nail expert Maryton will show you the different nail shapes in this guide. Read on!
The round nail shape
Round nails have a free edge in the shape of an arc of a circle. This shape is ideal for short nails, because the round takes on an oval appearance and gives a harmonious result. However, it is much more suitable for hands with long and thin fingers with a fairly long plate.
This round shape is easy to achieve, you can round it more or less and accentuate the natural oval of our nail or, on the contrary, soften it. Note that if you have brittle and fragile nails, this round shape is ideal.
The square nail shape
The square shape is considered sophisticated and is particularly suitable for a French manicure. It suits most hands, because it lengthens the fingers, but it is true that it is more suitable for nails with straight parallels. It can be worn on both short and long nails. But be aware that on long nails, sharp corners can damage them more easily.
For this reason, this shape is not recommended if your nails are fragile or if you are required to do manual work. But if you insist on it, then turn to a rounded square or file very short, because the square shape makes it easier for your nails to break.
The oval nail shape
As for oval nails, the parallels are straight, then round to form a rounded tip. The shape is easy to wear and suits all nails.
In order to obtain this shape, a small minimum length is required otherwise it will be round. Moreover, after a while, your round nail will have this shape.
The almond nail shape
The almond shape is a more pronounced oval. The parallels go towards the center of the nail with more clarity and the tip is always rounded. This shape is very pretty on long nails, and it is perfectly suited to nails that narrow as well as nails whose edges are not parallel, because it brings harmony.
The pointed nail shape (or stiletto)
The stiletto nail shape brings a really original look to your manicure, but be aware that it can only be achieved on very long nails. Unlike other nail shapes, this time, the parallels move towards the center to meet and form a point. It is more suitable for long hands and thin fingers, but it can also flatter smaller hands.
Before working on the shape, know that it is recommended either:
1. to opt for a gel or resin application so that it is stronger;
2. to work directly on your nails only if they are long and healthy.
To obtain this shape, use an electric nail file and cut on each side of the nail to form a point. Be careful not to dig the edges too much otherwise your nails risk breaking at the slightest impact. Finally, finish by slightly rounding the tip to avoid scratching yourself.
Read also: How to have pretty short nails?
