When it comes to picking out the perfect manicure, shape is key. While often overlooked, nail shapes set the tone for your manicure. The right choice creates the perfect canvas to highlight your design and color. Here are some common shapes to know for your next trip to the nail salon.

A Guide to Must-Try Nail Shapes

1. Square

If you like to keep your nails short, a square-shaped manicure is a cute yet professional option. Filed straight across the top, with flat edges and neat 90-degree-angle corners, this shape is perfect for slim fingers. It’s a trendy and modern choice for stylish salon-goers. In terms of what’s on top, square nails pair well with dark, solid colors and geometric designs.

2. Oval

For a medium-to-long nail length, oval nails are suitable for hands of all shapes and sizes. They are curved at the tip and filed lightly at the sides to create an almost perfect oval-shaped manicure. The elongated length helps fingers appear slimmer and more delicate, making them the perfect foundation for feminine designs and bold colors like red and gold.

3. Rounded

Like square nails, the rounded shape is ideal for those who keep their nails short. It’s a classic style with a natural arched curve at the tip. This cut subtly lengthens the appearance of your fingers, which is a popular feature for those with short or wide fingers. One of the major benefits of this shape is that it elevates just about any color polish you choose.

4. Ballerina/Coffin

A bolder shape that requires a bit more upkeep, this nail is named after its resemblance to both ballet flats and coffins. The nail is long, narrow, and tapers up, where it is cut with a blunt and dramatic square tip. While chic and fun, the ballerina/coffin shape will only hold up well on long and sturdy nails. Many individuals with short or brittle nails use acrylic nails to achieve the look. This edgy style looks stunning with matte polishes and neutral or moody tones, and offers a lot of space for nail art. Go all-out and impress your friends with a uniquely gorgeous and intricate manicure.

5. Almond

Almond-shaped nails are elongated nails that taper up like the ballerina/coffin, but end in a rounded tip. They work well on long nails and give the appearance of slim fingers and hands. For these strong but chic nails, pick out a nude or pale neutral tone.
 

If you’re ready to treat yourself to a beautiful new manicure, let the experts at Simply Ravishing - The Salon work their magic. Located in Gilbert, AZ, this nail and beauty salon is dedicated to helping you look and feel your best. Let yourself be pampered with soothing skin care treatments, professional manicures and pedicures, exceptional haircuts and styling, and relaxing massages. Contact the team at (480) 558-5143 to book your appointment. For more information about their nail services, visit them online.