How To Find Your Best Nail Shape

The 411 on flattering your fingers​

How To Find Your Best Nail Shape
Photo: Instagram

Modernizing your manicure doesn't have to mean straying from your signature shade. "Try experimenting with the nail shape to freshen up your look," says manicurist Skyy Hadley. Follow her expert advice to find the nail shape that suits you.

From: Harper's BAZAAR US

THE SHAPE: ROUND

BEST FOR: Elongating short or stubby fingers. BOTTOM LINE: Simple and classic, round shapes are the easiest to maintain at home or in between salon visits. The short length and natural curved edge are a no-fuss option for anyone who puts their fingers to work. WEAR IT WITH: Any shade from the sheerest nudes to the boldest brights. @nailsinc
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How To Find Your Best Nail Shape

THE SHAPE: ROUND

@nailallie
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THE SHAPE: ROUND

@luxebytracylee
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THE SHAPE: ROUND

@jinsoonchoi
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THE SHAPE: ROUND

@chelseaqueen
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How To Find Your Best Nail Shape

THE SHAPE: OVAL

BEST FOR: Wide nail beds; long length. BOTTOM LINE: Often spotted on the runways, this feminine shape elongates nails in both width and length. It's similar to the almond shape, but with blunt, more delicate-looking tips. WEAR IT WITH: Nail art. @aliciatnails
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How To Find Your Best Nail Shape

THE SHAPE: OVAL

@tenoverten
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How To Find Your Best Nail Shape

THE SHAPE: OVAL

@paintboxnails
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How To Find Your Best Nail Shape

THE SHAPE: OVAL

@karengnails
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How To Find Your Best Nail Shape

THE SHAPE: OVAL

@hannahroxit
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How To Find Your Best Nail Shape

THE SHAPE: SQUARE

BEST FOR: Wide nail beds; short length. BOTTOM LINE: A standard square shape with straight edges gives the nails a subtle edge without much effort. When filed short, they won't break easily—a practical choice for low-maintenance ladies. WEAR IT WITH: High-shine solid shades. @oliveandjune
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How To Find Your Best Nail Shape

THE SHAPE: SQUARE

@londontownusa
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How To Find Your Best Nail Shape

THE SHAPE: SQUARE

@essiepolish
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How To Find Your Best Nail Shape

THE SHAPE: SQUARE

@live.love.polish
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How To Find Your Best Nail Shape

THE SHAPE: SQUARE

@allpolished
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How To Find Your Best Nail Shape

THE SHAPE: SQUOVAL

BEST FOR: Manicure minimalists. BOTTOM LINE: Part-oval, part-square, the soft naturally curved edges of squoval shapes are never too round or too sharp, making them universally flattering on all hand shapes and sizes. WEAR IT WITH: Geometric nail art or cream-finish pastels. @zoyanailpolish
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How To Find Your Best Nail Shape

THE SHAPE: SQUOVAL

@yko1220
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How To Find Your Best Nail Shape

THE SHAPE: SQUOVAL

@opi_products
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How To Find Your Best Nail Shape

THE SHAPE: SQUOVAL

@mpnails
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How To Find Your Best Nail Shape

THE SHAPE: SQUOVAL

@jessicawashick
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How To Find Your Best Nail Shape

THE SHAPE: COFFIN/ BALLERNA

BEST FOR: Acrylic nail enthusiasts. BOTTOM LINE: This long and slim shape is squared off at the tip resembling a coffin or ballerina slipper. Meticulous salon upkeep is crucial. WEAR IT WITH: Pale neutrals or simple nail art. @bellasnailsandspa
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How To Find Your Best Nail Shape

THE SHAPE: COFFIN/ BALLERNA

@britneytokyo
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How To Find Your Best Nail Shape

THE SHAPE: COFFIN/ BALLERNA

@cndworld
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How To Find Your Best Nail Shape

THE SHAPE: COFFIN/ BALLERNA

@kyliejenner
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How To Find Your Best Nail Shape

THE SHAPE: COFFIN/ BALLERNA

@thenailboutiquenyc
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How To Find Your Best Nail Shape

THE SHAPE: ALMOND

BEST FOR: Long, slim fingers. BOTTOM LINE: Instantly slenderizing, the modern almond shape is characterized by slim sides that meet with a rounded point. Not suited for nail biters. WEAR IT WITH: Neutral polishes with a metallic element. @janarnoldcnd
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How To Find Your Best Nail Shape

THE SHAPE: ALMOND

@misspopnails
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How To Find Your Best Nail Shape

THE SHAPE: ALMOND

@nailartbyfrida
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How To Find Your Best Nail Shape

THE SHAPE: ALMOND

@polishedplymouth
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How To Find Your Best Nail Shape

THE SHAPE: ALMOND

@valleynyc
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How To Find Your Best Nail Shape

THE SHAPE: STILETTO

BEST FOR: Elongating nails and fingers. BOTTOM LINE: Unless you have the mani squad of Lady Gaga or Adele, pointy tapered nails may be a wee bit impracticable. If you do decide on this daring shape, plan on a standing appointment at your salon—for both manicures and blowouts. WEAR IT WITH: Sheer shades or tasteful designs. @jcnguyen88
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How To Find Your Best Nail Shape

THE SHAPE: STILETTO

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How To Find Your Best Nail Shape

THE SHAPE: STILETTO

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How To Find Your Best Nail Shape

THE SHAPE: STILETTO

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How To Find Your Best Nail Shape

THE SHAPE: STILETTO

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How To Find Your Best Nail Shape

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