2026: All Fingernail Shapes Explained

The Complete Nail Shapes Guide

Looking for the perfect nail shapes? Discover all different fingernail shapes — from elegant almond to edgy stiletto. Find the style that flatters your hands best.

Nail Shapes Visual Comparison

Side-by-side comparison of all 8 major fingernail shapes.Interactive Chart Coming Soon

Almond Ballerina Coffin Stiletto Square Oval Round Squoval
Find Your Perfect Shape

Complete visual guide to different nail shapes

Why Choosing the Right Nail Shape Matters

The perfect nail shape isn't just about aesthetics — it's about finding the style that flatters your unique hand shape, fits your lifestyle, and maintains healthy nails.

The right choice can elongate your fingers and complement your anatomy. For example, almond shaped nails create dramatic length, while squoval offers practically with style.

Detailed Nail Shape Analysis

01

Almond Nails

Almond nails feature a elegant shape that's wider at the base and tapers to a rounded peak, similar to the actual nut. This sophisticated shape elongates fingers and creates a feminine, refined look.

Best For

  • Short fingers
  • Asian hands
  • Wide nail beds
  • Those seeking elegant, feminine look

Not Ideal For

  • Very short natural nails
  • Highly active lifestyles (breakage risk)
02

Coffin (Ballerina) Nails

Coffin nails, also known as ballerina nails, feature a dramatic tapered shape that ends in a flat, squared-off tip. This bold, trendy shape creates a striking silhouette and provides a large canvas for nail art.

Best For

  • Long nail beds
  • Bold fashion statements
  • Nail art enthusiasts
  • Those who want trendy Instagram-worthy look

Not Ideal For

  • Short natural nails
  • Conservative workplaces
  • Highly active lifestyles
03

Ballerina Nails

Ballerina nails resemble a ballet pointe shoe with tapered sides and a straight tip. While similar to coffin, ballerina nails typically have slightly softer, more curved sides.

Best For

  • Long sturdy nails
  • Nail art canvases
  • Elegant formal look
  • Those wanting drama with softness

Not Ideal For

  • Weak natural nails
  • Very active hands
  • Short nails
04

Square Nails

Square nails feature straight, parallel sides that end in a sharp, flat edge. This classic, clean shape provides excellent strength and is practical for everyday wear while maintaining a polished look.

Best For

  • Short to medium length nails
  • Wide nail beds
  • Active lifestyles
  • Those seeking low-maintenance option

Not Ideal For

  • Very short fingers (can make them look shorter)
  • Those wanting dramatic finger elongation
05

Oval Nails

Oval nails feature a soft, rounded shape that follows the natural curve of your nail bed. This universally flattering shape creates a balanced, elegant look suitable for any occasion.

Best For

  • All hand types and finger lengths
  • Short fingers (elongating effect)
  • Wide nail beds
  • Professional environments

Not Ideal For

  • Those seeking dramatic, edgy look
06

Round Nails

Round nails feature a completely curved shape that follows the natural contour of your cuticle. This natural, low-maintenance shape is perfect for those who prefer a subtle, clean look.

Best For

  • Short natural nails
  • Active lifestyles
  • Those who prefer natural look
  • Wide nail beds

Not Ideal For

  • Those seeking dramatic finger elongation
  • Very short fingers (may not elongate enough)
07

Stiletto Nails

Stiletto nails feature an aggressive tapered shape that culminates in a sharp, pointy tip. This dramatic, edgy shape creates maximum finger elongation and is perfect for those who want to make a bold statement.

Best For

  • Long nail beds (extensions recommended)
  • Bold fashion statements
  • Special occasions
  • Those seeking dramatic look

Not Ideal For

  • Short natural nails
  • Active lifestyles
  • Everyday practical use
  • Conservative environments
08

Squoval Nails

Squoval nails combine the best of square and oval shapes - the straight sides of square with the soft, rounded edges of oval. This versatile hybrid shape offers structure without the sharp corners.

Best For

  • All hand types and finger lengths
  • Short to medium length nails
  • Active lifestyles
  • Those who want balance of modern and practical
  • Professional environments

Not Ideal For

  • Those seeking dramatic elongation
  • Very short natural nails (need some length)

Quick Comparison

At-a-glance difficulty & strength ratings.

ShapeDiff.Str.
AlmondIntermediateMed
Coffin (Ballerina)AdvancedLow
BallerinaAdvancedLow
SquareBeginnerHigh
OvalBeginnerHigh
RoundBeginnerHigh
StilettoAdvancedLow
SquovalBeginnerHigh

Nail Care Essentials

Before choosing a shape, ensure your nails are healthy and ready to be filed.

Read Care Guide

Still Unsure Which Shape Suits You?

Take our 2-minute quiz to analyze your hand shape, lifestyle, and style preferences to find your perfect match.

Take the Nail Shape Quiz