The mountain peak shape is an edgy, more functional option for the client who likes the look of the stiletto but can’t commit to the length. Styling: Darker color tones, nail art, color mixing, crystals, gems, glitter, patterns, and more.īest For: People who want their nails to be a real accessory and make a statement. It’s a fave of Cardi B, which pretty much speaks for itself. Resembling a claw, this is a fierce, daring look that evokes true vixen vibes.

This badass, long nail shape resembles the heel of a stiletto, coming to a sharp point at the tip. Stiletto shapes are for the client who makes #moneymoves. The nail should be filed straight across with the corners rounded ever so slightly, unlike the square shape, which has a hard, sharp 90-degree angle.īest For: A natural look good for short, wide fingers or long and thin ones. It is a more natural alternative to the square nail and perfect for the client who likes a flat edge but hates sharp corners. This nail shape is a merge between square and oval-shaped nails. Styling: Unexpected shades, metallics, and bold reds.īest For: A natural look that elongates short or wide fingers. They curve only slightly, extending from the fingertip while maintaining a short length and mimicking the natural angle of the fingertip. Ovalīest for shorter acrylic extensions, the oval nail is a simple, natural look ideal for those who often work with their hands or just prefer shorter nails. Styling: Bright, bold, high-shine nail polishes or a French.īest For: Thin hands and long fingers, or thin long nail beds. If your client prefers a long nail-the square should taper just slightly, but if they prefer them short, do a sharp square, no tapering necessary. It is durable, reliable, and totally timeless. This shape is ideal for low-maintenance clients that don’t always make their two-week fill appointment. This classic shape works on long and short nails alike. Styling: Neutral or moody polish color tones, with a matte finish or high shine.īest For: Long nails, narrow nail beds, and elongating short or wide fingers. When filing this shape, you’d take the same approach as you would with the Almond shape, but file the tip flat to a straight edge instead of rounded. This style looks best on long nails, often sported by Kylie Jenner, the acrylic queen herself. Coffin/BallerinaĬoffin and ballerina nail shapes are interchangeable-they mean the same thing. Styling: Pretty versatile, looks great with nail art, ombre, or a funky, abstract polish design.īest For: Long nails, narrow nail beds, elongating short or wide fingers. Instead, it is subtly rounded off at the tip. This princess-like style gradually thins as it extends from the nail but doesn’t come to a point like the stiletto. This style really looks best on long nails and is very feminine and dainty. AlmondĪlmond nails look precisely like an almond. Whether your client is looking for simple neutrals, negative space nail art, or smiley-face designs on each nail-we’re here to help you know just what they’re talking about when they say “what Billie Eilish has!” (hint: it’s probably long stilettos with black and lime green flames). On the flip side, maximalism is a thing, too, with TikTokers rocking chunky, colorful rings with mismatched vibrant nail polish colors different on every nail. Today, we’re seeing a trend towards minimalism, from “capsule closet” wardrobes to home decor, and this is no doubt being reflected in your nail client’s requests. The 90s were all about dark tones like blacks and burgundy until the French manicure made its comeback in the 2000s-and is still going strong as a pretty timeless style. During the 70s disco era, glitter was all the rage until the 80s caught on with square-shaped acrylics with vibrant colors. They change as much as jeans do, from low-rise bell-bottoms to skinny jeans to high-waisted mom jeans. Nail shape trends change with each generation. Let’s get clear on what exactly each nail shape is called, what they should look like, and which are the most popular.įrom Kylie Jenner to Cardi B, we’re breaking down all the hottest acrylic nail shapes. The problem is that they may not know what the name of it is. Whether you love it when your clients come in with an inspo photo of how they want their nails to look or they just want you to freestyle-one thing every nail client knows is the shape they imagine their nails to look when they’re finished. Of course, a swipe of polish and a trendy design completes the nail look-but the foundational element of a great acrylic manicure is in the shape and how it complements both your client’s natural fingers and tips, as well as the color, design, and style they are aiming for.

The right shape can elongate short fingers or maximize nail beds already blessed with length. Don’t underestimate the power of the nail’s shape.

Natural acrylic nail shapes