Fashion lead nail shapes such as the Stiletto, Lipstick and Arrow Head come and go, but more often than not I’ve found that ladies stick to their go-to classic shape without a second thought. Read on to find out what the most popular nail shapes may say about you and how to get that perfect shape.

Round

This classic shape says it all; you’ve worked the same style for some time and you most likely stuck with the same manicurist for years. The wardrobe is timeless over trend-based pieces and you like your nails to take a backseat.

How to - Make sure the sidewalls are of equal length, perfectly straight but tapered in slightly (at the same angle on each side) toward the centre line.  At the free edge, the arc from both sides of the centre line to the sidewalls should be more dramatically curved until a rounded appearance is achieved. Always use the nail file from the underside of the nail, so you can see what you are doing. Work from the centre line to the sidewalls on each side and make sure the arc of the curve is the same from both sides of the centre line to the sidewalls. There will be no corners on this nail.

Square

This shape is overall less subtle than the almond or oval-based shapes so you’re probably the type of person who doesn’t mind trying loud colours or exploring nail art. Your style runs the same course with experimental or statement pieces of clothing.

How to - Make sure the sidewalls are of equal length, perfectly straight and parallel to each other. At the free edge, the angle from both sides of the centre line to the sidewalls should be at 90°

Oval/Almond

A diluted version of the pointed stiletto nail, this is for those with modern taste. Quality is important to you, and you won’t go for anything that looks dated or vintage. This softer version of the stiletto has a future-classic appeal that suits you perfectly.

How to - Make sure the sidewalls are of equal length (short in this case), perfectly straight but tapered in slightly (at the same angle on each side) toward the centre line. The angle of the arc from the centre line to the sidewalls should be at 45°.  The centre point and all other angles should be gently softened from the underside of the nail using a rocking motion with the nail file. Nothing should look sharp otherwise that’s the Stiletto shape.

Squoval (square-oval)

You’re not into experimenting and you like simple, elegant and halfway between a rounded and square nail your manicure matches your style that errs on the classic side which you update regularly with seasonal accessories.

How to - Make sure the sidewalls are of equal length, perfectly straight but tapered in slightly (at the same angle on each side) toward the centre line. At the free edge, the arc from both sides of the centre line to the sidewalls should be very gently curved and not straight across. Use your nail file from the underside of the nail and gently soften or ‘round’ (use no pressure) each corner off by using a gentle rocking motion.

The Right Tool For The Job:

My Crystal Nail File is crafted with the finest lead crystal carefully treated to create the perfect nail file. It simply turns the nail edge to dust. Some traditional nail files can leave the nail edge rough or uneven but the crystal file smoothes the nail completely, sealing it, leaving not a trace of a split or catch. It can also be used to file back and forth unlike some emery boards, It even comes with a 25 year guarantee, what more could you ask for?

I truly believe that the best shape you can you wear you nails is the one that matches your hands and the best way to achieve this is to mirror the shape of your cuticle.

So tell me…

1) After reading, do you agree that your nail shape describes you?

2) Do you have a favorite nail shape, if so, what is it?

Thanks for reading my blog and please leave your comments below!