How to choose your nail shape

The shape of your nails changes how your whole hand looks. A few millimetres at the tip can make fingers look longer, softer or bolder. Here are the classic shapes you will find in our shape guide, and who each one tends to suit.

The seven classics

• Oval: rounded sides and a curved tip. Soft, feminine and easy to wear every day.
• Round: follows the natural curve of the fingertip. The most practical choice for short nails.
• Square: straight sides and a flat tip. Clean and graphic, and the classic base for a French.
• Soft square: a square with its corners rounded off, so it is less likely to catch.
• Almond: slim sides that meet in a soft point. It makes fingers look longer and more elegant.
• Coffin: a tapered shape with a flat tip, also called ballerina. Dramatic, and best on longer nails.
• Stiletto: long and pointed. A statement shape that needs length and strength.

Match the shape to your hands and your days

• Short nails or busy hands: round or soft square keep their shape and are the least likely to chip.
• Short fingers or wide nail beds: oval and almond make the hand look slimmer and longer.
• Long, slim fingers: square, coffin and stiletto show off the length.
• Not sure? Start with a soft square or an oval. Both are easy to change at your next visit.

Length and strength

Pointed and tapered shapes such as almond, coffin and stiletto need some length to look right. If your natural nails are short or break easily, hard gel adds strength and can lengthen them, so the shape you want lasts.

Bring a picture

The easiest way to get the shape you have in mind is to show it. Save a look you love in our lookbook and choose it when you book; your artist will shape your nails to suit your hands.

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Questions we are asked

Which nail shape is the strongest?

Rounded shapes such as oval, round and soft square usually hold up best, because there are no sharp corners to catch or chip.

Can I change my nail shape at my next visit?

Yes. Your artist can reshape your nails at your next appointment. Going longer usually needs an extension, such as hard gel.