Pic credit: Nails of LA
Are you a creature of habit when it comes to your nail shape and shade selection? OR do you follow instagram-led trends and switch things up regularly? Believe it or not, there is a science behind nailing the best shape and colour to accentuate the good bits and soften the bad bits.
We asked Mavala’s National Trainer, Tracey Winder, to share her insights.
Nail shape selection has evolved to offer lots of choice, ranging from the more traditional oval shape through to a statement stiletto style. Personal preferences aside, your hands and fingers play a role in determining the best shape for you.
Round
Pic credit: Dry By London
As the name suggests, a circular shape to follow the natural contour of your finger. The tip of the nail is filed to form a ball-like finish. This shape works well for anyone looking to elongate their fingers and gives the illusion of wide nail beds appearing thinner. This is a classic low maintenance manicure option and the most durable style.
Wear with… a delicate nude or pastel that compliments your natural skin tone.
Oval
Pic credit: Bernadette Leva
Nails are filed into more of an egg-like shape and are required to grow slightly longer to give this effect. Naturally this shape extends the appearance of your fingers and is feminine-looking. More of a classic shape that suits all nail lengths. It’s particularly well suited for nail art.
Wear with… bold shades, bright reds and nail art.
Square
Pic credit: Bernadette Leva
A more modern take on nail shapes, with nails filed straight across the top and set off with 90 degree angles on the side. This is the perfect shape if you have narrow nail beds and slim, long fingers.
Wear with… strong, solid dark shades.
Squoval
Pic credit: Nails by Mets
This is a universally flattering nail shape being a hybrid shape of square and oval. It is one of the most commonly requested styles - squoval nails flatter all fingers and because of this, they never go out of style. They also work with both short and long nails and they help keep nails strong.
Wear with… any shade suits this shape.
Stiletto
Pic credit: Natalie Minerva
A dramatic nail shape that ends up looking just like the shoe heel… long and pointy. Long, strong nails are essential to pull this look off for any length of time.
Wear with… metallics shine on this shape.
Coffin or Ballerina
Pic credit: Nails Daily 24
Mimicking the shape of a coffin or a ballerina pointe shoe, this shape is tapered on the sides with a straight edge on the tip.
Wear with… lighter shades to offset the hard lines of the coffin nail.
Almond
Pic credit: So Nailicious
Nails are filed into an elongated, almond shape with soft tapered tips. This shape works best with medium-length nails. Nails need to be strong and sturdy to pull this style off.
Wear with… any nude colour tone.
3 essential steps for a perfect manicure
Base coat: a foundation for the manicure to lock in colour and protect the nail
Top coat: to seal and shield the manicure and prevent shipping
Fast-dry solution: to provide instant touch dry, prevent smudging and condition cuticles.
