Choosing a nail shape that suits your hands (and your job)
Almond, squoval, coffin or short square — shape is a practical decision before it's an aesthetic one. A guide to picking one that survives your week.
Shape decides how a set looks, how long it lasts, and whether you'll be filing it down in a week. Start with your hands and your day, then choose.
Short square and squoval
The most durable options. The stress point sits close to the finger, so impact travels into the nail bed rather than snapping a long edge. Best for typing, healthcare, hospitality and anyone with their hands in gloves.
Almond and oval
Visually lengthen shorter fingers and wide nail beds. The tapered tip is more fragile than square, so ask for a slightly thicker apex if you want length without breakage.
Coffin and stiletto
Statement shapes that need structure — usually a hard gel or acrylic overlay with a properly built apex. Expect a three-week cycle and plan around a first week of adjusting how you use your hands.
Match the shape to the cuticle line
The reliable rule: mirror your cuticle curve at the free edge. Rounded cuticle, rounded tip. It reads balanced from every angle and needs less correction as the nail grows out.
