How to Find Your Signature Nail Shape

Nail polish gets all the love and limelight here at Londontown, but we wanted to take a moment to talk about the importance of finding your signature nail shape. The right shape can enhance your hands, complement your style, and impact your day-to-day comfort. But with so many options to choose from, how do you find the one that's perfect for you?

Ahead: our guide to finding your signature shape.

How to Choose Your Perfect Nail Shape

Finding the right nail shape comes down to personal preference and practicality. Consider the following factors when deciding or discovering your look:

• Hand shape. The shape of your nails should harmonize with the shape of your fingers and hands. For example, almond or oval shapes can elongate the fingers, while squoval and round shapes can soften the appearance of wider fingers.
• Lifestyle. Do consider your daily activities. If you're active or use your hands frequently, a more practical, sturdier squoval or round shape might be a better fit.
• Personal style. Your signature aesthetic and wardrobe preferences play a significant role. Almond or stiletto shapes can add a bold, trendy, or hyper-feminine touch, while oval or round shapes tend to have a timeless elegance. Round or short, square shapes tend to give a cooler, more versatile look.
• Nail length. Your ideal shape is informed by your natural nail length. Some shapes work better with longer nails (like stiletto or coffin), while others are perfect for shorter lengths.
• Overall nail health. Your nail’s natural condition and strength can also be a determining factor. Nails that call for length may require more maintenance and care than square or rounded ones.

Types of Nail Shapes

The Classic: Squoval

Squoval nails are the best of both worlds, giving you the chic edge of a square shape with the softer look of a more natural oval. This timeless shape complements most finger types and is perfect for those who want an effortlessly chic look that's both practical and fashionable.

#LondonTip: Squoval nails are sturdy and don't easily snag on things, making them great for everyday wear.

The Chic: Almond

Almond nails are the epitome of sophistication, featuring a tapered, slender shape that elongates your fingers. This shape might be considered trendy, but to us, it’s a classic that enhances the natural shape of most nails.

#LondonTip: Almond nails are visually striking and create the illusion of longer, more slender fingers. If you really want to go for that mannequin-hand look, go for an opaque nude lakur that matches your skin tone.

The Sophisticated: Oval

Oval nails are forever a classic, timeless option. They're gently curved at the edges and suit most hand types. Plus, oval shapes look great no matter your nail length: keep it short or grow it out.

#LondonTip: Oval nails are the most versatile nail shape to date! They complement all nail lengths and styles.

The Modern: Coffin (a.k.a. Ballerina)

Coffin or ballerina nails are easily recognizable for their squared-off tips and flat, top—often tapered—edge. This shape requires length for maximum effect and is perfect for anyone who loves to make a statement.

#LondonTip: If you love nail art, a coffin/ballerina shape gives you the most surface area for stickers, designs, and more.

The Natural: Round

Round nails are another timeless and versatile shape. They're easy to care for too, giving you a simple, natural look that works for every outfit or occasion.

#LondonTip: Round nails are low-maintenance and ideal for anyone who wants a clean, natural look.

The Head-Turner: Stiletto

Stiletto nails are long and pointed, resembling the shape of a stiletto heel by coming to a point (versus a flat edge, like with the coffin or ballerina nail). They're perfect for those who want to command attention with a dramatic and daring look.

#LondonTip: Stiletto nails are incredibly lengthening. If you love the idea of the almond but prefer something more dramatic, this is it.