All the Different Nail Shapes and Who They're Best Suited for, According to Nail Artists

“This square-meets-oval hybrid is my favorite because anyone can wear it—whether you have short, medium, or long nails—plus, it’s modern and soft,” says Choi. The catch? It’s easy to mess up. “People make the mistake of filing straight across the top and or curving the corners too much,” she explains. Instead, create a subtle arc at your tips and then connect the sides so there’s a natural taper.

Who it's best for: Like Choi said, it suits any nail length, so get ready to give it a go ASAP.

Unlike an oval nail, which has only slightly tapered sides, this nail shape is more extreme. “It’s very glamorous,” says Choi. “It gets its name because the entire nail looks like an almond in that it’s elongated at the tip with a round base.”

Who it's best for: The almond shape looks best on medium to long nails, since plenty of length is required for it to be noticeable, says Choi.

Now, this finger-elongating shape is slightly in between a curved oval and a pointed almond. To achieve rounded tapered nails, start by filing the sides of the nail and tapering them toward the tip, then round off the edges for a smooth and softer finish.

Who it's best for: You'll need some length for rounded tapered nails, so anyone with mid-length or long nails, will be able to execute this with ease. Or with extensions or acrylics, of course.

“This is a very soft, natural look that’s easy to maintain—even if you break a nail, you can sacrifice a little length and still keep the shape,” says Miss Pop. Move a nail file “side to side to create the gentle arc,” she says, "almost like you’re mimicking the same curve of your cuticles."

Who it's best for: “It works best on nails that are short or that have grown slightly over your fingertips,” adds Miss Pop. Translation: This is a great go-to for people who can’t grow their nails super long.

Celebs like Kylie Jenner and Khloé Kardashian are major fans of the coffin nail shape. “It’s the new stiletto,” says Choi. As for the silhouette, because it looks like a coffin (hence the name) , it requires strongly tapered sides with a very straight edge across the top. A shorter version of coffin nails can also be known as ballerina nails.

Who it's best for: Pros say it’s not for everyone, as it needs major upkeep and length (natural nails are typically not an option here unless you’re super blessed in the length department).

Named after a pair of sky-high heels, “this shape is a statement—it’s both dramatic and high maintenance,” says Miss Pop. Because stiletto nails call for super-tapered sides, pointy centers, and hella length, you’ll need to commit to extensions.

Who it's best for: “There’s no such thing as a natural stiletto nail, since they’ll break too easily in this shape,” says Miss Pop. Choi recommends getting gel overlays versus acrylics to increase the length. “Acrylics can look thick, which is why I prefer using gel instead, since the shape will always look more elegant.”

A touch skinnier than coffin nails, this square stiletto shape features long, tapered sides and a sharp square edge. The longer length makes them perfect for anyone looking to make a statement with their nails, and they're versatile enough that you can combine them with any combo of nail polish or nail art (tho, like, I'm super into the pink ombré situation pictured here).

Who it's best for: Down to try acrylics or gel extensions? Good, because they're a non-negotiable for this long nail shape.

The coolest thing about flare nails (also known as duck nails), is that you can make them as extreme or lowkey as you want. All you need is a sharp, squared edge that flares out, and the rest is totally in your hands. Prepare to get festive with your nail art—the more abstract, the better.

Who it's best for: To get the sharpest, strongest edge possible, you’ll want to try out this nail shape with acrylics or gels (unless, like, your natural nails are made of steel).