10 squoval nail ideas to try for an elegant spring update – from glossy gels to decorative BIAB
Classy shapes meet sophisticated designs!
Is it just me, or is there something in the air this spring? Call me dramatic, but having survived what felt like the longest winter – followed by a confusing month of rain and shine, then rain again – I'm feeling a sense of renewal. Whether it's dabbling in brighter colours (hey, butter yellow manis) or debuting a new fragrance, it's high time for some change.
If, for you, that's embracing a new nail shape this season, consider squovals. As the lovechild of square and oval nails, they feel both modern and chic like the former, but as elegant as the latter. Some have been loyal to it since the late nineties and early noughties; others have spotted squovals advertised on salon walls but are yet to try them.
IMO, it's one of the most versatile nail shapes. Whether you're opting for gels or BIAB, simple colours or intricate designs, short sets or long lengths, a softly rounded square creates the perfect canvas for all of the above. Even better? It's super low-maintenance and looks seamless, even when growing out.
Don't just take my word for it – ahead, discover 10 of the best squoval nail ideas to bookmark now for the chic-est spring update.
Milk nails
If one trend has defined 2026 so far, it's mani minimalism – and it shows no signs of stopping! Glossy, near-translucent finishes and variations of milky creams and delicate off-whites are elevated for spring with the help of squovals.
Butter yellow florals
Butter yellow is everywhere this season, from our wardrobes to our fingertips. Add a floral design (daisies and daffodils are up there with the cutest) for a playful touch, while keeping the overall look refined.
Sage cat-eyes
Equal parts lively and sophisticated, sage green feels synonymous with spring and has even propped up on SS26 runways. Add the ultra-reflective 'cat-eye' effect, and the result feels subtly glamourous.
Rosewater pink
Like clockwork, pink nails are on the rise as we delve into the warmer months. But this beautifully blushed tone below a high-shine topcoat is a great option for BIAB fans looking for a wearable set for everyday.
Fruity blues
If there's a grown-up way to make blueberries chic, this is it. For those who prefer a slightly pared-back design but are keen to embrace bold colours, this gorgeous sky blue colour works perfectly with an accent nail.
Pearly-pink chrome
Take the metallic finish of chrome and add a pearlescent baby pink gel; the result is both sophisticated and eye-catching, and suits any nail length.
Pressed foils
Pressed flowers meet rose gold foils to create this elegantly wearable gel manicure. Add a glossy topcoat, and you've aced the 'clean girl' aesthetic with ease.
Lavender haze
If pastels aren't quite for you, this misty, diffused lavender might be the dreamiest hue for spring. Ask your nail artist to infuse a nude base underneath for an almost ombré effect.
Celestial glow
Nail art can be considered more decorative than elaborate; take this starry set for proof. A natural, nude base colour complements these tiny, holographic accents (which are surprisingly easy to recreate, using a dotted nail tool).
Cafe au lait
We called it: iced latte-inspired manis are the next big thing in the 'clean' nail movement. But trust us, muted colours don't have to feel simple! When swirled, these signature brown, taupe and cream tones feel mesmerising, and are bound to attract compliments.
Beauty Assistant Urmi works across Cosmopolitan, ELLE, Harper's Bazaar, Red and Prima.
She fell into the world of beauty following a Masters in Magazine Journalism, and has been knee-deep in maximalist makeup, seasonal nail trends, and skincare myth-busting ever since. Both in and outside the office, she is best recognised by her signature red hair and elaborate set of acrylics.
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