Which Types of Acrylic Nails Will Look Best on You? A Guide

You’ve decided on the nail length you’ve wanted, you’ve selected a color, and you’ve chosen a type. So what’s left?

The perfect nail shape!

While it might not seem as important as some of the other aspects of acrylic nails, the shape you choose plays a big role in their overall look. On top of that, some nail shapes just don’t match certain fingers, looks, or styles.

So what are the different shapes you have to choose from?

Keep reading to learn about how to rock some of the different types of acrylic nails. 

Rounded Acrylic Nails

Rounded acrylic nails are one of the more common types. In this classic look, a rounded shape brings together short lengths and curved edges. 

If you’re someone who wants to have beautiful nails but doesn’t want to worry about not being able to do day-to-day tasks, rounded acrylic nails can give you the best of both worlds. They look beautiful, but their short length won’t hold you back in any way.

Going with a rounded shape also helps the nails be more durable. You won’t have to worry about chipping or breaking them as much as with other nails, ensuring that you’ll look great with them for a long time. 

Rounded acrylic nails work great for all hands, but especially with people who have shorter or chubbier fingers. They’ll help make your fingers look longer and will also align with your fingers’ natural contour. 

Oval-Shaped

Oval-shaped acrylics are longer than their rounded counterparts. They mimic the natural shape of your nail but also extend out a bit.

This is a great choice for someone looking for a feminine shape. They’re simple but elegant, and you can use them to dress up or down a certain look.

Being a more natural-looking shape also means that oval-shaped nails are another one of the more durable options. They’re strong, and even the clumsiest people will have a hard time breaking them. 

If you have shorter nails or wider nail beds, oval-shaped acrylic nails can be a good choice. They’ll make them look longer and can help cover up their true length. 

Square-Shaped

As opposed to having the softer, refined edges of the previous nail shapes, square-shaped acrylics do things a little bit differently. They have angular edges, resembling a square when shorter or a rectangle when longer.

If you’re looking for a bolder option that makes a statement, square-shaped nails might be just what you’re looking for. They’re trendy and require a certain amount of “oomph” to pull off. 

Square-shaped acrylics are great for people who have longer fingers and slim hands. They’re also great for those who don’t want to go to the nail salon more than they need to, as they’re another durable choice!

Part Square and Part Oval

If you’re looking for a hybrid option, you can always combine square-shaped and oval-shaped nails together. 

This takes some of the perks of both nails and puts them into a single package. You get the sharp and dramatic edges that come with squares but pair it with the softness that comes from the rounded corners of ovals.

Nails that are part square and part oval can work well with any hand shape, finger type, or nail. You also have the flexibility to make them long or short, letting you customize them into whatever length looks best on you. 

Stiletto-Shaped

If you’re looking to unleash your inner Cardi B, Rihanna, or Lana Del Rey, consider getting stiletto-shaped acrylics. These end in a pointed tip, and are a favorite choice for many celebrities.

Stilleto-shaped acrylics are one of the boldest options you can choose from. They’ll stand out without a doubt, and can also help your nails look longer. 

While stiletto-shaped nails are trendy and stylish, they’re definitely not practical. You’ll find it difficult to do many basic tasks, and you’ll also find them easy to chip or break.

No wonder celebrities like them—they have assistants to do everything for them!

Almond-Shaped

Almond-shaped nails are another variation of the classic oval shape. They look like—you guessed it, almonds.

This shape comes with slimmer sides, as well as tapered and rounded tips. They’re stylish and elegant and create a sense of sophistication. 

If you have thinner nail beds, almond-shaped nails can be a solid choice. They help elongate your fingers and make your nails appear longer, which means that they work well with most hand and finger shapes. 

Ballerina Acrylic Nails

Depending on which salon you go to, you’ll hear this nail shape referred to in different ways. Some call them “ballerina acrylics”, while other places call them “coffin nails”.

Ballerina acrylics certainly sound nicer than coffin nails, but the shape is the same. They feature a long and tapered shape with squared-off tips.

Aside from making your fingers appear longer, they also provide a large canvas for nail art and nail drills. If you have some elaborate design in mind, they could be a good choice for you.

Many celebrities also wear ballerina nails since they’re another way to make a powerful statement. 

Consider the Different Types of Acrylic Nails 

If you’re looking for beautiful, long nails but don’t have the time to grow them yourself, consider getting acrylics. There are many different types of acrylic nails that you can choose from, all of which are fashionable, durable, and can tie your look together. 

Which nail shapes are your favorites? Did we forget any can’t-miss manicure styles? Let us know in a comment down below!

If you enjoyed reading this article, remember to check out some of our other posts for more beauty-related guides and tips.