Any woman always wants to look good. This cannot be achieved with clothes alone; makeup, hairstyle and, of course, manicure are also important.
In this article, we will once and for all understand what nail shapes there are, how to choose the shape and color of varnish that suits you, as well as the main fashion trends of 2022. All this is very important, because style starts from the fingertips.
Nail shapes and their names
Now there are many different nail shapes and their names. But the main ones, from which all the others were formed, are circle, oval, square, triangle (closer to the almond type).
Many girls are faced with the problem that they cannot choose the shape of their nails that they like.
In fact, there is one small life hack that will make you forget about this problem forever:
Important! The shape of the cuticle is the ideal shape of your nails.
Of course, this does not mean that other species are categorically prohibited. It is important to find one that will please your eyes.
Square
The square has 90 degree angles and a clear line at the bottom of the free edge. At first glance it seems that it is easy to do. However, not every master will be able to do it.
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The square shape is always fashionable (some years a little more fashionable, some less so). It can be done only on a short or medium length, because on long ones there is a high risk of breaking. Often it is the edges that break, which looks unsightly.
Soft square
It is also called a rounded square. The soft square is more practical in contrast to the classic one. There are no sharp corners here, but the line at the bottom of the free edge should be straight.
A soft square, like a classic one, also looks good on short or medium lengths; it won’t be very beautiful with long ones.
Oval
A form that has gained immense popularity in 2022, but in a short version. Although an oval can be made for short, medium and long nails.
The oval became the very first shape in manicure, and other types came from it. The oval is suitable for growing, because when the nails become a little longer, you can make “almond”, “ballerina”, etc.
Oval-square
This form is also called "squawal". The essence of the technique is that the lower part of the nail should follow the curve of the cuticle, i.e. be slightly rounded, and the sides of the nail plate are parallel to the central axis.
This manicure is not very popular. However, it is suitable for girls who like a square, but due to the lack of a nail plate, it does not work out for them.
Round
The circle is rarely used, although it gained popularity in 2022, with many bloggers doing short round nails. The round shape is made exclusively for short nails.
A circle differs from an oval in that the tips are more rounded. This shape is made when, due to the width of the nail plate, it is not possible to make an oval.
Acute
The sharp shape makes almost any fingers thinner, longer and more graceful. However, there are exceptions.
A girl should have a fairly long nail bed, otherwise it will look ugly. The nails must also be strong to maintain their length.
In general, with such a manicure, it is recommended to strengthen it with gel or polygel. This is due to the risk that not only the free edge will break, but also part of the nail plate.
If the nail plate breaks, firstly, it hurts, and secondly, it will take about 4 months to recover.
Almond
Almonds were very popular in 2022, but even now many girls make them. And all because almonds emphasize femininity.
The difference from the sharp form is that the almond has a less sharp free edge, the tip is slightly pointed.
To get the perfect almond, the length of the nail bed should be equal to the length of the free edge. You can make the free edge longer, but it is not recommended to make it shorter.
Trapezoidal
The most difficult shape to both create and correct is the trapezoid. The essence of the creation is to expand the free edge so that the nail resembles a trapezoid.
It turns out that the nail bed will look smaller than the free edge. The length of the nails should be medium for the manicure to look good.
Ballerina
Ballerina or pointe shoes are suitable for long nails. It's something between an almond and a soft square.
Ballerina is considered practical, but to prevent nails from breaking, it is necessary to strengthen them with gel or polygel. The ballerina herself looks interesting and unconventional, so it’s better not to choose too complex patterns.
Stylet
To achieve this shape, you will need extensions because the nails are very long. For girls who have household responsibilities, the “stiletto” (“stiletto”) is not suitable, because manicure can quickly deteriorate.
Pipe
Another complex nail shape that not every master can do. It can only be achieved through extensions. The word "pipe" is translated as "tube".
The manicure got its name because the inside of the free edge is curved and looks like a tube. To get such a manicure, the master needs to carefully work with the free edge.
Pike
“Pika” means the longest and brightest nails. The free edge should be several times longer than the nail bed, while the edges of the nail should be as pointed as possible.
The design itself with this form is also very bright. You can make a “peak” only with the help of extensions.
Pomade
“Lipstick” appeared quite recently, a few years ago at most. Suitable for those girls who like to look unusual compared to others.
The free edge should have clear lines. In this case, one edge of the nail is longer than the other, i.e. the shape resembles a stick lipstick.
An effective way to correct with extensions
Covering trapezoidal nails with gel can solve many aesthetic problems. With professional extensions, you can carefully add the missing millimeters of length and make your nails visually thinner.
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In addition, the extension gel does not delaminate and does not break as quickly, unlike your own nail plates. Proper application of gel polish will help you achieve even an almond and pointed shape.
Important! The protruding edges of the nail should be combined with the overall shape of the nail (especially with its base). Otherwise, the result will be the opposite of what was expected.
How to choose the right nail shape?
Not all girls know which nail shape suits them best. You look at pictures on the Internet, you like some form and start asking the master to do the same.
Many masters just do manicures, and they don’t care that this shape just doesn’t suit you. The main thing is that the client likes it. However, during the first meeting, a competent nail technician must:
- will estimate the size of your fingers;
- assess the condition of the nail plate;
- finds out your lifestyle so that the length is comfortable for you.
Well, if you haven’t met such masters, then below we will figure out for ourselves which form is worth making and which is not.
For long fingers
Girls with long fingers suit any nail shape. The only options to avoid are short round and oval shapes. Against the backdrop of long fingers, such a manicure will look unnatural.
A short classic or soft square looks very good on thin, long fingers. It imparts rigor and audacity. Or you can choose long nails (almond, ballerina), this will make your fingers look even longer and more graceful.
For short fingers
To make short fingers look good, they need to be visually elongated. Therefore, the following manicure will suit owners of such fingers.
- round short nails, but then a nude manicure color so that the nails are an extension of the fingers;
- any shape, but the nails should be of medium length or long (it is advisable that the length of the free edge should be no less than the nail bed).
For fat fingers
In the case of thick fingers, it is necessary not to draw attention to them, so you should choose the following manicure:
- round short nails, painted in a nude color so that the nails are an extension of the fingers;
- oval shape on short or medium nails, manicure in nude colors so that the nails again become an extension of the fingers.
It is not recommended to make long claws and a square shape. In the first case, the nails look disproportionate to the fingers. In the second case, they visually become even wider.
Fixing the form with design
A carefully selected manicure design will also help correct the unattractive shape of your nails, giving them natural beauty and attractiveness.
We offer several interesting nail art ideas for fashionistas who have a far from ideal plate shape.
Negative space technique
A manicure made using this technique will not only become a fashionable and stylish addition to any outfit, but will also allow you to visually stretch out an overly wide plate. This will bring round or square nails as close as possible to a proportional oval.
The essence of this design is to cover the plate with colored varnish in the central part of the nail, leaving the edges near the side ridges unpainted. This approach will visually lengthen the nail and give your hands neatness and elegance.
You can visually stretch your nails using the opposite technique. Nail art experts advise covering only the edges of the nail with dark varnish, leaving the middle either unpainted, or painting it with a light varnish.
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Manicure in nude style
Nail art, done in a subdued pastel palette, is extremely popular and is among the most trendy options, regardless of the length and shape of the nails.
At the same time, the nude palette is actively used by stylists to visually correct the nail plate. By making a manicure using translucent and pastel shades, you can give your nails a well-groomed appearance, while they will not stand out too much and draw attention to themselves.
Minimalism and geometry
Simple and discreet geometry is perfect for creating stylish, but at the same time not flashy nail art. If you choose your design wisely, you can visually narrow and lengthen the nail plate. A print in the form of thin vertical stripes of a contrasting color will serve this role perfectly. A design created using shiny gold or silver decorative elements will look no less interesting.
Dark shades
The color of your manicure will also help correct unsightly nail shapes. Thus, dark and rich shades of varnish will visually narrow the plate. To obtain the desired effect, you can use a wide variety of colors - black, deep blue, green, wine. Short nails of any shape, made in this color scheme, will look perfect.
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cat's eye
This trendy design will be a real lifesaver for those fashionistas who cannot boast of an ideal plate shape. A straight line from the edge of the nail to its base, consisting of shiny microparticles collected together with a magnet, will visually lengthen the nail and make it more proportional.
You can also correct the plate using a dark coating with the addition of shimmer. Creating an effect similar to a cat's eye.
Red varnish
Nail art experts claim that red coating can be used on any nail shape. The main thing is to give them the correct shape and carefully apply the varnish.
Blue coating
Just like red, blue polish looks very advantageous on nails of any shape. This color is popular among both craftsmen and fashionistas themselves. Therefore, you should definitely try it in creating fashionable nail art.
French
A classic white or colored stripe can not only give the hands tenderness and grace, but also correct the imperfect shape of the nail. To create the most correct and laconic nail art, you should go to an experienced and trusted nail artist.
Now you know what kind of manicure will help correct the ugly shape of your nails, and photos of successful ideas will help you not to make a mistake in choosing the right nail art.
Author : Nadezhda Chernobay
Editor-in-Chief: Oksana Andrievskaya
Instructions for each nail shape
If you want to give yourself a fashionable manicure or just know all the nuances, then below you will find brief instructions on how to make each shape.
Square shape
To make a square shape, you need to place the file perpendicular to the central axis of the nail, i.e. its middle. In this case, the file should not fall under the nail.
After we have positioned our tool, we begin sawing. The bottom of the free edge should have a clear line.
To make 90 degree angles, you need to turn your finger and start sawing the side walls parallel to the central axis. Again, make sure that the file does not fall over.
Soft square shape
To make a soft square, you need to place the file perpendicular to the central axis of the nail. The file should not fall under the nail.
After we have positioned our manicure tool, we begin to saw the free edge so that it has a clear, even line.
Then we move on to the corners. First we make 90 degree angles. To do this, turn the finger and start sawing the side walls parallel to the central axis.
The file should not fall under the nail. To soften the corners, round the corners with sweeping rocking movements of the nail file.
Round form
All nails must be aligned so that they are the same length. This can be done using a file or nail clippers.
After this, we begin to saw the nails with light circular movements. The free edge should become arc-shaped and visually look like a circle. There shouldn't be any sharp edges anywhere.
Oval shape
The first step is to straighten your nails so that they are the same length. This can be done with the help of a file or nail clippers. After this, we place the file under the nail and file on each side until the middle of the free edge meets the file.
Then you need to smooth out the middle a little, so we file this part with light circular movements. Additionally, we file down all sharp corners and remove them. There should be no sharp corners in an oval shape.
Almond shape
You can make a beautiful almond from a long oval nail (read above for how to make an oval shape). Afterwards, you need to cut off the side part in the direction from the edges to the center.
It is better not to touch the tip; during sawing it will take the desired shape on its own. The inner surface of the nail also needs to be smoothed so that there are no corners. To do this, you need to turn your finger a little to the side.
Acute form
It will take a long time to file your nails to a sharp shape, so you can use the nail clippers from the manicure set and remove the extra corners.
After this, you need to file the sides of the nail from the edge to the center. It is better not to touch the tip of the nail; during filing, it will take the desired shape on its own. To trim the side walls, you need to turn your finger and file the nail, removing sharp corners.
What nail shape is suitable for long fingers?
Thin, thin brushes are already beautiful in themselves. It would seem that no matter what you do, everything will be fine. However, not all so simple. Both a clear and soft square looks great on long, thin fingers. By the way, classic French manicure is done on a square.
Oval and circle can be chosen for thin fingers, but pay attention to the stock: the first option looks harmonious on a narrow plate, the second - on a wide and short one.
“Almond”, “pointe” and with a beveled edge - such nails are good for long, thin fingers, if the free edge does not protrude too much. Of course, this is a matter of taste, but it is important not to overdo it. Overgrown nails stretch the fingers even more. Often, pointed manicures on elongated palms look unsightly, and the brush resembles the paw of a bird of prey. Keep it in moderation.
Moderation is the key word to follow if you strive to be an elegant, sophisticated person. Moderation should be manifested in the choice of design and color of manicure. If you are not sure what is right for you, consult a specialist. His experience can help.
The most fashionable nail shapes in 2022
Back in 2022, a fashion for naturalness . This trend has become even larger in 2022. But this does not mean that you now need to take off your nails and not do a manicure at all.
It is recommended to avoid extended nails, so we say no to the “ballerina”, “stiletto” and “spade” shapes. It is better to have short or medium length nails.
Important! In the description below, by “nail length” we will mean the length of the nail bed, not the length of the nail bed + free edge.
For long nails
The following shapes are suitable for long nails.
Short length:
- classic square;
- soft (rounded) square;
- oval;
Average Length:
- classic square;
- soft (rounded) square;
- oval;
- almond;
Long nails: in 2022, it is better to give up very long nails.
You can also make an oval-square shape if the nail plate is asymmetrical.
For short nails
Those with short nails can choose the following manicure options in 2022.
Short length:
- classic square;
- soft (rounded) square;
Average Length:
- classic square;
- soft (rounded) square;
- oval;
Long marigolds: in this case, you can make almonds. If you want this manicure, you will need extensions. But your nails will need care, because it is difficult for short nails to hold the extended part.
For medium nails
You should not use forms that expand the nail plate. Therefore, the following manicure options are suitable for girls with such nails.
Short length:
- classic square;
- soft (rounded) square;
Average Length:
- classic square;
- soft (rounded) square;
- oval;
- almond;
Long nails: in 2022, it is better to give up very long nails, especially since the average length of nails does not allow this.
For wide nails
Those with wide, trapezoidal nails have a hard time, because the only shape that will look good on their hands is an oval-square one.
However, in this case, a correction . You can change the shape to a more classic one using arched extensions and modeling with gel and acrylic.
Ideas for design and decoration of wide nails
When choosing a design, it is recommended to be guided by the following ideas and tips:
- When using two shades on one nail, the division is carried out only vertically. This lengthens your nails.
- When placing a picture, it is better to do it in the center, so it will distract attention from the wide edges (in this case, experts recommend choosing a neat painting).
- The gradient should be light at the base and dark towards the edge.
- Ombre looks good with the addition of glitter.
- Minimalist prints are still in fashion - they decorate the tips of the nails, leaving the base transparent or plain.
- Geometric patterns and ornaments are trendy (knitted patterns are considered especially fashionable now). When choosing an ornament, circles, diamonds and zigzags are best suited.
- Large triangles and squares only accentuate the wide shape.
Checking the length of your nails
It is important not only to cut one or all nails perfectly, but also to make them the same length. It is not recommended to make them too short, because the shape of most fingers and nails is asymmetrical.
Accordingly, if the nails are cut to the root, then this asymmetry will be noticeable, which does not look very beautiful.
To check the length of your nails, use the following cheat sheet :
- The length of the entire nail and the shape on the second and fourth fingers should be the same.
- The length of the entire nail on the third finger should be 1-2 mm longer than the second or fourth.
- The length of the entire nail on the first finger should be 1-3 mm longer than the third.
- The length of the entire nail on the fifth finger should be 1 mm less than the third.
Important! Don't forget to also compare identical fingers on different hands. The length of the nails should be the same.
Manicure for short nails
As mentioned earlier, today the most popular manicure is for short nails, emphasizing naturalness and style. The free edges of the nail plate are usually 3 mm long, but can be longer. This is not only fashionable, but also very convenient, especially when using a smartphone or laptop. Short nails not only look stylish, but also do not cause unnecessary inconvenience, which is also very important for a business woman.
In addition, nail design also allows you to combine different color options: be bright and original, or discreet and natural. And don’t be afraid that your fingers will seem short - the length of the free edge of the nail plate of 5 mm already visually makes your fingers longer.
Thus, if you have always preferred a practical and neat manicure for short nails, then this season you have hit the nail on the head. Naturalness and well-groomedness are the main way to look stylish and fashionable in 2022.
How to choose a polish color depending on the shape of your nails?
Another problem that arises when choosing a manicure is the design and color of the nails.
Again, a good master will definitely advise you on a color in accordance with your preferences, lifestyle, appearance characteristics, style and the desired impression you want to make on other people. But often the masters do not advise anything and blindly follow the client’s wishes.
In 2022, the fashion is for naturalness, so it is better to choose nude or at least monochromatic colors, abandon designs or use them in a minimalist style.
But we will still consider all the options, because if you like eye-catching designs, then feel free to use them.
Short, square
You can use any color, because anything will look good on this form: dark, light, glossy and matte colors.
Short, oval
To emphasize the oval shape, it is recommended to use bright and rich shades: black, dark blue, brown, red, as well as all neon colors.
You shouldn’t do a manicure to match your skin color, because then the most fashionable nail shape of 2022, flowing into 2022 - a short oval - will not be noticeable.
Long, narrow
This is the most feminine shape, so nude or red colors will look good on these nails.
Subtle colors, such as light yellow, light blue, etc., will not look attractive. The same goes for dark colors, your nails will look like claws.
Long, wide
We use dark varnish colors; black, dark brown, dark blue, burgundy, and plum colors will look especially good.
We avoid light and pearlescent varnishes because they visually widen the fingers.
Short, widening from base to edge
It is better not to use dark and bright colors because they will indicate the trapezoidal shape of the nail. You can use nude or pearlescent varnishes.
Another option is to focus on the central part and leave the outer corners unpainted.
Suitable color palette for trapezoidal nails
In many cases, the shade of the nail plate plays a decisive role. One option can make your nails look beautiful and graceful, while the other can make your nails look rougher and thicker.
On trapezoidal nails, dark shades will look ideal - black, purple, blue, burgundy or dark green.
You can apply unobtrusive decor - metal foil or small rhinestones. Special effects are also suitable - ombre, matte or marble coating, as well as “cat’s eye”.
Which nails should you definitely not do in 2022?
The trend towards naturalness has replaced bright colors and designs, so in 2022 we say “bye” to the following trends of past years:
- claws too long;
- extensions (this does not include additional extensions, when one or more nails have broken off and need to be reshaped);
- multi-colored bright manicure;
- a large number of sparkles and rhinestones;
- large sparkles and rhinestones;
- stencil designs;
- gradient, cat's eye, etc.;
- moon manicure;
- French manicure with dark edges;
- matte finish;
- design overloaded with drawings and rhinestones.
You can look good at any age. The main thing is to always take care of yourself. Start with simple things like a manicure.
Firstly, it will lift your mood and self-esteem, and, secondly, it will attract the views of others. After all, a good quality manicure is always noticeable.
Fashionable manicure for extended nails
For nail extensions, materials such as acrylic and gel are mainly used. With their help, nails take on a natural look, and a strong nail plate allows you to give it the most unusual shape. Long nails also lengthen your fingers, giving your hands a graceful and well-groomed look.
Extended nails are the most popular among those who tirelessly follow fashion. This season, the pursuit of naturalness has determined the most popular shape of nails extended using acrylic or gel, namely rectangular nails.
And we note that it is recommended to select nail design in accordance with your image and preferences. Don't experiment too much with colors. Remember, a neat and discreet manicure is more in line with the fashion trends of 2022 than a bright and provocative one.
Ugly shape of toenails - how to fix: recommendations
The correct sequence of pedicure allows you to prevent deformation of the nail plate and correct an unsightly shape. If you have ugly toenails, be sure to read the information below.
Effective recommendations for beautifully shaped toenails:
- once a week . This will help avoid ingrown nails and splitting, especially during the season of wearing closed shoes.
- Every 3-4 days, adjust the shape of the nail with a nail file. It is better to move the tool in one direction. Square and rectangular nail shapes should not have sharp corners; stick to smooth shapes. Nails are filed before water procedures.
- To keep your cuticles looking neat, oil them daily. Cutting the cuticles on your toes is highly undesirable.
- Polishing the nail smoothes the surface and eliminates lifeless cells. Rough areas of skin around the nail are removed using peeling.
- To remove dirt from under your nails and skin folds, use a soapy toothbrush or other handy tool every day. Water procedures are followed by hydration.
Nail care
How to paint ugly nails with varnish: tips
Applying varnish to the nail plate should transform the appearance of the nail, and not highlight imperfections. Painting nails has a certain sequence.
Let's look at how to paint ugly toenails step by step:
- Using a pedicure tool, push back the cuticle, it should not come into contact with the varnish.
- Apply a protective clear or pink coat to your nail.
- Apply the color coating in 2 stages , maintaining intervals for drying each layer.
- The last layer is applied with a transparent sealer . It will maintain the integrity of the applied varnish and add shine.
- Traces of polish outside the nail plate are wiped off with an ear stick moistened with nail polish remover.
- speed up the drying of the varnish by using a bath of cool water.
Application according to all rules
The color of nail polish should not be flashy; give preference to an elegant and feminine pedicure. Glitter polishes stay on your nails much longer than matte ones. When making your own designs, use stencils and stickers.
Nail care at home and salon
What to do at home when caring for your nails:
- Protect your hands in cold and windy weather;
- Wear gloves when washing dishes;
- Take care of your hands daily;
- Eat rationally and properly;
- Use a properly selected nail file. Less rough files do not injure the nail as much.
- When caring for your nails, you can use baths with vitamins, salts, and oils.
- Every day you need to care for the cuticle, moisturize it and massage it. It is better to do a manicure without trimming, as it is more harmless to the nail plate.
- In order to nourish your nails with vitamins, you can sometimes rub them with wax.
- Before applying colored polish, you need to protect the nail plate with a base coat.
Important! After each water procedure, you need to lubricate your hands with cream.
What procedures are performed in the salon:
- Exfoliation is a deep peeling using scrubs and massage, leading to the removal and exfoliation of the top rough layer of skin.
- Hands and fingers are massaged in a classic and targeted way.
- They do spa treatments. Lubricate your hands with cream, put on cellophane gloves and insulate them with special mittens. Hands and nails are moisturized, nourished with nutrients, softened, and the skin is restored.
- Long-term or short-term masks are used to protect the plates.
- Apply warm paraffin to your hands. It strengthens and improves the condition of nails. The procedure is carried out once a month.
- To combat brittleness and fragility of nails, plates are sealed.
- Trimming procedures are carried out to remove the cuticle. If the situation is not advanced, then the skin is softened with special removers, then the cuticle is removed.
- Painting and applying designs and decorations to nails.
- Increasing the length of the nail plate using gel or tips.
