Almond nails sound pretty self-explanatory, right? As the name so obviously suggests, these nails are inspired by the slightly pointed shape of an almond. They’re similar to oval nails, except they’re not quite as rounded, and they typically create the illusion of longer hands.
“This shape elongates and slenderizes the hand,” says celebrity nail artist Elle Gerstein. “It also works for people who are active because it helps avoid chipping the corners.”
Whether you’re planning on requesting almond nails during your next trip to the nail salon or you’re trying to mimic the style on your own, creating the perfect almond shape is a lot easier than you might think. “File inward at the free edge and taper the nail to create a pointed look bringing the file in from each side wall of the nail,” says LeChat Nails educator Syreeta Aaron. “As the nail becomes slimmer to a point, you round the tip just a smidge to replicate an almond.”
Gerstein notes that if you’re trying to create the shape at home, the key is to not spend too much time filing away at the sides of the nail, as “this causes them to break.”
“You file from underneath and need longer nails to make the shape appear,” she says.
Almond nails are a great option if you’re someone who often does a lot with your hands. “I typically give clients the almond shape when they type a lot, do a lot of paperwork, are very active, or just want a little length to their nails,” says Aaron. “Overall, I honestly think almond nails are the best shape for those that want a little length because they are so versatile when it comes to being active.”
If you’re looking for some design inspiration, the good news is that Aaron suggests pretty much any design looks good on almond nails, while Gerstein adds that because of the nail shape, modern designs—especially deep French manicures—might be best.
Convinced yet? Read ahead to check out some Instagram-worthy designs for almond nails that totally are worth adding to your mood board.
1French Almond Nails
2Dotted Almond Nails
3Green Swirl Almond Nails
4 Stocking Almond Nails
5 Artsy Almond Nails
6 Dalmatian Almond Nails
7 Checkered Almond Nails
8 Rose Quartz Almond Nails
9 Strawberry Cow Print Almond Nails
10 Pink Swirl Almond Nails
