When you want to get a manicure, one of the first things on your to-do list is coming up with a shape that looks great on you. There are many different nail shapes. But the correct nail shape is the one that acts as a perfect base for your manicure. Speaking of nail shapes, one of the big discussions is oval vs almond nails. Which one is better? Which one looks more fashionable?
Both almond and oval nails are famous for flattering your fingers. They are great when you want to spice up your look.
Today, we will talk about what is the key difference between oval vs almond nails. At first glance, these two might look similar. But there are subtle, yet distinctive differences between them.
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Difference Between Oval Nails And Almond Nails
General Shape
When we talk about the differences between these two, we have to start with the general shape. In that spirit, oval nails feature slightly tapered sides ending in a soft semicircle. They offer a natural shape and are one of the strongest shapes. This makes them less prone to breaking.
Almond nails are basically a version of oval nails. The difference is they keep a broad base and then taper the sides ending in a rounded point like an almond.
Shape Of Your Nail Bed
Let’s talk about another difference. Oval nails are more versatile. They suit every type of nail bed, be it narrow or wide. Almond nails, on the other hand, fit a wider nail bed. This draws attention to the narrowing tip.
Fingers And Their Shape
Now let’s talk about your fingers. Oval nails look great on short fingers. They replicate the shape of your fingers and make them look longer. In this case, almond nails are more versatile, looking ideal on both short and long fingers.
Length Of Your Nails
As we said before, in most cases, oval nails are more versatile. They are ideal when you work with natural nails. You can add them to long and short nails. There is no need to get long nails to flaunt the shape. The only thing you have to pay attention to is the length of your nails should be longer than your fingertips.
Almond-shaped nails, on the other hand, offer an elongated shape. They are best suited for medium and long nails where they give you an illusion of extra length.
Appearance
What do you want to achieve with your nails? If you want to make your fingers look slender and longer, opt for oval nails. The shape will look great on longer lengths adding an elegant appearance.
Almond nails can slenderize thicker fingers and wider nail beds. The flattening shape gives a beautiful and tapered look to your hands. And they look great if you want to add extra length.
Maintenance
A key factor in deciding oval vs almond nails is maintenance. Let’s be honest, we do not always have the time to make our nails. The good thing about oval nails is they require only minimum maintenance.
Almond nails, however, require maintenance every two to three weeks if you have acrylic nails.
Downsides
Now let’s talk about the drawback and downsides of each nail shape. Oval nails have a weaker structure as the sides are slightly filed away.
Almond nails can make your natural nails weaker and more prone to breakage. Natural nails cannot hold the almond shape and look for a while. So they have to be reinforced with acrylic nails or gel nails.
Lifestyle
At the end of the day, we all want nails that will fit our lifestyle. If that is the case, oval-shaped nails are much better. They will not disrupt your lifestyle. You can definitely finish your day-to-day activities easily and comfortably.
With almond nails, you might have trouble doing housework or playing sports. They require longer nails which might make it a challenge.
How To Shape Your Nails At Home
In most cases, it is best that you visit a salon when your nails need some love. But it is always possible to shape them at home.
All you need is some experience with a nail file, and you are good to go. You can create any nail shape you want.
Each nail shape requires a bit of concentration, patience, and know-how to achieve.
Speaking of oval nails, they offer a super flattering look. You have to have a bit of length to work with. Start from the outside in, and use your file to shape the tip of the nail into an oval shape. You should aim for a rounded but flat look and blunt tip.
Almond nails are a classic. This is the shape you need if you want to extend the look of your nails. Starting from the outside and working your way in, use your nail file to shape each nail towards the center to create a soft tip. Prepare your nails with a base coat and a color.
Finding The Right Shape For You
When you want to find the best nail shape that works for you, there are some things to pay attention to. Here are some tips:
- Get familiar with the different nail shapes, which include square nails, round nails, oval nails, coffin nails, ballerina nails, and almond nails
- Take your finger shape into consideration, as well as factors such as nail length, nail bed width, and more
- For short nails, go for square or round shapes
- For medium and long nails, oval, almond, and coffin nails work the best
- Use elongating nail shapes to lengthen and slenderize your short and wide fingers
- If you have naturally long and slim fingers, opt for a square nail shape that will give you a flattering effect
Besides the almond and oval shapes we talked about before, there are some other shapes you can look at.
For example, round nails create the appearance of longer fingers but keep your nails short. They feature a short length with a naturally curved edge. Basically, perfect for subtle elongation of your short and wide fingers. You can use this shape to make your wide nail bed appear thinner and longer.
Square-shaped nails have straight edges and a squared-off tip. They look neat and stylish. They are great for ladies who want longer nails that taper more. It gives you a short and edgy look to your nails. Flattering for ladies with thin hands and long, slim fingers.
Coffin or ballerina nails are designed for those who love long nails with narrow nail beds. The nail style is named after its silhouette, which resembles a coffin and ballet slipper. They are long and narrow and they dramatically taper in towards the end before finishing with a square tip. You should use this nail shape only if you have long and sturdy nails.
