In response to recent COVID-19 concerns, we are writing to assure our clients that we are taking recommended precautions. Please go to "What's New" page and see what we are doing to ensure your safety. Please also read our new appointment policy before your next visit.

Close
×

Would you like to switch to the accessible version of this site?

Go to accessible site Close modal window

Don't need the accessible version of this site?

Hide the accessibility button Close modal window
Accessibility View Close toolbar
Bodhi

718-748-0685

Open mobile navigation
  • Home
  • About Us
    • Stylists
  • Service Menu
  • Contact Us
    • Book an Appointment
  • What's New?
  • Press
  • Home >
  • Articles >
  • Find Your Look >
  • Guide to Nail Shapes

Guide to Nail Shapes

  • Created in Find Your Look
Image of 8 different nail shapes.

A decade or more ago, there were only two common and popular nails shapes: round and square. These days, nail shapes are as varied as the nail embellishments and manicure types created by masterful nail artists. Yes, nail artists, because they push boundaries and set nail art trends.

Here’s a guide to shapes that are sweeping salons across the country:

Round

Considered to be the strongest and most conservative, this shape is great for short nails and/or those that are weak and susceptible to breaking, but is also perfect for long, durable fingernails as well. That said, it works best for a wide nail bed and thicker fingers since it produces the appearance of a thinner nail and slimmer finger.

Square

One of the most common shapes, it has become synonymous with the French manicure. But, it is much more, this traditional shape makes the nails look longer. It is best for those with a large nail bed and long nail, for, in contrast, it tends to make smaller nail beds and nails looker shorter and broader. It is also a sturdier shape since it is leveled and thicker, making it less prone to tears. These are best for active people, be it busy moms or athletes.

Oval

Oval shape is suitable for both wide and narrow nail beds. This shape not only works for a variety of nails and nail beds, it also can make the fingers look longer. However, to achieve this look, you will need thick and wide nails (be they fake or natural). If you are going with natural, however, you need to grow you nail to a standard length.

Squoval (square oval)

Squared nails, though traditional, can come off as harsh and hard. You can soften those edges by rounding the edges of your medium to long nails, either of which can be of any nail bed shape or finger size/shape. You’ll keep the fortitude the square shape provides and, at the same time, provide the softness and elegance of the oval.

Ballerina

This shape is best for long, strong nails since the tapered sides significantly weaken the nail’s natural strength. If you are not one with naturally strong, durable nails, you would require a fake nail treatment such as acrylic to substitute.

Stiletto

If you don’t use your hands much every day, this look is definitely for you. Its pointy shape makes short fingers look longer and thinner, but because the nail itself is narrow, thus creating a weakness factor, it’s best for those who are not very active or who do not use their hands much, as it can make tasks a bit difficult.

Almond

If you want to try out nail art, this shape might be good for you. It is exceptional for nail art, as it provides a broad nail surface, but it best for nails that are thick, long and not prone to breakage. On the plus side, it is suitable for all finger shapes and sizes.

Lipstick

A lipstick shape looks just like you’d think: it has a semi-square shape, but one side is sharply edged and diagonal (on a bend).

Pointed (Arrow Head)

This pointed, arrow head look is reminiscent of the tip of an ink pen. Best for short, stubby finger, this shape elongates and slims.

Of all of the shapes, round and square are best for nails that are sturdy and healthy. If you are on your way to achieving proper nail health with the help of one of our amazing technicians, or if you have “fake nails”, there is no reason to forgo your desires. If there is a look you are going for, you can get there with our nail care artists, no matter the state of your nails—all you have to do is ask. Set up an appointment today.

  • Beards and Facial Hair
  • Find Your Look
  • Hair Care
  • Manscaping
  • Massage and Body Care
  • Skin Care
  • Skin Fixes
  • Style and Service Options
  • Tips and Tricks

Exclusive Offer

New Clients Receive 10% Off First Visit when booking color and cut services together

  • Gallery

    We take great pride in making your look your best. Click here to see some examples of our work.
  • Make an Appointment

    We will do our best to accommodate your busy schedule. Book with us now!
  • Contact Us

    For more information about our services or to book an appointment, contact us today!

Salon Hours

Bodhi Salon Hours

Monday:

Closed

Tuesday:

10:00 am-7:00 pm

Wednesday:

10:00 am-7:00 pm

Thursday:

10:00 am-7:00 pm

Friday:

10:00 am-8:00 pm

Saturday:

10:00 am-5:00 pm

Sunday:

Closed

Visit us today!

We are located in Brooklyn

Reviews From our Satisfied Clients

  • "I'm in love with everything about Bodhi Salon! It's such a welcoming, fun, and relaxing environment."
  • "They did our entire bridal party on the day of our wedding. Both the ladies and the gentlemen had a great time being pampered and everyone looked like a million bucks!"
  • "The stylists at Bodhi Salon are simply the best. I've been a client for 10 years and will never go anywhere else."

Beauty Insights From Our Stylists

Learn how to look your best with these tips!

    The History of Cosmetics

    Cosmetics have been used for at least 6,000 years to cover up blemishes, enhance beauty and as an extension of the personality. Some evidence even suggests that natural pigments may have been used as makeup over 100,000 years ago. Ancient Times to Renaissance In Ancient Egypt people used balms made ...

    Read More

    What to do if You Break a Nail

    If you have nails, no matter how short or long, they have broken. It is an unavoidable reality for us all. So how do you treat a broken nail. We’ll provide you with some valuable tips that will help you deal with a break, but first let’s look at why nails break in the first place. Why Nails Break There ...

    Read More

    Tools of the Nail Trade

    If you’ve sat in a chair at a nail salon for a manicure and pedicure, you will notice your nail technician is armed with a box or tray full of tools. What’s that whatchamacallit, doohickey, doodad, thingamabob, thingamajig? You know what they do—or at least you think you do—but you may be clueless ...

    Read More

    Treating a Scalp Sunburn

    Spending time outdoors, especially if you are active, can be part of a healthy lifestyle. But if you are outside when the sun is out, you need to protect your skin, and that also means the skin on the top of your head. Too much exposure to the sun, without adequate protection may increase your risk ...

    Read More

    How to Properly Wash Your Face

    Most people establish their face washing habits when they’re teens, and then never give it another thought. But maybe it’s time to reexamine this basic beauty ritual. The way you wash your face can make a difference in your skin’s health and appearance. Here are face washing best practices, as ...

    Read More

    Protecting Your Skin in Winter

    If you live in a place that gets cold during the winter, then it’s not just the winter blues that you need to beat. When the temperatures drop, your skin can become dry and cracked. Cold winter air also tends to be drier, which sucks the moisture out of the body. And if the wind picks up, any exposed ...

    Read More

    How to Care for Wet Hair

    Sometimes we want to dry our hair as quickly as possible and get on to the next thing. But after washing your hair, it’s time to exercise patience; wet hair is vulnerable to damage. Here’s how to best care for your hair when it’s wet. Towels Most women have used towels for drying their hair, ...

    Read More

    How to Blow Dry Your Hair

    The process seems simple enough – use a blow dryer to take your hair from wet to dry – but these blow drying tips will keep your hair healthier and looking its best. Preparing your hair A good blow dry starts with a good wash and conditioning. Dry or damaged hair needs all-over conditioning, while ...

    Read More

    Best Brush for Your Hair Type

    Most women give more thought to their shampoo than to that most humble and underestimated styling tool, the hairbrush. But this basic piece of equipment can make a big difference – for good or bad – in the way your hair looks and feels. Let’s examine some of the most common types of hairbrushes ...

    Read More

    Eating For Nail Health

    Our nails can be a direct reflection of our overall health. If you are deficient in certain vitamins and minerals, the result can be brittle, weak, dry, dull or flaky nails. In combination with the nail care treatments you receive from our nail technicians and the tips we’ve provided on growing long, ...

    Read More

Join Our Mailing List

Specials and Deals Delivered to Your Inbox

Follow Us

  • Copyright © 2022 MH Sub I, LLC dba iMatrix.
  • Admin Log In
  • Site Map