Beauty is all about experimenting. No matter what kind of look you're going for, there's no denying the rush of finding all sorts of fun and flirty things to try with your hair, makeup, or nails. For nails specifically, researching different nail styles can be pretty daunting, especially when you've got your eye on something semi-permanent (two weeks is longer than some relationships, afterall!).

With so many women opting for that little something extra in professional nail care, it's easy to wonder if your nails will look just as good as what you see on social media or TV. Not only that, but what if you don't really know your ideal "nail shape"? What if all those different options genuinely make your head spin?

In this blog, we'll tackle all your toughest questions about nail lengths and nail sizing, with some helpful tips so you can choose the best press-on nail shape for you. Let's get started!

Why is Nail Shape Important?

Think about it - when you put money aside for that perfect manicure, you probably have a good idea of the kind of look you're going for. You've settled on a color, likely matched it in your mind to some killer outfits, and there's a good chance you've picked something super fun and season-appropriate.

These are no easy decisions, especially when there are so many cute, complementary styles to choose from! That being said, certain nail shapes can affect the overall look of your manicure. In fact, your ideal nail shape will largely depend on the length and shape of your fingers. Certain nail shapes will make your fingers look longer, while others will make them appear wider or more natural.

By knowing these shapes upfront, you can nix any confusion you might have at your next nail appointment (whether you do your own nails or have someone do them for you!). Better yet, you can walk out of the house or salon feeling more confident in your new look!

Why is Nail Length Important?

Like nail shape, nail length is important to consider when browsing a cute collection of press-on nails. In fact, your lifestyle plays a significant role in what nail length might be a better fit for you. For instance, if you're someone who enjoys attending lots of weddings, birthday celebrations, or formal events, then longer nails will suit those occasions perfectly and help elevate those looks.

On the flip side, if you're putting long hours in at the gym, hiking with your besties, or adventuring outdoors on the weekends, then longer nails might just break or get in the way, making shorter nails a better fit to your needs. To add to this, if your job requires lots of typing or you enjoy cooking more often, then longer nails might not be ideal when it's time to write up reports or wash the dishes.

Whatever your lifestyle, it's important to know which nail shapes complement your everyday grind the most. Sure you can experiment, but take a few moments to think about how often you want to switch things up. After all, with so many cute options for long, short, and medium nails, you don't have to settle for just one! 

What are the Different Nail Shapes?

Whether you're a seasoned pro at all things nails or a total newbie, it's never too late to learn about all the different nail shapes and how you can use that info for some seriously great looks! Here's everything you need to know about short nail shapes, long nail shapes, and all the fun options in between!

The Skinny on Short Nails

As one of the easiest nail shapes to maintain and experiment with, short nails are also the most practical for a lot of women. They don't trap dirt as easily, and they won't break off or get tangled in your hair or clothes anytime soon. Here's the skinny on some of the most popular short nail designs worth checking out.

Round Nails

If you're new to the nail game, you can never go wrong with a classic, cute round nail shape. Not only are they easy to wear, but they're comfortable, look natural, and they don't get in the way of trying to use your phone! You can opt for a French manicure, or go for something more artistic and complicated. The sky's the limit!

Best of all, short round nail styles are perfect for pretty much any occasion, whether it's something work-related, school fashion, or a get-together with friends. If your fingers are naturally shorter with wide nail beds, then round nails are an easy choice to make them look longer.

Square Nails

When you're looking for something beautifully simple and versatile, square nails are a clear winner. Not only do they evoke that classic sense of golden-age Hollywood glamor, but there's a subtle drama and minimalism to square nails that you can't help but love.

They make your fingers appear slimmer, and you can easily trim the nails down to your preferred length whenever needed. If you're the type of girl who loves to play around with different nail styles, polish colors, and designs, square nails will feel like your perfect match. They're suitable for just about any setting, be it a corporate meeting, a formal dinner, or a fun night out on the town!

When Medium Nails Make the Most Sense

If you're a girl looking for a good mix of performance and style, then medium nails might make the most sense for you. Not only that, but medium nails tend to add a bit more drama to the mix, as they're not only adventurous but glamorous enough to help you make a statement when it matters most. Here are a few of the more popular medium nail styles worth your consideration.

Squoval Nails

Named after its square + oval shape, a squoval nail shape just so happens to be the way most peoples' nails naturally grow. This makes squoval nails flattering on just about anyone, with an easy-to-maintain reputation that definitely helps when you're not quite sure what you're looking for.

When worn short, the nails appear more natural. Given the softer edges, squoval nails are also perfect if you happen to work with or spend a lot of time around children.

Oval Nails

For those wanting a bit more high glamor, an oval nail shape is an easy choice. Not only does it scream femininity, but you'll adore how elegant your hands look afterward. Oval nails are also great for women who are curious to try longer nail sizes without going over the top, meaning you get the best of both worlds. It's a win-win!

That being said, it's important to remember hygienic factors when experimenting with longer nails. As always, longer nails tend to trap dirt and grit beneath them more easily, meaning you'll want to keep up with daily cleaning and maintenance. The right nail-cleaning accessories make all the difference, so make sure your purse is packed with a cuticle remover, mani and pedi nail clippers, and nail reshaper tools.

Long Live Long Nails

Not only are long nails bold, striking, and impossible to ignore, but they're super trendy right now. While they definitely require more maintenance than short nails or medium nails, the tradeoff is often worth it, especially when you want to make a statement. Here are some of the hottest, sexiest long nail styles worth your time at the moment.

Almond Nails

Worn either medium-length to long, almond nails are another feminine shape that serves to elongate your fingers, making them appear slimmer in the process. This effect is increased the longer the nail is, though it's not quite as pronounced as a stiletto nail or coffin nail.

Like other longer nail types, you may find things like typing difficult if you opt for an almond nail. While you can certainly adapt, it's important to note that they're a sophisticated style that might come with a few lifestyle changes depending on how long you wish to keep them.

Stiletto Nails

Characterized by their sharp, pointed tips, stiletto nails have become super popular with women who wish to make a bold, dramatic statement, mimicking that favorite, strappy pair of stiletto heels. Worn by celebrities and fashion icons all over the world, they're an ideal choice for special events, requiring a certain amount of length to achieve the desired shape.

Like most fun nail styles, stiletto nails can come in a variety of striking colors and patterns. Designers tend to let their imaginations run wild, with glitter, rhinestones, and other exciting ideas taking center stage. As beautiful as they are, however, it should be noted that much like stiletto heels, stiletto nails are very high-maintenance. With such precariously pointy tips, they're meant for women who don't mind the extra, extra care needed to keep them looking their best.

Coffin Nails

With a length that can only be described as dramatic, coffin nails are purely for those who embrace that long, feminine nail look. When painted in nude or neutral tones, they give off the ultimate finger-slimming effect, with celebrities like Rhianna and Khloe Kardashian popularizing the trend all over television, TikTok, and Instagram.

Perfect for special occasions like prom, girls' trips, and other big events, coffin nails are easy to experiment with, especially once you dive into the exciting world of high-quality Nail Dashes!

Ballerina Nails

As a beloved look that's been trending for years now, ballerina nails are known for their triangular shape resembling the tip of a ballerina pointe shoe. This makes them similar to almond nails, often looking best on medium to longer nails.

Not only do they also look great as French tips, but they can easily complement a variety of fun, flirty outfits. Like other long nail styles though, it's important to remember that ballerina nails require a bit of extra maintenance compared to something shorter.

Take a Look at a Nail Length Chart

With so much info to consider about different nail shapes and lengths, you might be wondering if you need to be some sort of beauty expert to figure out what nail styles and shapes would look the best on you. The truth is, you don't need to be a certified nail technician to pick your perfect looks. In fact, a quick glance at a nails length chart can often answer your most pressing questions right away!

Plus, if you've never done anything with your natural nails before, the extra visual will likely help! You'll have tons of handy information about which nails properly suit your unique features, and you can use that info to get a second, more educated opinion at the nail salon. After all, the goal is not only to look your best, but feel your best about the money and time spent! Knowledge is power, and you're killin' it either way!

Pick Your Perfect Press-on Nails at Red Aspen

No matter what nail shapes or styles set your heart aflutter, you can easily find them among the cute and customizable collection of press-on nails by Red Aspen.

From everyday looks to glitzy glamor for girls' night, Red Aspen's Nail Dashes are easy to apply, cruelty-free, and a fraction of the salon cost. Reshape and redefine your favorite new nail looks today with Red Aspen!