Nail Shapes and Finishes Glossary

A straight free edge with sharp corners. It looks clean and strong, and suits shorter, natural nails.

A square shape with softly rounded corners. It is one of the most popular everyday shapes, as the softer corners are less likely to snag.

A shape that follows the curve of your fingertip. It is practical and low maintenance, and suits short nails.

An elongated, softly curved shape that makes fingers look longer and slimmer.

Slim sides that taper to a soft, rounded point, like the shape of an almond. It is elegant and flattering at medium and long lengths.

A long, tapered shape with a flat, squared tip, named after the shape of a coffin or a ballet shoe. It suits longer nails and enhancements.

A dramatic shape that tapers to a sharp point. It usually needs the strength of an enhancement to hold its shape.

A shape with a slanted tip, cut at an angle like a new lipstick.

A natural or pink base with a white tip following the smile line. It is a timeless, clean finish.

A very fine line of colour along the tip, for a delicate, modern take on the French.

Colour that blends softly from one shade to another, often from pink at the base to white at the tip. A soft pink to white blend is sometimes called a baby boomer.

A fine powder rubbed over gel to create a mirror like, metallic shine.

A sheer, pearly chrome over a soft base, for a glossy, iridescent finish.

A soft, semi sheer milky white or pink finish that looks clean and natural.

A translucent, glossy colour that looks like jelly or stained glass.

A magnetic gel polish where a magnet is used to move shimmering particles into a band of light, like a cat's eye. A softer, all over version is often called velvet nails.

A soft burst of colour in the centre of the nail that fades out towards the edges, like a glowing aura.

A flat, non shiny finish created with a matte top coat.

Glitter, foil or dried flowers sealed between layers of gel for a smooth, glossy surface.

A polish free finish created by buffing a conditioning paste into the nail. Read our Japanese Manicure guide.