Jul 18, 2024

What’s the Difference Between Oval and Almond Nail Shapes?

Choosing the right nail shape is an art and a science. Lately, two styles—oval and almond—have been rising to the top. Their popularity is easy to understand: Both are timeless, feminine, and graceful, and they can accommodate nail art if that’s your thing.

Today, we’re comparing oval and almond nail shapes. By zooming in on their unique characteristics and benefits, you'll be able to choose which one works best with your wants and needs.

What Are Oval Nail Shapes?

Oval nail shapes have smooth, rounded edges that taper slightly towards the tip, creating an attractive, elongated appearance. Those with long, short, and wide nails tend to find this style appealing because it imparts a slender silhouette. Oval nails are versatile and easy to wear, as excellent for every day as for special occasions. Those softly rounded edges help lessen the odds of snagging or breaking, too.

What Are Almond Nail Shapes?

Almond nail shapes feature tapered sides and rounded yet pointed tips, resembling the shape of the nut. This sophisticated shape is ideal for those with longer nails and makes a great canvas for intricate nail art designs. While they may require more maintenance to keep their shape and prevent breakage, almond nails are beloved for how they elongate the fingers and create a dramatic look that plays well with contemporary fashion.

What's The Difference Between Oval Nail Shapes vs Almonds?

Shape and Appearance

Oval Nails: Have smooth, softly rounded edges that taper slightly towards the tip, creating a chic, elongated look.
Almond Nails: Feature tapered sides with a rounded yet pointed tip, resembling the shape of the nut for a dramatic, polished appearance.

Suitability for Nail Lengths

Oval Nails: Suitable for both short and long nails, making them very versatile.
Almond Nails: Best for longer nails, as the shape accommodates nail art.

Durability and Maintenance

Oval Nails: Generally more durable due to their rounded edges, which are less prone to snagging or breaking.
Almond Nails: May require more maintenance to maintain their shape and prevent breakage, especially at the pointed tips.

Aesthetic and Style

Oval Nails: Offer a classic and timeless look that complements a wide range of styles, from casual to formal.
Almond Nails: Provide a polished, dramatic appearance, ideal for those looking to make a bold fashion statement.

Best Hand Shapes

Oval Nails: Flattering for shorter or wider nail beds, as they give the impression of longer, more slender fingers.
Almond Nails: Enhance the elegance of hands and longer fingers, adding a touch of sophistication and femininity.

Who Is The Oval Shape Nail Best For?

The oval shape is a versatile, universally flattering nail style particularly suited to those with shorter or wider nail beds and those who want an attractive look that transitions easily from day to night. Oval nails’ durability makes them a practical pick for anyone who leads an active life or likes a low-maintenance yet stylish option.

Who Should Wear Almond Shaped Nails?

The almond shape is best for a sophisticated, feminine look on long nails. Those who want to play up the length of their fingers will like almond-shaped nails, since the pointed tips and tapered sides visually elongate. Fashion fans who appreciate experimenting with complex nail art will find almond nails make a great canvas. If you appreciate a highly manicured appearance and are fine with the upkeep required, try almond nails.

Is It Easier To Do a Manicure On an Oval Nail Shape or Almond?

It’s generally easier to do your standard manicure on an oval nail shape compared to an almond shape. The smooth, rounded edges of oval nails are less complicated and quicker to file and shape. Oval nails are also more forgiving when it comes to minor imperfections, as their softer edges reduce the risk of breakage. To achieve their tapered sides and pointed tips, almond nails require precise shaping and regular upkeep, which is more time- and labor-intensive. So if you want a simple, more manageable manicure routine, oval nails are the more practical choice.

What Nail Polish Colors Are Best For Oval and Almond Nails?

Nude Shades: Understated nude shades enhance the natural curves of oval and almond nails.
Pastel Colors: Lovely for spring and summer, soft pastel hues like lavender, mint, and baby blue lend a little whimsy to almond and oval alike.
Bold Reds: Red shades are an eternally glam choice that complements both oval and almond nails. Go red for formal events or a night out.
Metallics: Silver, gold, and rose gold metallic polishes give oval and almond nails modern flash. Day or night, these high-shine tones beautifully catch the light.
Dark Hues: Deep colors like navy, burgundy, and emerald look stunning on oval or almond nails. These jewel tones fit right in during fall and winter.
Glitter and Shimmer: Who doesn’t love a bit of sparkle? Glitter and shimmer polishes are excellent choices for oval and almond nails, adding fun at events and celebrations.
Bright and Neon Colors: Eye-catching shades like hot pink, electric blue, and neon green exist to get noticed. These colors are especially striking on almond nails, underscoring their special shape.
French Manicure: A go-anywhere French manicure plays up the quiet beauty of oval and almond nails.

Oval Nail Shape vs Almond: Which Is Better?

It’s your call whether the oval or almond nail shape is better for you. Trend-proof oval nails work with all hand shapes and nail lengths. They’re also durable and low-maintenance, which makes sense for most of us. On the flip side, almond nails look cool and trendy—perfect for nail art lovers. While they call for more upkeep to maintain their shape, almond nails beautifully elongate the fingers and add a touch of old Hollywood glam to your look.

Other Nail Shapes To Consider

Square Nails: With straight edges and a flat top, square nails are good for those with narrow nail beds. They can also provide a great base for nail art.
Squoval Nails: Merging oval and square, squoval nails have straight edges and rounded corners. Their balanced, natural look makes this shape adaptable and flattering.
Round Nails: With curved edges and rounded tips, round nails are perfect for those who prefer things simple and natural. A cinch to maintain, this shape is ideal for shorter nails.
Stiletto Nails: Known for their severely pointed tips, stiletto nails make an edgy statement. This shape is for the daring, the artistically-inclined, and the highly motivated.
Coffin Nails: Also known as ballerina nails, coffin nails feature tapered sides and a flat, squared-off tip. This trendy shape is for longer nails and requires careful upkeep.

Finding Your Nails’ Best Shape

Choosing between oval and almond nail shapes comes down to personal preference. For elegance and ease, it’s all about the oval. This timeless, versatile, low-maintenance option suits all hand shapes and nail lengths. Almond nails dial it up a notch, lending a fashion-forward look that does justice to nail art and elongates the fingers—though it calls for more upkeep. By getting to know the hallmarks and benefits of each shape (and all your other options, too), your nails can align with your beauty goals.

Londontown has revolutionized nail care by fusing innovation with artistry to take your nails over the top. Our thoughtfully curated range of nail needs has been designed to enhance your manicure experience: You can make your nails a masterpiece with our assortment of nail concealers and stunning spectrum of colors. Welcome to Londontown.

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