Here's What You Should Know Before Choosing An Almond Nail Shape

Almond nails are one of the most flattering, delicate nail shapes, as they elongate the fingers to impossible lengths while being super-femme. Featuring slim, tapered sides that end in a rounded tip (via The Trend Spotter), this nail shape is similar to the claw-like stiletto shapes seen on Kylie Jenner, just much softer. While the possibilities are endless when it comes to colors and designs, there are a few things you should know before asking for an almond shape from your technician, as different nail shapes look better on a variety of finger lengths. 

If you decide to go for an elegant almond shape, you should know you're in seriously chic company — celebrity manicurist Deborah Lippmann told Harper's Bazaar that almonds are "the chicest nail shape in the fashion world" and are "sexy, slenderizing, and strong." While your almond nails are destined to look incredible, many nail experts recommend going for colors to complement this graceful nail shape. While Lippmann recommends pairing this shape with a nude shade, manicurist Fariha Ali told Coveteur that almonds look great in "light pinks, creams, pale yellows, and white" as well as "trendy grey-tone colors" like sage, lavender and periwinkle.

Apart from perfect color choices, you should know that almonds need a substantial amount of nail length. As explained by Groupon, almond nails "require some length" which can either be achieved by growing out your own nails or trying acrylic tips.

If you're determined to file your nails into an almond shape yourself, manicurist Fariha Ali told Coveteur that "most people need to start out with squares when their nails are short" and then file to oval and almond shapes. Seems easier said than done? More recommends marking a spot in the center of your nail tip and filing towards it. If you're game enough, Dear Sundays recommends using a nail clipper on the sides to reduce filing time. Taper both sides but leave a flat tip to round out, smoothing to create a perfect almond.

As per More, almond shapes are known to elongate fingers, and Groupon states almonds "slenderize" thicker fingers and wide nail beds. While many experts maintain that a certain amount of length is needed to make an almond shape work, you can also try a less dramatic style on shorter nails. If you're worried about maintenance, don't fret — Ali explained to Coveteur that "it's much easier to maintain longer natural nails" with almonds "since the sides are less prone to impact and wear and tear." 

While you won't have sharp tips that can snag on sweaters, not everything with almond nails is smooth sailing. As per Groupon, having an almond nail shape means waving goodbye to swiftly unbuttoning clothes, easily picking stuff up, or even opening a can. That being said, if you're still up for the universally flattering almond style, you'll have one of the most sophisticated shapes out there.