Next time you head for a manicure, consider trying almond nails. While there’s a lot of pressure placed on choosing a polish color, selecting a nail shape is just as, if not more, important when it comes to setting the vibe of your mani. Round is classic, square is statement-making, and stiletto is daring. Almond-shaped nails, with the oval silhouette of their namesake, have the best of all three. They’re stylish and modern, and have a touch of edge thanks to their slightly pointed tip.
“Almond shapes are very flattering and chic and work best with longer nails,” says nail artist and Sally Hansen ambassador Hannah Lee. If your nails are naturally short, achieving almond perfection may require the help of acrylics or extensions, but it’s worth it, judging by the 27 almond nail ideas, below.
All products featured on Glamour are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.
-
Classic French Manicure
An almond shape and a French manicure are a match made in heaven. The shape looks more modern than a square tip, planting the style in 2021, not 2007. Plus, it makes nails look so long and elegant.
Colorful French
If a classic French mani feels a little too, well, classic, switch things up with brightly colored tips. A mix of fun colors on each finger makes it even more fun.
-
Psychedelic Swiggles
Since you have so much space to play with, almond-shaped nails make the perfect base for swirling designs like this one. Try Nailtopia polish in Green Goddess and Birds of Paradise for a similar look.
-
Negative Space Mani
Sometimes less really is more, like this cool negative-space moment. The bright shades (try Sally Hansen in Yaaasss Green and Sugar Fix) makes it really pop.
-
Gold Accents
Cool gold details make a classic almond shape feel a little fresher. Etsy has tons of options for gold nail decals, or grab a premade set of press-ons from Color Camp for the exact look above.
-
.jpg)
Starburst Nails
So cute and nostalgic. While the stars are of course the main event of this mani, the shimmering tips are a perfect complement to an almond-shaped nail.
-
Neon Green
An almond shape can make even the brightest of neons look ladylike. For the same shade as above, try Olive & June’s brand-new Lime Fizz.
-
.jpg)
Pink Ombré
Almond nails’ elongated shape makes them the perfect base for a pretty ombré. To get the look, add both colors to a disposable makeup sponge, then use it to stamp the gradient onto your nails.
.jpg)
.jpg)
Graphic Shapes
From the negative space to contrasting colors, there’s a lot to love about this mani. The thin band of red emphasizes the almond shape and makes the lilac really pop.
Checkered Nails
Checkered nails were spring’s coolest trend, and the graphic art isn’t going anywhere. Swirls of the pattern emphasize almond nails’ pretty shape.
