Have you ever looked at the shape of your nails and thought to yourself I wish I had a different shape? This is a common question nowadays because we have many nail shapes now.

However, two shapes are prevalent: oval and almond. They’re somewhat like Coke and Pepsi in the nail world, everybody has their preference.

So what’s the deal? Are you team Oval, or are you team Almond? Or perhaps you are scratching your head to understand the meaning or trying to figure out what differentiates both. Well, don’t worry too much. 

In this article, I will explain the differences between the two shapes to choose the best option for your nails.

 

What is the Oval Nail Shape?

First and foremost, let me explain to you the basics, so you would know what we are talking about here.

The oval nail shape is one of the most popular and suitable for any type of hand shape. Why? Because it is considered to be the most natural one.

You can get this shape by filing the sides of the nails flat and then rounding them into an arc. This oval shape of your nails is the closest to the shape of the fingertip and thus they blend with the shape of the finger ends.

The oval shape is quite common, especially among those who want something simple and natural. It also makes the fingers look more elongated and slim. This is quite appealing to most people.

 

Pros of Oval Nail Shape

Here are some things that make me want to recommend this nail shape to you:

•       Strength and durability: Oval nails are the tanks of the nail world. Their shape helps to reduce the pressure and this makes them not break or chip easily.
•       Low maintenance: Ovals are easy to maintain and grow out well. This means you will have more time doing what you love, and less time spent filing.
•       Flattering on most hand shapes: Ovals are the best equalizers. Which makes them fit the most hand shape.

 

Cons

Everything that has advantages, will surely have its disadvantages:

•       Can look outdated: I am sorry to say this, but a lot of people say that oval nails are old-fashioned. They are not always considered to be the most current or fashionable.
•       Less elongating effect: Ovals might not be your cup of tea if you’re aiming for the “my fingers go on for days” kind of nails. They are not as visually long as other shapes.

 

What is the Almond Nail Shape?

Almond-shaped nails have a name thanks to the similar shape of the almond nut. This shape means filing the sides of the nails that curve at the endpoint.

Almond nails are slightly oval at the tip but are somewhat more pointed than oval nails and hence are more fashionable. This leads to a sleek, oval-shaped nail. The rounded end makes them less likely to be chipped off.

Although almond nails are luxurious, they are also suitable for casual use. 

 

Advantages of Almond Nail Shape

The following are some reasons you will like this shape of the nail:

•       Elongates fingers: Almond nails are like a magic wand that makes your hand look beautiful. They give the impression of longer and thinner fingers.
•       Modern and trendy: if you want to be the hot girl in town, then, almond nails are what you need. They are smooth, they are trendy, and they are beautiful to the T!
•       Flattering on most hand shapes: Oddly enough, almonds are friends with most hands, much like their oval-shaped sister. They are particularly good for shorter fingers.

 

Disadvantages

Below are some drawbacks of having an almond nail shape:

•       More prone to breakage: Having great beauty equals great responsibility. Almond nails seem to be a little weak, especially if one is not gentle on their hands.
•       Requires more maintenance: Maintaining such a good almond-like nail shape doesn’t come easy, my friends. You have to be ready for more frequent filing and shaping sessions.
•       Doesn’t suit some lifestyles: If you are like me, a writer who types, at least, thousands of words a day, those fancy almond nails could slow you down big time, or even better, they would make your fingers cramp!

 

Visual Differences Between Oval and Almond Nail Shapes

The major distinction between oval and almond nail shapes is based on the extent of tapering. Oval nails are not as sharp as the almonds, and the only curvature is at the center with none at the sides. This makes them look more natural.

Almond nails, on the other hand, look narrower at the end as the nails become thinner at the tip. This makes them less bulky and more stylish. They often make the fingers appear longer than if they were oval-shaped.

 

In short:

Oval nails = soft, round, and more or less natural looking.

Almond nails = pointed, attractive, and a little longer than rounded nails.

 

Which One Suits You Better?

Here’s the big question! The reality is that there isn’t any definitive answer. This is a matter of choice based on the kind of look you prefer, your daily activities, and frankly, on how much time you are willing to spend on maintaining your nails.

Simply put, if you do not want a complicated life and you enjoy simplicity, then oval will suit you. They are durable and also flexible.

On the other hand, if you are a slay queen, and you are ready to pay that little extra to maintain those nails, then almond nails could be your new best friend. 

They’re fashionable, they’re classy, and they will bring out the beautiful woman that you are.

My advice? Try both! This world is not a place for sticking to one nail shape. Wear those ovals for a month and then juggle it around with some almonds. Of course, you should enjoy your nails.

 

Conclusion

So in a nutshell, when choosing between oval and almond shapes, the most important thing is that you get the best for you. 

Nails are an extension of yourself, so take the shape of nails that will make you feel like a real woman.

Oval and almond nails are both feminine and good-looking but are different in some ways. The former is suitable for those who desire a simple, natural look. However, almond nails are more fashionable and modern, perfect for those fashion queens.

Overall, the two shapes of nails thus remain a matter of preference of your tastes, how active you are, and the shape of your fingers.

I wish all of you the best and hope that this article helps you in choosing the best nail.