Almond nails sound pretty self-explanatory, right? As the name so obviously suggests, these nails are inspired by the slightly pointed shape of an almond. They're similar to oval nails, except they're not quite as rounded, and they typically create the illusion of longer hands.
“This shape elongates and slenderizes the hand," says celebrity nail artist Elle Gerstein. "It also works for people who are active because it helps avoid chipping the corners."
Whether you're planning on requesting almond nails during your next trip to the nail salon or you're trying to mimic the style on your own, creating the perfect almond shape is a lot easier than you might think. "File inward at the free edge and taper the nail to create a pointed look bringing the file in from each side wall of the nail," says LeChat Nails educator Syreeta Aaron. "As the nail becomes slimmer to a point, you round the tip just a smidge to replicate an almond."
Gerstein notes that if you're trying to create the shape at home, the key is to not spend too much time filing away at the sides of the nail, as "this causes them to break.”
"You file from underneath and need longer nails to make the shape appear," she says.
Almond nails are a great option if you're someone who often does a lot with your hands. "I typically give clients the almond shape when they type a lot, do a lot of paperwork, are very active, or just want a little length to their nails," says Aaron. "Overall, I honestly think almond nails are the best shape for those that want a little length because they are so versatile when it comes to being active."
If you're looking for some design inspiration, the good news is that Aaron suggests pretty much any design looks good on almond nails, while Gerstein adds that because of the nail shape, modern designs—especially deep French manicures—might be best.
Convinced yet? Read ahead to check out some Instagram-worthy designs for almond nails that totally are worth adding to your mood board.
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Dotted Almond Nails
Because just a simple dot—or two, or three—can be chic sometimes too.
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Green Swirl Almond Nails
Why pick one color when you can choose a whole color family?
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Gold Foil Almond Nails
Gold foils are an amazing addition when you want to keep your manicure simple while still adding a hint of luxury.
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All-Black Almond Nails
When all else fails, go all-black!
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Double French Almond Nails
An updated take on the classic French manicure, this trend features two lines painted across the tip of your nail.
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"French Moon" Almond Nails
For when you want to give your French manicure a much darker—and sexier—twist.
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Curved French Almond Nails
This design puts an asymmetrical twist on the French manicure with crescent-like shapes painted along the tips of the nail.
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Floral Almond Nails
Despite what Miranda Priestly might say, florals for spring are actually kind of iconic.
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Milky Almond Nails
When you want to keep things simple while giving the illusion of color, you can add pink acrylic to give your nails a milky look.
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Pastel Almond Nails
A fun, bright color combination is never a bad idea.
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Short Almond Nails
Even though this trend is about elongating the fingers, you don't have to have long nails to rock them.
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Bejeweled French Almond Nails
A French manicure can always be taken up a notch with bright colors, designs, or in this case, rhinestones.
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Geometric French Almond Nails
Leave some negative space in your French tips to make them look a little less plain.
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Nude Ombré Almond Nails
Nude nails don't have to be boring—just look at the evidence!
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Abstract Almond Nails
French tips! Half moons! Crescents! They all look great on their own but who knew they'd look even better when you combine them in one abstract manicure?
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Color-Blocked Almond Nails
When you can't decide on just one color, this is one of the more creative ways to just combine them all.
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Animal Print Almond Nails
Embrace your wilder side by mixing a handful of different animal prints.
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V-Tip Almond Nails
They're like French tips with more of a seductive twist.
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Stocking Almond Nails
Who knew nails inspired by tights could look so good?!
Sabrina Talbert
Sabrina is an editorial assistant for Women’s Health. When she’s not writing, you can find her running, training in mixed martial arts, or reading.
