A tasteful cross between the striking stiletto and a subtle, natural oval shape, almond nails have been very much in demand in salons this year. The versatile shape is the ideal base for simple all-over polish, stylish nail art, or an experimental holiday look.

What are almond nails?
Tapered and meticulously shaped to follow the lateral edges of the nail groove, almond nails – regularly spotted on stars including Sabrina Carpenter, Halle Bailey and Nicole Kidman – “provide a natural illusion of an elongated nail”, explains luxury manicurist Georgia Barker. Celebrity manicurist Trish Lomax warns that “a stylist mustn’t file too harshly on each side of the free edge” when working on almond nails.

Which designs suit the almond nail shape?
Whilst the shape works well with a range of looks – including al fresco nails and the Hailey Bieber-approved glazed doughnut manicure – “You can’t go wrong with an alternative tip during the summer for an understated pop of colour,” says Lomax, “which I often recommend to clients.”

What length is best for almond nails?

When working with natural nails, a medium length is the ideal starting point. But don’t worry if your nails are on the shorter side. “A professional manicurist will start you off with a square shape until the desired amount of growth is achieved,” says Barker. “As the nail starts to grow over the free edge you can file it into an oval shape and then gradually taper it into an almond.” Patience is your friend here. “If you’re tapering the edges when it’s too short, not only will the nails look unnatural but they can be prone to stress and breakage,” she explains. Any longer than 5mm over the free edge may be too long, creating a long, square nail with an uneven looking tip at the end.”

It’s even more important than usual to keep natural nails hydrated and strong when you’re trying to grow them longer. Lomax is a fan of Manicurist’s Complete Serum, whereas Barker swears by Dior’s Crème Abricot, which conditions the nail plate. The Repair Mode Bond Building Nail Serum by OPI is another game-changer: it injects keratin into the nails and helps to rebuild structure.

Are almond nails flattering?

In short, yes. For a special occasion, almond nails are a stellar choice – especially for fans of a classic French manicure. “When the white tip is applied a neat C curve appears, which looks effortlessly feminine and elegant,” says Barker, who says brides often request this look for their wedding day.

When working with natural nails, a medium length is the ideal starting point. But don’t worry if your nails are on the shorter side. “A professional manicurist will start you off with a square shape until the desired amount of growth is achieved,” says Barker. “As the nail starts to grow over the free edge you can file it into an oval shape and then gradually taper it into an almond.” Patience is your friend here. “If you’re tapering the edges when it’s too short, not only will the nails look unnatural but they can be prone to stress and breakage,” she explains. Any longer than 5mm over the free edge may be too long, creating a long, square nail with an uneven looking tip at the end.”

It’s even more important than usual to keep natural nails hydrated and strong when you’re trying to grow them longer. Lomax is a fan of Manicurist’s Complete Serum, whereas Barker swears by Dior’s Crème Abricot, which conditions the nail plate. The Repair Mode Bond Building Nail Serum by OPI is another game-changer: it injects keratin into the nails and helps to rebuild structure.

Are almond nails flattering?

In short, yes. For a special occasion, almond nails are a stellar choice – especially for fans of a classic French manicure. “When the white tip is applied a neat C curve appears, which looks effortlessly feminine and elegant,” says Barker, who says brides often request this look for their wedding day.