NAIL ART TAMPA

 Seconds after you sit down in the nail salon, you've historically been forced to make a binary decision: square or round? But it's not that simple anymore. These days, nail shapes are more varied than ever, thanks to influencers and celebrities alike sporting a variety of far-from-traditional silhouettes. It's not just about picking the perfect nail color or showing off a funky design anymore — nail shapes are the new it-factor when it comes to nailing a manicure (no pun intended).

 Trying out different nail shapes definitely keeps things fun, and it's a great way to express ourselves, Lilly Rojas, founder of Brooklyn's Lili and Cata nail salon, explains. "Just like experimenting with colors you normally wouldn't wear feels brave, finding your perfect nail shape can provide a sense of self confidence and empowerment."

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 With that being said, you also want to find the shape that works best for you. According to Anastasia Totty, a LeChat nail educator and owner of Artistique Salon in Jacksonville, Florida, there are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a nail shape: your personal style, your personal preference, and your occupation. "It has to enhance your look, make you feel beautiful, and fit your idea of what looks good. Trends come and go, but finding your unique style is extremely important," she says.

 If you want a quick tip to discovering your most natural-looking nail shape, manicurist Deborah Lippmann says it's all about following the cuticles. "The best way to find the best shape for you is do a proper cuticle pushing, and then mirror the shape of the tip of your nails to the shape of your cuticles," she explains. "That gives you the most natural elongated nail and is how you find your best personal nail shape."

 We're at the point now where the world has more nail shape varieties than we have fingers, so it can be tough to keep track of all the options, let alone choose one. That's why we've broken down 11 of the most popular options so you can make an informed, thoughtful decision next time you sit down at the salon.

 Plus, it could be fun to play around with some different options. "I would suggest trying out a new nail shape every few months because you never know, it might become your new favorite shape," Rojas says.

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 The square nail shape is pretty self-explanatory. Square nails are square — they're flat on top with straight, sharp corners. They neither flare out nor taper in and are a popular shape for those with short nails or long, narrow nail beds.

 Square nails are typically seen as stylish and clean but also low-maintenance, founder of nail-care brand Ciaté London, Charlotte Knight, explains. "This shape looks amazing with a bold, block color."

 A clear manicure with green pink and white stripes.

 The classic round shape is another favorite for those who prefer to keep their nails clipped short. "If you feel you have shorter fingers, you may be more likely to go for a round nail as it can elongate fingers," Knight says. Like square nails, round nails start with straight sides but curve at the edges to follow the natural shape of the fingertip.

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 If you want to go bold with color but aren't sure about the shape, Knight says there's no going wrong with a round nail shape. "They truly look brilliant with any shade of polish you’re in the mood for," she says.

 Courtesy Instagram user @katerina_nikolinakou

 Square oval — or squoval — nails are perfect if you're into the flat edge of the square but hate sharp corners. Knight notes that this classic, universally beloved shape seriously suits everyone. However, it can be especially appealing for those with wider, longer nail beds as it will help balance out everything.

 Yes, round nails are different from oval ones. Here's how: Oval nails are filed down on the sides in addition to the tips. The curvature is more extreme, so it tends to make fingers look a little longer.

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 Known to be a classic choice, an oval shape will also elongate the nail to give the illusion of length, says Knight. She also points out that an oval nail shape is especially great if you want to do a bit of nail art.

 Courtesy Instagram user @lanea_nailart

 Looking for a super glamorous nail shape? Then the almond nail shape is for you. Like oval nails, almond nails are filed along the sides. The nail wall is tapered to end in a round peak, similar to the shape of an actual almond. Natural nails are often too weak to hold this structure on their own, so most almond manicures are reinforced with gel or acyclic.

 Courtesy Instagram user @afewtoomani

 Stiletto Nails

 Possibly one of the most striking nail shapes you can opt for, stiletto nails are all about the drama. Shaping this spiked look starts off the same as its nuttier counterpart, the almond, but ends at a much sharper point with a wider base. Knight notes that this shape is quite high-maintenance, "but it can showcase creativity with color, art, and texture."

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