Are square nails too, well, square? And are oval nails too, well, oval? We often find ourselves in this dilemma, and if you are here, we have a small inkling that you do, too. That said, forget about choosing one of the other causes we present to you, the nail hybrid known as squoval nails!
This is the square and oval combo you had no clue you needed until now. We know, we know. Thank us later, and let’s jump right in!
What are Squoval Nails?
If you couldn’t pick up on it from the strange name, squoval nails combine the best of both worlds – the elegant curves of oval nails and the clean lines of square nails. Perfectly balanced, squoval nails offer the best of both nail shapes, making them a top choice for many people.
We would be doing you a disservice if we didn’t let you in on the pros and cons of squoval nails. That said, we aren’t going to leave you hanging. In the chart below, check out the pros and cons of this awesome nail shape.
Pros of Squoval Nails | Cons of Squoval Nails |
Natural Look: This shape can enhance the natural shape of the nail bed, providing a more natural and classic appearance. | Less Feminine: Some may find that sqoval nails are less feminine compared to more rounded or almond shapes. It may not be the best choice for those looking for a very soft and delicate look. |
Durability: The squared-off tip provides more strength compared to fully rounded shapes like oval or almond, making squoval nails less prone to chipping. | Risk of Breakage: While squoval nails are more durable than fully rounded shapes, they may still be more prone to breakage compared to stronger shapes like square or coffin. |
Low Maintenance: Sqoval nails are generally easier to maintain than some more elaborate shapes. The square base allows for easier filing and shaping. | Not Ideal for Short Nails: Sqoval nails may not be the best choice for very short nails, as the squared-off tip might not be as flattering on shorter nail lengths. |
Square Vs Squoval Nails
Now, you might be wondering, what sets squoval nails apart from their square counterparts? Well, it all comes down to the rounded edges and a few more little things. Find out more in the chart below!
Square Nail Characteristics | Squoval Nail Characteristics |
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Zohna Tip
Squoval nails may be less prone to chipping and snagging than square nails due to their rounded edges. This can be advantageous for those with an active lifestyle or using their hands frequently throughout the day.
Oval Vs Squoval Nails
Are you torn between oval nails’ classic elegance and squoval nails’ practicality? We’re here to hold your hand and help you make an informed decision. First, let’s talk about oval nails. With their graceful curves, oval nails have been popular for a long time. They create an illusion of elongated fingers, making your hands look more slender and delicate. However, there’s a catch. Due to their elongated shape, oval nails are more prone to breakage. So, if you lead an active lifestyle or have weak nails, you may be dealing with frequent nail mishaps.
Squoval nails offer the best of both worlds by maintaining the durability of square nails while incorporating the elegance of ovals. The straight edges of squoval nails make them less likely to break, providing a practical and long-lasting nail shape. Plus, they still offer elegance with their slightly rounded corners. So, if you’re looking for a win-win situation regarding nail shapes, squoval nails are the answer. Say goodbye to constant nail repairs and hello to a nail shape that can keep up with your busy lifestyle.
How to Shape Squoval Nails?
So we’ve talked a lot about this fabulous-sounding nail shape, but you are likely curious how one might get their nails looking like it. Well, here is a guide on how to shape squoval nails if you feel like tackling this at home.
What you’ll need:
- Nail file
- Nail clippers
- Buffer
Step #1
Ensure you have a quality nail file, nail clippers, and a buffer. Having these tools on hand will make the shaping process more efficient.
Step #2
Remove any existing nail polish and clean your nails thoroughly. Trim your nails to your desired length using nail clippers.
Step #3
Use the nail file to shape the sides of your nails straight, creating a square shape. File in one direction to avoid splintering and achieve a clean edge.
Step #4
Continue filing to create a squared-off tip. Aim for a flat and straight line across the top of your nails to establish the square shape.
Step #5
Gently round off the sharp corners of the squared tip. This step adds a touch of softness, creating the squoval shape. Be cautious not to over-round, as you still want to maintain the square base.
Step #6
Take a moment to assess the overall shape. Ensure symmetry and adjust any uneven areas by filing as needed.
Step #7
Use a buffer to smooth the edges and surfaces of your nails. This step helps achieve a polished and even finish.
Step #8
Apply nourishing hand cream or cuticle oil to moisturize your hands and nails.
Short Squoval Nails
If you are on the hunt for a low-maintenance, natural, and flawless manicure that you can turn to time and time again, we’ve found it… aka the short squoval nails. With short squoval nails, you can embrace everyday activities without worrying about chipping or breaking your nails. Plus, they give an air of sophistication while staying practical. Who says you can’t have it all?
Long Squoval Nails
Sometimes, we just feel like having long claws; there’s nothing wrong with that. There’s everything right with it. These long squoval nails are the perfect way to wear a long manicure. They are long, but not too long, and sharp looking but not too sharp looking. Plus, we love the dark coloring.
Squoval French Tip Nails
If you are just head over heels for squoval nails, then you are going to love these squoval French tip nails. Why, you ask? The French tip nail design is a great way to accentuate the squoval shape. It will immediately draw attention to the shape of your claws.
Short Squoval Acrylic Nails
Acrylic nails are good for more than just adding length to your claws. If you want all the other benefits of acrylic nails, these short squoval acrylic nails are perfect!
There are other benefits to acrylic nails, such as:
- Adds the appearance of thicker nails
- Gives time for natural nails to grow underneath without breaking
- You can go for any nail shape
- Adds durability to nails
Squoval Nail Designs
When it comes to squoval nail designs, the options are truly endless. A great way to elevate any squoval manicure is to incorporate some designs.
You could go with a design similar to these blood-splatter nails or something a little less scary, such as:
- Geometric shapes
- Floral accents
- Ombre designs
- Marble designs
- Animal print
Medium Squoval Nails
So you say you don’t want long nails, but you also say you don’t want short. We’re sure you probably think you’ve found yourself in a bit of a pickle, but that’s where you’re wrong. There’s actually something called medium squoval nails. Medium squoval nails strike the perfect balance between short and long. They’re not too high-maintenance and not too understated.
Natural Squoval Nails
Squoval nails are already a pretty natural-looking manicure, but if you want to make it very natural, to the point where admirers won’t be able to tell if your nails are done, these are the claws for you. A sleek nude polish or a couple of coats of clear high-shine varnish can enhance your natural squoval nails.
White Squoval Nails
White squoval nails will do just that if you want nails that catch the eye. With a bold white polish, your squoval nails will be the flawless manicure you’ve been searching for your whole life. If you want to upgrade your white nails, add some chrome pigment or a few designs. Otherwise, sometimes more is less.
Pink Squoval Nails
These unconventional pink squoval nails will certainly have people chattering about your unique claws. The hot pink and silver French tip combo is certainly one to remember. If these pink squoval nails are too out there for you, then you could play around with a pale baby pink shade or some pastel hues.
Squoval Press On Nails
If you have somewhere to be and time is ticking, then we want to introduce you to your new best friends, Press On Nails. Press-on nails are great for people who don’t have the time to sit at the nail salon or do them themselves at home. These nails are convenient, easy to use, and come in various shapes and designs, including our beloved squoval. Simply apply the adhesive and press them onto your natural nails, and you’re good to go!
Red Squoval Nails
Red squoval nails are the way to go when you’re in the mood to make a statement. Radiating confidence and power, this classic color will instantly make you feel sexy and badass at the same time. You could take many different avenues, from a vibrant cherry red or a deeper, sultry shade – any red hue will suit your squoval nails perfectly.
Black Squoval Nails
A little birdy told us that a nail polish shade we saw more often in the early 2010s is making a comeback. Black nail polish has resurfaced, and we’re seeing it more and more. A great way to wear black polish, in our opinion, is to pair it with a squoval manicure. The shape will help tone down the harshness of the black, making your manicure bold but not too in your face.
Squoval Dip Nails
Dip nails are a fantastic, long-lasting, low-maintenance nail solution. This innovative technique combines dip powder’s durability and ease of application with the stylish squoval shape. It entails a liquid adhesive and dipping your nail into this special powder. You can shape the nail and the powder into any nail shape you want, including squoval!
Light Pink Squoval Nails
For a charming look, light pink squoval nails are here to help! With this delicate pastel pink shade, you’ll feel pretty in pink and squoval. Light pink squoval nails are perfect for any occasion, from a casual brunch with friends to a glamorous evening event.
Nude Squoval Nails
If subtlety is your style, nude squoval nails are the way to go. These nails offer a sophisticated look that seamlessly blends with any outfit or occasion. Choose a nude tone that complements your skin color, and watch how your nails effortlessly enhance your natural beauty.
Tapered Squoval Nails
With this variation, the nail’s width gradually narrows toward the tip, creating a sleek appearance. Tapered squoval nails offer a twist on the classic shape that looks similar to the coffin nail shape but just not as drastic. We love this manicure’s red-tip look with the pretty little star and moon nail stickers.
Zohna Tip
We highly suggest looking into nail stickers if you want to quickly elevate your manicure. It's a quick and effective way to add a little something something to your claws.
Blue Squoval Nails
We love a dark blue squoval nail. We believe that the squoval shape and a dark blue shade pair perfectly. The softness of the shape and the delicate appearance of the blue really work wonders together in giving you a perfect manicure everytime. You can add an accent finger with some designs if you want to add a bit more visual interest.
Cute Squoval Nails
When we think of cute nails, we think of bright colors, little designs, and, well, things that make us happy. Try wearing soft pastel shades like baby pink, mint green, or lavender for a sweet and innocent vibe. And don’t forget to add some delicate nail art designs like tiny flowers or stars.
Simple Squoval Nails
Minimalistic and understated nails don’t always mean nude shades. These simple squoval nails are simple, yet much more simultaneously. This style emphasizes clean lines and a sleek finish for a chic appearance. We love choosing a simple dark red to give sexy and sultry vibes. But you can go for other simple shades that aren’t nudes, just saying.
Neutral Squoval Nails
Neutral squoval nails are a universally flattering option for those who like to keep their nails chic and timeless. These elegant shades work well with any skin tone and can easily transition day to night.
If you’re wondering what neutral tone would suit your skin tone best we have you covered:
- Fair or Light Skin Tones: Soft pinks, light beige, sheer nudes, and cool-toned taupes work well.
- Medium or Olive Skin Tones: Warm beige, peachy nudes, caramel, and earthy tones tend to complement medium and olive skin tones.
- Tan or Golden Skin Tones: Rich browns, golden beiges, warm taupes, and terracotta tones are flattering for tan and golden skin.
- Dark or Deep Skin Tones: Deep mochas, chocolate browns, mahogany, and dark burgundies work well with darker skin tones.
There also a few tips you might want to consider when finding the right neutral shade, such as:
- Consider Undertones: Pay attention to the undertones of your skin. If you have warm undertones, opt for warm neutral shades, and if you have cool undertones, lean towards cool-toned neutrals.
- Test Before Committing: Nail polish can look different on the nails than it does in the bottle. Testing a small amount on one nail before applying it to all nails is always a good idea.
- Seasonal Changes: Consider the seasons and your overall style. Lighter neutrals may be preferred in spring and summer, while deeper tones can be embraced in fall and winter.
Zohna Tip
Regularly moisturizing your cuticles and applying a strengthening base coat will help keep your nails strong and prevent breakage.
Fall Squoval Nails
As the leaves change and the weather cools down, it’s time to update your nail game with some fabulous fall squoval nails. Lean into the rich and warm hues of the season to create a stunning autumn-inspired manicure. We particularly like these fall squoval nails because of their funky and holographic appearance. Usually, you’ll see oranges or browns for fall, but this is a fun way to make things look fall-ish but still unique.
Green Squoval Nails
Green and squoval nails = perfection. These green squoval nails are the ultimate outdoor adventure girl nails. If you like to spend time outside hiking or camping, but you also like to look and feel pampered, these nails would suit you and your outdoor adventures perfectly.
Light Blue Squoval Nails
For a dreamy manicure, think light blue squoval nails. This soft, serene light blue shade will transport you to a tranquil oasis (lol, we wish.) But the light blue will make you feel calm, cool, and collected. We love this powder blue shade paired with the squoval, plus you can’t forget about the addition of the cute little flowers.
Squoval Nails Matte
This might come as a surprise, or it might not, but squoval and matte are a perfect combination. The softness of the squoval shape contrasts brilliantly with the matte polish’s modern and slightly harsher appearance. To create a striking matte manicure, you can experiment with bold colors like black, deep purples, or dark red.
Milky White Squoval Nails
The name might be slightly off-putting, but we promise you the color is anything but. These timeless milky white squoval nails will be perfect for any occasion. They suit every kind of party, event, or vacation and will never lead you a stray. If you want to make them extra glossy and shiny, add a thin layer of chrome pigment.
Lilac Squoval Nails
Lilac squoval nails are a lovely manicure that will be perfect for your springtime endeavors. Got an Easter party? Perfect, get lilac squoval nails. Got a picnic? Great, get lilac squoval nails. Got a doctor’s appointment? Just kidding, but we mean you could if you really wanted to. Jokes aside, this manicure is perfect and pretty; what more could you ask for?
Squoval Purple Nails
Purple isn’t always seen in manicures, but we’re here to petition to bring it back and make it more popular because, wow! These squoval purple nails really steal the show. They are bold but not too out there, making them flawless, in our opinion.
Narrow Squoval Nails
If you prefer a more slender and elongated look, narrow squoval nails are a great option. They create the illusion of longer fingers and offer a modern twist to the traditional squoval shape. Since they are a bit longer than most, we say you lean into the over-the-top nature and go for fun and bold color designs because why not?
FAQ
How To File Squoval Nails?
Filing your nails correctly is essential to ensure a clean and professional finish. If you want to know more about how to file your nails into the squoval shape, there is an in-depth tutorial in the first section of this article!
Are Squoval Nails Popular?
In the ever-evolving world of nail trends, squoval nails have undoubtedly made a lasting impact. Often, people will end up getting squoval without even knowing it because regular square nails tend to be pretty sharp and blunt, and people often prefer to have the sides of their nails rounded out a bit.
The Noble Squoval
If you aren’t in love with squoval nails by now, we’ve done our job wrong. We made sure to include all different types, colors, designs, and styles of squoval nails so all walks of life could find something in here that spoke to them. So, we’re just going to go ahead and assume you’re kidding if you said you didn’t like any of these cause we can’t hear you through the screen anyways. Ciao peeps, it’s time to get filing.