Top 5 most popular acrylic nail shapes according to manicurists

If you've ever had a manicure, you've probably heard of acrylic nails. This method of build-up has remained one of the most popular for many years.
The technology is based on two components - monomer and acrylic powder. When they are combined, the polymerisation process starts: the material gradually hardens, turning into a strong and durable coating.
Like polygel, acrylic is applied to the natural nail using a mould or glued tips. The master then models the desired length and shape, creating strong and aesthetically pleasing nails.
Let's take a look at the five most popular acrylic nail shapes. And immediately note: it is impossible to make a single rating here. The popularity of each form - a matter of taste. It all depends on what style you choose for yourself. Universal ‘ideal’ form simply does not exist - it is determined only by your image and preferences.
The technology is based on two components - monomer and acrylic powder. When they are combined, the polymerisation process starts: the material gradually hardens, turning into a strong and durable coating.
Like polygel, acrylic is applied to the natural nail using a mould or glued tips. The master then models the desired length and shape, creating strong and aesthetically pleasing nails.
Let's take a look at the five most popular acrylic nail shapes. And immediately note: it is impossible to make a single rating here. The popularity of each form - a matter of taste. It all depends on what style you choose for yourself. Universal ‘ideal’ form simply does not exist - it is determined only by your image and preferences.
1. Square shape
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As the name suggests, square nails have a straight cut at the tips and sharp corners. This shape was a real standard in the 80s, and today it's back in vogue - you can see it on the catwalks and on the hands of celebrities alike. Unlike other shapes, square nails have side lines that remain parallel and do not taper towards the tip.
Square nails are versatile: they can be both short and laconic, and very long and spectacular. This is one of the easiest forms when working with acrylics, because most ready-made tips already have a square cut.
2. Stiletto shape
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Stiletto nails are characterised by straight side lines that converge into a spectacular point. This shape is perfectly combined with acrylic coating, because it is almost impossible to achieve it naturally: a natural nail becomes too fragile when sharpened. Acrylic gives the necessary strength and allows you to boldly experiment with the design.
Nail stilettos open up limitless possibilities for creativity: they look spectacularly intricate and bright patterns, art painting and 3D-elements. At the same time, this shape can look refined and restrained - just choose a single-coloured coating or classic nude. The length and silhouette of such nails make any decision maximally expressive.
3. Ballerina shape
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While square nails are characterised by sharp, straight side lines, the ballerina shape is characterised by slightly tapered edges that are gently rounded at the tip. This shape looks more graceful and elegant, giving the hands a refined look.
The ‘ballerina’ nail shape is one of the most popular shapes for acrylic extensions, and it suits almost everyone. This shape is incredibly stylish: it makes the manicure expressive and spectacular, emphasising the beauty of the hands.
4. Almond shape
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The almond-shaped nails taper gracefully towards the tip, maintaining a soft, slightly rounded finish, which gives the hands a delicate and feminine touch. This shape looks especially effective with acrylic extensions, visually lengthens short fingers and gives the impression of a longer and well-groomed nail bed.
5. Round shape
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The round shape resembles an almond, but is more rounded and usually shorter, making it particularly comfortable and functional. This shape is especially popular among people with small hands and short fingers.
The functionality of round nails is further enhanced by the strengthening effect of acrylic. As a result, they become one of the most sought-after shapes: strong, natural-looking and aesthetically pleasing at the same time, combining beauty and practicality.
Acrylic nail powder
Read also: How to shorten acrylic nails at home: step-by-step guide
The functionality of round nails is further enhanced by the strengthening effect of acrylic. As a result, they become one of the most sought-after shapes: strong, natural-looking and aesthetically pleasing at the same time, combining beauty and practicality.
Acrylic nail powder
Read also: How to shorten acrylic nails at home: step-by-step guide
Published: 20.08.2025 10:31
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