How to pick the best nail shape for your hands

Stylish nails are all the rage this season, because – who doesn’t want pretty claws to flaunt wherever they may go?

A good manicure has the power to make hands appear rejuvenated. When it comes to nail extensions or even an overlay on your natural nails, the shape you choose for your hands is important. Luckily, there are quite a few options to choose from. Be realistic about the length you choose too because if you are more hands-on, extra-long nails will slow you down and make completing certain tasks a hassle. Now that we’ve gotten that out of the way, let’s explore the options you have in terms of style.

Here are six tips to help make the introduction a success.

Bringing your partner to family gatherings so that everyone can get to know each other can be as exciting as it is nerve-racking. You want your family to love your partner as much as you do and for everything to go smoothly. To help make the introduction a success, here are six tips to keep in mind.

1

PREPARE YOUR PARTNER BEFOREHAND

Let them know what to expect when they meet your family. Share the family dynamics, the quirks, and personalities. What are your parents like? Is your mom going to ask lots of questions? Is your father going to do the whole scary-dad thing? Do they go by their first names, Mr and Mrs So-and-so or Mama and Tata? Give your partner all the details to help them feel more comfortable and confident. It’s also vital to flag any off-limit topics such as politics, religion, gender equality etc.

2

PLAN THE MEETING IN ADVANCE

Choose a neutral location, like a restaurant, where both your partner and your family can feel comfortable. You could also plan for everyone to participate in something to break the ice, such as a quiz night or enjoying some live music – you know what everyone likes.

3

SET EXPECTATIONS

We all want to know what we’re up against. Let your partner know what your family is like and what to expect. Also talk to your family about your partner, and their qualities and interests. If no one is flying blind, everyone will be more prepared. This doesn’t mean that skeletons should be hauled out of the closet, but if Grandma has a habit of saying… problematic things… that shouldn’t come as a surprise.

4

BE SUPPORTIVE

While it is your family, your partner will be meeting them for the first time, and they’ll need backup! This means not only being there physically (don’t leave them alone for too long), but also helping them feel included if they are nervous or uncomfortable. Assurance is the best way to win your partner’s favour, and it will help your family understand your status as a couple.

1

STILETTO NAIL SHAPE

This nail shape was popular between 2014-2016 but remains a firm favourite amongst some even today. The stiletto nail shape oozes everything daring and is normally worn at medium and longer lengths, making it suitable for shorter hands and fingers. This is because it helps make them appear more elongated.

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NAIL CARE

While adorning our nails with everything pretty and glamorous looks good, it’s important to give them a breather and good care. Below are a few tips:

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  Some nail glues can be harsh on nails and leave them thin and feeling brittle. This is why you need to consider taking breaks in between your nail appointments.
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  If you don’t have cuticles that grow over the nail bed, avoid cutting them as this is likely to cause hangnails. Only cut cuticles if they are longer than normal.
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  Regularly using cuticle oils keeps your cuticles nourished and soft.
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  If you don’t like the idea of bare nails, consider a buff and shine that will keep your nails looking polished.
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  Moisturise your hands after every wash, this will keep them hydrated and looking youthful. Dryness leads to premature ageing, uneven skin tone and dullness.

2

ALMOND & OVAL NAIL SHAPES

These nail shapes are slightly similar, and while they’re both self-explanatory, the almond shape is slightly pointier and requires a bit more length to achieve the shape. The oval shape is normally paired with bright and sunny colours, and the almond shape looks good in neutral tones. Both these nail shapes are ideal for short hands and fingers, as they make them appear slimmer and longer.

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3

SQUARE & SQUOVAL (A COMBINATION OF SQUARE AND OVAL) NAILS SHAPES

The only difference between these two nail shapes is that the latter’s edges are slightly smoothed and not as pointy or sharp like they are on a normal square. These can be worn short or long, and suit long and slim fingers and hands because they make them appear fuller and wider. And whether you’re into neutral or popping shades, these will still look good. Unlike other nail shapes, these are stronger and unlikely to easily break.

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4

COFFIN NAIL SHAPE

Since these became trendy years ago, they’ve stuck. And the reason for that is simply because they suit all types of hands and fingers. The nail is a long square shape that tapers off at the end, flattering any hand shape. You’ll be happy to know that all colours will look good with this nail shape.

Related article: 10 Chemo comfort and beauty tips

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