Does the shape of my nails matter?
The shape of your nail is a matter both of aesthetics and of practically. Along with color and length, the shape you choose for your fingernails can speak volumes about who you are and how you want the world to see you.

Short and natural shaping:
Are you a sort of person who thinks your nails are too short for a manicure? Short nails can be the epitome of chic, especially as a canvas for out-there colors. The key is to make sure the edges follow your natural shape-although everyone's free edge follows a different line, for most people it is a mirror of the shape of the fingertip. This low-maintenance look is perfect for those who work with their hands.

Square nail shaping:
If you have weak nails that often break, or you just have small nail beds, this is ideal shape for you. While the silhouette might be too angular on long nails, the straight, even surface can withstand the wear and tear of heavy daily use. Just be sure to keep them short so the edges don't chip off.

Square Oval Shaping:
This is the most popular shape in the business. Straight across the top and rounded at the edges, the square oval elongates the fingers and gives you r hand a more feminine look. This shape is best if you have longer, stronger nails, because filling the edges can cause weak or brittle nail to tear. And remember, the longer your nails, the more maintenance they will require, particularly if they are in an angular shape like squoval.

Round Shaping:
Because nails naturally grow in a somewhat rounded shape, this is a great silhouette for men and for those of us who need beautiful nails without a lot of hassle. Round nails look best short, making them ideal for people whose hands to get dirty (this means you, gardeners and cooking aficionados!) Also, if you've got wide nail beds, the all-around tapering will make them look slimmer.

Oval Shaping:
If you are lucky enough to have a job that doesn't require a lot of typing or general hand use, the classic oval is a beautiful, elongating look. Like a round nail, the oval is relatively natural looking, but it works best on a longer nail, because you need more space to form an oval shape. Wearers beware: This look works only if you are vigilant when it comes to filling, because typing, even on your phone keypad, will flatten an oval into squoval in no time flat.

Pointed Shaping:
This nail shape is not for the faint of heart. But if you simply cover the lacquered talons of old-school Hollywood vixens like Bette Davis, then perhaps you've got what it takes. You'll need a few things in order to successfully pull it off: super-strong and long nails, a penchant for filling, lot of attitude, and a job that doesn't require (any) manual work. In fact, you may have to hire a stuff to button your shirts!