Here is a blog post from the amazing team at Australian Vogue on the hottest nail shapes with everything from pointed, oval, almond, square – here’s what your nails say about you.

Nail trends come and go, but often we stick to our go-to shape without a second thought. Read on to find out what our favoured nail shape says about us and which you should really be trying.

Round – This classic shape is says it all; you’ve worked the same style for some time and you most likely stuck with the same manicurist for years. Your wardrobe isn’t as pedestrian; you favour timeless over trend-based pieces and you like your nails to take a backseat to your sartorial choices.

Tip: This can be used to make hands that are a little bigger look smaller as it directs the eye down the natural contour of the finger.
Try this: The round shape suits most nail types and is the perfect base for trying out new shades and textures. 

Square – This shape is overall less subtle than the almond or oval-based shapes so you’re probably the type of person who doesn’t mind trying loud colours or exploring nail art. Your style runs the same course with experimental or statement pieces.

Tip: The key is to avoid making nails look shorter which is what this shape tends to do. Try filing the sides of nails to keep this look long and elegant, not stunted.
Try this: If you have a narrow nail bed, but steer clear if your nails are on the wider side as it won’t flatter.

Super short – You’re low maintenance. You like simplicity and your style is the same. You like tailored pieces or loose t-shirts and your dream wardrobe isn’t that dissimilar to your boyfriend or husband, except the occasional heel.

Tip: This nail shape is best finished with an oval or rounded tip. Square will make your nails look even shorter.
Try this: If you’re fond of loud nail shades or your nail bed is naturally long from tip to cuticle.

Stiletto – You’ve been watching the ins and outs of the nails world closely and know this is the shape has been steadily gaining momentum since seen on the spring/summer ’13 runways. You don’t shy from the spotlight, so that’s why Lana Del Ray, Rihanna and Nicole Richie favour the same style. If you’re matching this with a simple evening look and not OTT trophy jackets, you’re on the right track.

Tip: Avoid dark colours like black and semi-black purples and reds. Think haute, rather than Halloween.
Try this: If you have a short nail bed as the space needed to create the tip adds length.

Almond – A diluted version of the pointed nail, this is for those with modern taste. Quality is important to you, and you won’t go for anything that looks dated or vintage. This softer version of the stiletto has a future-classic appeal that suits you perfectly.

Tip: Don’t grow nails longer than a centimeter past your finger tip or you’ll be treading close to tacky.
Try this: If you have a wider nail bed this one is for you as it draws the eye to the narrowing tip.

Squoval (square-oval) – You’re not into experimenting and you like the status quo. Simple, elegant and halfway between a rounded and square nail your manicure matches your style that errs on the classic side which you update regularly with seasonal accessories.

Tip: You can alter this style to suit your finger shape. Go slightly more rounded if you have wide nails and if you have a thinner nail width you can afford to go more square.
Try this: If you want a simple wear-anywhere shape, or if you’re a fence-sitter between an oval and a square (the best of both wolds!)

For more from Australian Vogue visit…www.vogue.com.au