The squoval nail shape is a classic for a reason. A perfect mashup between square and oval, it’s universally flattering thanks to gently rounded edges that look good on a variety of fingernails and lengths. While it’s hard to go wrong with this shape when it comes to nail art, some designs are especially flattering. We asked manicurists about their favorite squoval nail design ideas and they delivered a lineup of chic, wearable looks. From soft gradients to bold French tips, here are the styles they say pair perfectly with this classic silhouette.
Pastel Diagonal Tip
This geometric twist on a French mani looks great on squoval nail shapes. “It features soft pastel colors painted on the tips of the nail—painted on a diagonal—on top of a milky pink base,” says Evelyn Lim, nail artist and chief educator at MiniLuxe’s Paintbox Studio.”
Groovy Mani
Opt for some fun colors and a ‘70s twist with this squoval mani idea. Oversize daisies with colorful centers stretch across the entire nail on some designs, while squiggles, checkerboards, and smaller daisy patterns outfit the rest.
Glossy Buffed Finish
Here’s the perfect squoval mani idea for those seeking a “clean girl” meets “quiet luxury” aesthetic. Lean into soft, sheer pinks, milky whites, or translucent beige tones, says Cyndi Van, nail service and education director at Tricoci Salon & Spa. “Think ‘your nails, but better.’ It’s for those who want something ultra-natural. I love a simple high-shine clear coat over well-prepped nails.”
Cheetah Manicure
For an edgy mani, opt for cheetah print. You can choose two tonal shades—like pink and red, lilac and fuschia, or glossy black and matte black—that gives the animal print an artsy vibe. Or you can try a velvet cheetah mani or classic beige and black. “It takes a wardrobe staple cheetah print straight out of our closets onto the tips of our nails. And the squoval nail shape allows more surface area for the design.”
Framed Flowers
The framed flower mani is a fun way to lean into spring blossoms, but with a cutesy and unexpected twist. The rounded shape of the frame complements squoval nail shapes perfectly. Opt for a navy and cream color scheme like the design here, or try your own color combination.
Celestial Nails
You can’t go wrong with a celestial design, which is fitting no matter the season. Apply a solid base color—a blue shade works well—and then apply starbursts with gold nail polish. A dot in the center creates more flair.
Speckled Mani with Painted Moons
This speckled manicure keeps things low key, but adds just a touch of drama with some speckled flecks and gilded moons on a couple accent nails. The painted moons balance out the shape so it feels even softer.
Slim French Mani
Want to keep things super chic and subtle? The French is your girl, and she looks great on a squoval nail shape. Opt for a milky pink or beige base, then add a thin, crisp white French tip on the top. “This look pairs perfectly with squoval nails, since it adds a touch of elegance without overpowering the natural shape,” says Van.
Supermodel French Tip
Alternatively, try a neon, black, or even red French tip for more of a pop. “This spices up the traditional French manicure using the red shade seen on supermodels in the ‘90s, and the squoval shape modernizes the sharp square shape popular at the time.”
Soft Gradient
For another low key mani that looks good on squoval shapes, opt for a lightly blended sheer gradient. You can use soft pastels, neutral tones, or even brighter colors. “It creates a delicate, fresh effect that enhances the natural beauty of squoval nails,” says Van. “The soft gradient elongates the nail without looking harsh, making it perfect for a clean, polished appearance.”
Abstract Art
Channel your inner abstract artist with this colorful manicure idea for squoval nail shapes. Even on shor nails, the shape gives lots of real estate for the design. Opt for complementing blobs of color and add some contrast with black splatter.
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