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Everything You Need to Know About Nail Shapes This Summer

Published on 6/13/2016 at 3:00 AM

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Ben Ritter

Nailing your Summer manicure is about more than just painting on a bright color. For starters, stop and take a good look at your hands. You'll want to figure out the most flattering shape for your nails and then choose a salon-quality nail polish that is complementary. From sexy stiletto nails to unexpected ballerina tips to a clean, short shape, it's time to commit to your new style and pick a long-wear nail polish shade and finish with a shiny topcoat to make your manicure last. Here are three strong looks to try this season that have all stood the test of time.

The Sharp Stiletto

Celebrities on the red carpet and on stage are inspiring many women to put down the clippers in favor of stiletto nails. Mastering this shape takes serious commitment, so make sure you pair it with a nail enamel that will last and a high-shine topcoat for long wear. You’ll want a shade that’s equally bold — try an attention-grabbing red and wear your stiletto nails with confidence. Back in the ‘80s, this shape provided the finishing touch on power suits, but the ultrapointed tip we’re seeing today keeps your manicure looking fresh while maintaining the same powerful impact.

The Bare Ballerina

This nail shape has a squared-off tip that mimics ballerina pointe shoes. The flat edge lends an intrinsically ‘90s vibe that is being adopted once again by young, trendy celebs. One major advantage to this style is that the flat edge is less likely to break. To really keep your long nails intact, make sure to use a nail polish that is shatter proof and ding resistant. A taupe shade is the perfect complement to a ballerina shape to juxtapose the feeling of strong and soft.

Short and Straight

Closely clipped nails are still the most popular modern nail shape. But having shorter nail beds does not mean your manicure has to be basic! Do something unexpected and try a chic moon manicure in a futuristic color combo. We’ve created a DIY nail art look that is minimal and completely achievable. Use dual-ended clippers to achieve the right shape before painting. For a salon-quality manicure, lock in your look with an ultrashiny topcoat. Click here for a step-by-step moon manicure tutorial.

Get the Look: Revlon ColorStay Gel Envy™ Longwear Nail Enamel in Roulette Rush, Revlon ColorStay Gel Envy™ Longwear Nail Enamel in Checkmate, Revlon ColorStay Gel Envy™ Longwear Nail Enamel in Lucky Us, Revlon ColorStay Gel Envy™ Longwear Nail Enamel in Ace of Spades, Revlon ColorStay Gel Envy Diamond Top Coat™, and Revlon® Gold Series Titanium Coated™ Dual Ended Nail Clip.

Try one of these on-trend manicures at home and take the challenge here.