Squoval Nails: The Perfect Blend Of Square And Oval

Squoval nails, sometimes called square-oval nails, are a hybrid nail shape that combines the straight edges of square nails with the rounded corners of oval nails. As described by The History and Merits of Square Nails, squoval nails offer “the best of both worlds,” providing a modern, stylish look. Though squoval nails have likely been around for decades, they’ve recently surged in popularity as people move away from harsher square shapes but still want a clean, defined edge.

The squoval is versatile enough to suit any nail length or size. Compared to square nails, the softer corners are less prone to breaking, chipping, or catching on things. Many nail art designs and colors also complement the balanced squoval shape. With the trendiness of square nails combined with the elegance and practicality of oval nails, it’s no wonder the squoval has become a top choice for stylish nails.

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Benefits of Squoval Nails

Squoval nails are the perfect blend of square and oval nail shapes, combining the durability of square nails with the femininity of oval nails.

The square edges of squoval nails make them more durable and resistant to breaking compared to rounded oval nails. However, the slightly rounded corners soften the overall look. Squovals are not as harsh-looking as square nails yet not as fragile as oval nails (source).

The lengthening effect of oval nails is maintained in a squoval shape. So you can enjoy elongated, slender-looking fingers while still benefiting from the reinforcement square edges provide (source).

In essence, squoval nails offer the best of both worlds – a strengthened nail that withstands daily wear and tear yet appears feminine, flattering and chic.

How to Shape Squoval Nails

Properly shaping squoval nails is essential to achieving the perfect blend of square and oval shapes. The key is mastering the filing techniques to avoid overly rounded edges.

Start by trimming nails straight across to desired length using nail clippers. According to wikihow.com, use a 240-grit nail file held at a 45-degree angle against the corners to gently round them off [1]. File each nail corner with short, downward strokes. Too much filing will make the nails appear overly rounded instead of the signature squoval shape.

Focus filing efforts on the edges, keeping the center area of the nail straight. As recommended by byrdie.com, avoid sawing the file back and forth as this can cause nails to thin out over time [2]. Always file nails in one direction, from the outside edge to the center.

Use a finer grit file around 220 to smooth and shape nail tips. Keep the center area of the nail straight while rounding only the corners. The end result should be a clean, balanced squoval shape.

Length and Size Options

One of the great things about squoval nails is how versatile the shape is for different nail lengths and widths. From short to long, skinny to wide – the squoval shape flatters all nail beds.

For nail length, squoval nails look great whether kept short or grown long. Short squoval nails are a crisp, clean look that is professional and put-together. Nails kept at a shorter length, like just past the fingertips, maintain the structured square edge but gain softness from the rounded corners.

Longer squoval nails are elegant and eye-catching. When grown out longer, the straight edges give the impression of length while the rounded corners balance out the severity of a square shape. Long almond or oval nails can sometimes look severe, so the rounded squoval is a great alternative for longer nails.

Beyond length, squoval nails suit any nail width or size. Narrow nail beds can opt for a skinny squoval shape that flatters their natural proportions. Wider nail beds have the room to play with a dramatic, wide-set squoval for maximum impact.

The blend of square and oval in the squoval shape means it can be customized to flatter any nail length or width. That versatile adaptability is what makes it such a universally flattering nail shape for any nails.

Maintenance Tips

Keeping your squoval nails looking their best requires regular maintenance and care. Here are some key tips for maintenance:

Filing is crucial for maintaining the signature squoval shape. Use a fine grit file and file in one direction, starting from the sides and gently rounding off the edges. Be careful not to overfile or create uneven edges. Filing every few days helps keep the shape crisp (source).

Take care of your cuticles by gently pushing them back after a shower or bath when they are softened. Never cut your cuticles as this can lead to infections. Apply cuticle oil daily to keep them hydrated and flexible.

Keep nails moisturized with a daily swipe of nail oil or coconut oil. This prevents brittleness and peeling. For extra hydration, apply a nourishing cuticle cream before bedtime.

Use a nail strengthener polish once or twice a week to reinforce nails and prevent breaks or chips which can ruin the smooth squoval shape. Avoid overuse of acetone-based nail polish removers as these can cause dryness.

Nail Art Ideas

Squoval nails are a versatile shape that can be decorated with various nail art techniques. Some popular options include:

French tips – the straight edge of the squoval makes a crisp line for perfect French manicures. White tips contrast nicely against darker squoval base colors.
Ombre – gradient ombre colors look beautiful on the squoval shape. Start dark at the cuticle and fade to a lighter color towards the tip.
Abstract art – squoval nails have enough surface area for fun abstract designs like lines, dots, geometric patterns and shapes.
Glitter – a touch of glitter or shimmer adds flair to any squoval nail. Full glitter nails are eye-catching too.
Stamping – the straight edges of squovals allow for clean stamping of patterns, images or messages using nail stamping kits.

The balanced look of the squoval nail lends itself well to all kinds of nail art. Get creative with colors, textures and designs! For inspiration, see the nail art boards on Pinterest.

Choosing Squoval Nail Colors

When selecting colors for squoval nails, it’s important to choose shades that complement the shape. According to this source, the most flattering colors on short and square nails tend to be sheer nudes and shimmery metallics, such as rose gold. These help elongate the look of the nails. Darker colors like deep reds, berries, and plums can also look striking against the straight edge of a squoval nail.

For summer, lighter colors tend to look best on squoval nails. Pastels like soft pink, mint, and baby blue give off a delicate vibe. You can also try white or a sheer pink for a clean and natural look. Adding a bit of shimmer or glitter (but not chunky glitter) can help make the nails pop. Just avoid going too dark or bold with summer colors on a squoval shape.

Metallic shades like copper, rose gold, and chrome look beautiful on squovals year-round. They provide dimension while elongating the look of the nails. And they pair well with any outfit. For winter, richer tones like burgundy, forest green, navy, and plum look elegant on the squoval shape.

The straight edge of a squoval nail allows for clean color blocking if you want to get creative. Just avoid color pairings that visually shorten the nails. Stick to complementary shades. Adding nail art like polka dots, stripes, or florals can also look very chic on a squoval nail!

DIY vs Professional Squoval Nails

Doing your own squoval nails at home can save money and allow you to experiment more freely. However, visiting a professional nail salon has some advantages as well.

Pros of DIY Squoval Nails

More affordable – DIY manicures cost a fraction of salon visits.
Convenience – You can shape and paint your nails on your own schedule.
Creative freedom – Trying new colors, art, and designs is easier at home.

Cons of DIY Squoval Nails

Learning curve – It takes practice to master proper nail shaping and painting techniques (per Byrdie).
Messy – Doing your own manicures can get polish everywhere.
Shorter durability – Salon manicures tend to last longer before chipping.

Pros of Professional Squoval Nails

Expertise – Nail techs are highly trained in nail health, shaping, and polish application.
Neater experience – No polish mess at the salon.
Enhanced durability – Salon manicures tend to last 2-3 weeks before needing a touch up.

Cons of Professional Squoval Nails

Expense – Salon manicures typically cost $30-$50 and up per visit.
Inconvenience – You must book appointments and commute to the salon.
Less customization – Techs may not always do the length or designs you want.

FAQs on Squoval Nails

Squoval nails are a blend of square and oval shapes, often creating some very practical yet stylish options. However, there are some common questions that come up when considering this nail shape:

Are squoval nails suitable for short nail lengths?

Yes, the squoval shape works great for shorter nails, as the square edges help nails look neat and shapely even when they are not very long (1). The rounded edges soften the look.

What length should I get for squoval nails?

Squoval nails look great at short, medium and long lengths. For short nails, keep them just beyond the fingertips with a squared shape and slightly rounded edges. Medium length squoval nails can extend just a bit further with a bit more of an oval look. Long squoval nails will look very elegant and dramatic if you make the shape more oval as the length increases (2).

How do I maintain my squoval nails?

Maintenance is easy with squoval nails. Simply file the edges straight across to maintain the square shape, and round the corners. Use cuticle oil daily to nourish the nails, and be very gentle near the cuticles when cleaning to avoid lifting or damage (3).

Overall, squoval nails are versatile for any nail length and easy to maintain at home.

Conclusion

In summary, squoval nails offer the perfect blend between square and oval nail shapes. They provide a classy and sophisticated look that flatters most nail beds. The gently rounded corners are less prone to breaking or chipping compared to sharper square edges. At the same time, the straight sides give a clean, polished appearance compared to rounded ovals.

When shaping squoval nails at home, focus on filing the nails straight across before lightly rounding the corners. Aim for a subtle curve rather than a dramatic oval. The length and size can be customized based on your preferences and occasion. Shorter squoval nails are great for everyday wear, while longer lengths make more of a statement.

To keep squoval nails looking their best, use cuticle oil daily and file away any chips. Play around with different nail art techniques and colors to complement the versatile squoval shape. Whether you DIY or visit a salon, squoval nails offer a fashionable in-between shape that is easy to maintain.

With the right care and creativity, squoval nails can help you achieve an elegant and stylish manicure that fits any personality or style.