Coffin (or ballerina) shaped nails are quickly gaining momentum thanks to ardent support from celeb fans like Cardi B, Dua Lipa, Kylie Jenner and Rihanna. The benefits? They can make fingers look long and graceful and they provide plenty of space for getting crafty with intricate designs or razzle dazzle embellishments.
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Wondering WTF a coffin or ballerina shaped nail actually is? Allow Juanita Huber-Millet, founder of top London nail bar, TOWNHOUSE, to explain…
What are coffin nails?
“Coffin-shaped nails (also known as ballerina nails) tend to be of a longer length,” explains Juanita. “The shape is pointed [like a stiletto shaped nail] but with a squared-off blunt end,” she says. This makes it look like the shape of a coffin, or the pointe slippers that ballet dancers wear, which is where this nail shape got its name from.
Why might people choose this nail shape over others?
“This shape elongates the fingers making them look delicate,” says Juanita. “The shape is very popular with nail extension methods as it can be difficult to maintain the length and shape with a natural nail.” For short natural nails, the squoval shape is a must-try.
What tools will you need?
You’ll need some nail clippers and a nail file. Keep your file to 240 grit so that it’s gentle on natural nails. Or, if you don’t have the length, you can recreate the shape with the help of acrylic nail extensions. For extensions, use a slightly coarser file (around 180 grit), as nail extensions tend to be thicker than natural nails.
