For every soul who loves the idea of a long, trendy manicure but can’t commit to the upkeep or admittedly intimidating aesthetic of dagger or coffin nails, we have good news —the nail shape pendulum has swung again, bringing with it the sensible and somewhat nostalgic square nail shape. Another noughties throwback, the square nail is unsurprisingly much lower maintenance and far more versatile — in that, it can be worn at a variety of lengths, depending on your lifestyle and preferences, shares Richa Bhadra, founder of the SoBo Nail Salon. She notes that the style has been sported by a number of celebrities in recent times, including Kylie Jenner, Hailey Bieber and Cardi B. If you’re in the market for a trendy square tip, she offers some advice and style inspiration to get you started.

Demi Moore contrasts her outfit with her glossy nail polish. Pic Courtesy/@demimoore

Weigh your options

“Square tips offer enough square footage for intricate nail art, even at shorter lengths. The abstract art and chrome nails trends that have taken off in recent months are especially well suited to this nail shape. You could wear your nails clipped sensibly short in this shape, while still looking chic,” Bhadra elaborates. On the downside, the edges of square nails can catch on sweaters or tights more easily, and also scratch your skin, especially at longer lengths. This shape also tends to need more regular filling to keep the edges crisp; without due care, your manicure could soon end up looking uneven and jagged, she warns.

Roseanne Park aka Rose. Pics Courtesy/@nails_of_LA

Style it up

Chrome, abstract art, ombre colours and French tips work especially well with square nail shapes. “You could also opt for more intricate designs with a lot of minute detailing given the larger area your nail technician has to work with,” says Bhadra.

Richa Bhadra

For those working in corporate jobs, the square nail shape can look much more professional. In addition to the classic French manicure, experiment with the American mani that has a softer, more natural-looking white tip.

(From left) Abstract designs can pick up your style, Vibrant patterns can be a good way to dress up your nails, Square nail shapes can add some flair to your corporate look

Conversely, you can also have some imaginative fun with the design — vibrant patterns, colours and charming motifs are easy ways to dress up your nails. If you really want to lean into the noughties aesthetic, don’t shy away from paisley designs, dots, shimmery sheer shades and silver glitter lines.

(From left) Do not shy away from paisley designs or sheer shades, Dots and shimmery sheer can up your noughties aesthetic, Use intricate designs creatively. Pics Courtesy/SOBO nail salon

As a final note, if you don’t have very strong nails to begin with, a stronger formula such as acrylic, hard gel or Polygel is recommended to prevent chips and broken edges, Bhadra suggests, before signing off.