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It's the superior nail shape, IMO.

Almond nails sound pretty self-explanatory, right? As the name so obviously suggests, these nails are inspired by the slightly pointed shape of an almond. They're similar to oval nails, except they're not quite as rounded, and they typically create the illusion of longer hands.

“This shape elongates and slenderizes the hand," says celebrity nail artist Elle Gerstein. "It also works for people who are active because it helps avoid chipping the corners."

Whether you're planning on requesting almond nails during your next trip to the nail salon or you're trying to mimic the style on your own, creating the perfect almond shape is a lot easier than you might think. "File inward at the free edge and taper the nail to create a pointed look bringing the file in from each side wall of the nail," says LeChat Nails educator Syreeta Aaron. "As the nail becomes slimmer to a point, you round the tip just a smidge to replicate an almond."

Gerstein notes that if you're trying to create the shape at home, the key is to not spend too much time filing away at the sides of the nail, as "this causes them to break.”

"You file from underneath and need longer nails to make the shape appear," she says.

Almond nails are a great option if you're someone who often does a lot with your hands. "I typically give clients the almond shape when they type a lot, do a lot of paperwork, are very active, or just want a little length to their nails," says Aaron. "Overall, I honestly think almond nails are the best shape for those that want a little length because they are so versatile when it comes to being active."

If you're looking for some design inspiration, the good news is that Aaron suggests pretty much any design looks good on almond nails, while Gerstein adds that because of the nail shape, modern designs—especially deep French manicures—might be best.

Convinced yet? Read ahead to check out some Instagram-worthy designs for almond nails that totally are worth adding to your mood board.

A post shared by Amanda Cruz Nails (@amandacruz.nails)

A classic that fits any occasion.

A post shared by Elle Gerstein (@enamelle)

Because just a simple dot—or two, or three—can be chic sometimes too.

A post shared by Nubian Native (@nubiannativeza)

Why pick one color when you can choose a whole color family?

A post shared by Elle Gerstein (@enamelle)

Gold foils are an amazing addition when you want to keep your manicure simple while still adding a hint of luxury.

A post shared by 𝐀𝐑𝐈𝐄𝐋 𝐃𝐀𝐒 𝐔𝐍𝐇𝐀𝐒 | 𝐍𝐀𝐈𝐋 𝐃𝐄𝐒𝐈𝐆𝐍 (@studiofernandafulas)

When all else fails, go all-black!

A post shared by NAILS BY NATCH - ATL GEL-X PRO (@topnatchco)

An updated take on the classic French manicure, this trend features two lines painted across the tip of your nail.

A post shared by Μαρία Μαργαρίτη (@nails_mmrg)

For when you want to give your French manicure a much darker—and sexier—twist.

A post shared by Lydiette Lopez (@nailsbylydiette)

This design puts an asymmetrical twist on the French manicure with crescent-like shapes painted along the tips of the nail.

A post shared by 𝐆𝐄𝐋 ✕ 𝐍𝐀𝐈𝐋𝐒 - 𝐑𝐈𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐒𝐈𝐃𝐄, 𝐂𝐀 (@nailslpc.xo)

Despite what Miranda Priestly might say, florals for spring are actually kind of iconic.

A post shared by 𝐍𝐚𝐢𝐥 𝐀𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐬𝐭 + 𝐄𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐫 🌙 (@lauren__opal)

When you want to keep things simple while giving the illusion of color, you can add pink acrylic to give your nails a milky look.

A post shared by Artdecom - Milica Maslan (@artdecom)

A fun, bright color combination is never a bad idea.

A post shared by SHITZBYTANYA | LA NAIL TECH (@shitzbytanya)

Even though this trend is about elongating the fingers, you don't have to have long nails to rock them.

A post shared by jc 🌻 (@peachologybeauty_)

A French manicure can always be taken up a notch with bright colors, designs, or in this case, rhinestones.

A post shared by @herxnails

Leave some negative space in your French tips to make them look a little less plain.

A post shared by Nailpro (@nailpromagazine)

Nude nails don't have to be boring—just look at the evidence!

A post shared by Iram Shelton (@iramshelton)

French tips! Half moons! Crescents! They all look great on their own but who knew they'd look even better when you combine them in one abstract manicure?

A post shared by Aistė P. (@heygreatnails)

When you can't decide on just one color, this is one of the more creative ways to just combine them all.

A post shared by Madi the Artist (@nailchicmadi)

Embrace your wilder side by mixing a handful of different animal prints.

A post shared by SPECIALIZED IN NAILS DESIGNS (@nailsby_thao)

They're like French tips with more of a seductive twist.

A post shared by Lydia Rose (@fashioninflux)

Who knew nails inspired by tights could look so good?!

A post shared by Madi the Artist (@nailchicmadi)

Proof that even a simple manicure can be turned into a work of art.

A post shared by JoLinn🖤 Phx AZ Nails (@clawanddagger)

You can go fully matte or add some glossy tips—both options look super chic.

A post shared by Kayleigh (Kails) 💅🏼 (@nails_with_kails)

Bet you can think of 101 reasons why you love this gorgeous design.

A post shared by HARD AS NAILS STUDIO (@hardasnails_studio)

A subtle design for the glitter lovers out there.

A post shared by JESSICA BAILEY (@jessthrowiton_)

For when you really want to get intricate.

A post shared by Kinga (@kingaxnails)

Red is the ultimate power color.

A post shared by ʙᴏᴏᴋɪɴɢ ғᴏʀ ᴀᴘʀɪʟ🦋 (@klawsbysonia)

Bring the gentle, calming energy of rose quartz to your manicure.