Can't stop, won't stop looking at these pics.
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Let's get one thing straight: I've never been thaaat into my nails. Like, until recently, I had gotten so used to filing my nails into the same boring round shape that I kinda-sorta forgot other options existed. It wasn't until I got a manicure last week and my technician suggested I try a square edge that I realized how something so minor like a nail shape can totally transform my vibe. Like, all of a sudden my nails looked cool? And intentional? And not the same as a middle-schooler's? Needless to say, I've been on a square-nail beat ever since, and my Instagram saved collection is proof. And to get you on my level of "WUT," I pulled the coolest, prettiest manicure ideas and designs to complement square nails—so get ready to screenshot 'em.
1
These Floral Square Nails
Nail art doesn't require a round or almond nail shape, as evidenced by this cute floral design that's perfect for a clean, square edge. And that cute splash of navy blue gives this manicure a lil extra something.
💫Recreate it with: OPI Infinite Shine in Get Ryd-of-Thym Blues
2
These Abstract Square Nails
The perfect addition to square nails, this abstract nail art combines the prettiest shades of pink, purple, and navy blue polishes. Don't feel like you can DIY this one? Grab your polish and book an appointment with a pro.
💫Recreate it with: Sally Hansen Color Therapy Nail Polish, Ohm My Magenta
3
These Subtle Square Nails
IMHO, there's nothing better than a clean and simple manicure, especially when it's combined with a square nail shape. Anyone else weirdly obsessed with this neutral taupe polish?
💫Recreate it with: Zoya Satin Nail Polish in Rowan
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4
These Square-Oval Nails
Not sure if square nails are for you? Test drive a more subtle approach, like this part-square, part-oval shape that's perfect for nail art or solid polish. Just make sure you've got a solid nail file on hand.
💫Recreate it with: Werony Glass Nail File
5
These Tortoise Square Nails
Another reason to try square nails? They give you plenty of room for intricate nail art, like this tortoise shell design. BTW: I'm personally a fan of nail stickers when I can't make it to the salon.
💫Recreate it with: Static Nails UO Exclusive Reusable Pop-On Manicure Kit
6
These Picasso-Inspired Square Nails
I'm usually more of a short-nail gal, but this cute-ass square nail design has me considering Kylie Jenner-worthy acrylics. (Or, at the very least, some realistic-looking press-ons.)
💫Recreate it with: Kiss Masterpiece One-Of-A-Kind Luxe Mani Nails with Glue
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7
These Flower Square Nails
I never thought I'd want a rhinestone manicure until I saw this insanely pretty design. The square tips, flower decals, glossy top coat, and press-on stones are too cute to pass up.
💫Recreate it with: Sally Hansen Mega Strength Ultra-Shine Top Coat
8
These Neon Square-Tip Nails
Not feeling the straight-across square edge? Try out this sick manicure idea, which features sharp angles with a smooth edge. It's kinda the perfect look for a gradient manicure.
💫Recreate it with: China Glaze Nail Lacquer in Neon Orange Knockout
9
These Galaxy Square Nails
Blue and gold is a pretty timeless nail polish combo, but this galaxy design really brings it to the net level. Have your nail artist shape your nail into a smooth and subtle square edge to pull off the look.
💫Recreate it with: Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Matte Metallics in Gold Rush
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10
These Cow Square Nails
I gotta say, cow print is shaping up to be my favorite animal print of 2020 (sry, leopard). Next up on my square manicure list? This cow-print design with itty-bitty gold flecks.
💫Recreate it with: Cirque Colors Crème Nail Polish in Carpe Diem
Ruby Buddemeyer
Ruby was the beauty editor at Cosmopolitan, where she covered beauty across print and digital. Her work has appeared on The Zoe Report, Fashionista, and StyleCaster. Follow her on Instagram.
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