The 17 Coolest Square Nail Ideas to Copy

Nails are one of the easiest things to change, but I have to admit that I’m a creature of habit when it comes to manicures. Sure, I love writing about experimental nail art, viral polish shades, and upcoming nail trends, but every time I sit down at a nail salon, I find myself wanting the same thing. Classic red soft oval shape. Is it predictable? absolutely. So it’s as surprising to me as it is to anyone that, in 2026, another nail shape has caught my attention: square nails.

Of course, square nails are nothing new, but in my mind, the statement nail shape always felt a little too sharp for me, and a little too Y2K-inspired. “For years, softer almond and oval shapes have been dominant, but people are looking for sharper, more purposeful shapes,” he explains. famous nail artist emily rose lansley. “Square nails look modern, confident, and a little nostalgic at the same time, which always helps trends come full circle.”

What is the difference between this year’s square nails and previous versions? 2026 is all about slightly softer edges and less boxy shapes in nails that are polished, fresh, and unexpectedly versatile. Nail artists even think it will be the coveted shape by 2026.

What are square nails?

“For trademark square nails, the sidewalls must be straight and the tips must be flat and straight,” he explains. Nail artist Simone Cummings. A suitable option for all nail lengths. cummings We point out that short square nails in particular are one of the most requested nail shapes right now. “I think the reason square nails are making a comeback is because they are a longer length that’s easier to maintain. Modern nail polishes are often more focused on ease of use and maintaining a natural nail look, even prescription nail polishes like Bio Sculpture and BIAB, rather than long sculpted acrylic nails.”

The sharp corners of the nails create Y2K’s trademark square manicure. cummings They point out that this can be personalized for each client. “You can keep the edges from being too sharp, but there’s a fine line between how far you can round the corners. Otherwise, you’ll end up with a more awkward finish. Skobal finish,” she explains.

How to make your nails square with a file

If you go to a salon, that’s fine as your manicurist will shape your nails into a true square shape, but if you want to try it yourself, a “soft square” is a great place to start. “Starting with a soft square allows you to get used to straighter edges without having to create sharp corners right away. Over time, you can gradually refine the shape to a more traditional hard edge,” he says. lansley.

“To create a classic square yourself, just file the free edge [the tip] “Go straight across and keep the top flat, then run the file completely flat on each side of the nail to create a straight, clean line,” she explains. “Precision is key; at every angle the shape approaches a coffin or an oval.”

square nail ideas

One of the best things about square nails? They’re incredibly versatile. “One block colors such as black and claret red, Brown and natural colors look very classy on this nail shape. Nail art is great, but I think the clean, neutral nail aesthetic with a chic French tip will continue to be a go-to for many people. ” cummings.

We’ve found 17 of the best square nail ideas to inspire your next manicure.

1. French tips

A simple French manicure looks more chic with this sharp square shape.

2. True Red

As a proponent of red nails, this bright manicure convinced me to turn my figure into a square next time I go to the salon.

3. Chocolate box

If you thought you’d be ditching brown nail polish in 2025, think again. Instead, ring in the new year by pairing chocolate or mocha hues with sleek, square silhouettes.

4. Berry Good

Rich berry hues are a winter staple, and this deep cassis looks so chic.

5. Subtle shine

Sparkly manicures aren’t just for party season. In fact, this soft and sparkly cat eye nail design is the perfect juxtaposition to the sharp square nail shape. a Shimmer nail polish also gives a similar look.

6. Soft square

A perfect replica of the 2026 square nail, this shape has slightly soft corners but a nice straight tip. and, Milky manicure itself is like a dream.

7. Neon splash

We’ve found that a simple square manicure is the perfect canvas to showcase more abstract and colorful nail art designs.

8. Olive green

It appeared as a popular nail color at the end of last year, Olive green nail polish is likely to reign as one of the most expensive-looking shades of 2026.

9. Black Cherry

It makes sense to combine an iconic nail color with an iconic nail shape. Burgundy nails are a creation made in manicure heaven.

10. Y2K Silver

Combining French tip colors is always a good idea, and the combination of metallic silver, elongated square tips, and fun nail piercings instantly gives you an early 1990s vibe.

Short square nails are very popular right now, but this super long, glamorous square tip proves that this style works just as well with long manicures.

12. Beary Square

If you’re worried that square nails look a little harsh, take inspiration from this fresh, modern interpretation, with slightly rounded edges that are ready to wear.

13. Lavender Strike

It would be rude not to draw attention to such a sharp tip. This abstract design with lilac color palette is very cool.

14. Classic black

Deep glossy black always makes a manicure look expensive and looks great on this sharp shape.

15. Neon hints

A bold switch to the classic white chip, A colorful French manicure, like this neon yellow, is perfect for highlighting straight, square shapes.

16.Vanilla gloss

If Lily Allen appreciated the square manicure, it’s sure to inspire everyone this year. The slightly soft square shape goes perfectly with this sheer and moist vanilla color.

17. Powder blue

Our expert manicurists agree that square nails look great with bold colors, and this soft cornflower blue makes a very pretty choice against the hard edges of this nail shape.

best square nail tools