Thinking of switching up your manicure? How about you change the length and shape? Here’s what I mean: Instead of trying out a new artwork as you’ve always been doing, take up a new nail length and shape like short coffin nails.
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Contrary to popular belief, a good manicure isn’t just about the design alone. Sure you need the popping colors, rhinestones, acrylic, foils, matte lacquer, etc., to achieve that stunning mani. But beyond that, the shape also contributes to the beauty of your nails.
If you want a beautiful manicure without the pointy tips of stiletto shapes, consider coffin nails. Though the name may sound creepy, these nails are chic. Best part? They’re convenient since you’d be keeping the length short. And you can rock them in any design whether as daisy nails or glossy polish to any occasion you deem fit. In this guide, we’ll show you how to pull off this nail shape with oomph and class. Read on as we explore.
Why Coffin Nails?
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Otherwise known as ballerina nails, coffin nails are stiletto nails with a square rather than a pointy tip. They are narrower than regular square-shaped nails and are filed on both sides so that the nail tapers and flattens at the tip to look like a coffin and a ballerina’s slipper—hence the name.
Ballerina nails can be long or short. But for this post, we’ll be focusing on the short length alone. Coffin nails with short lengths are as elegant as their long counterparts. The casket shape itself adds a touch of sophistication to its look. Furthermore, they’re chic, practical, and never offbeat for certain settings.
In addition, these nails add some edge to every outfit. They flatter your hand and fingers regardless of the shape. They’re also more fun than typical square or round-shaped nails. And thanks to their flat tip, they’re strong and durable, too.
How Did Coffin Nails Become Popular?
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We have Kylie Jenner to thank for popularizing these nails among ladies. Her go-to long, squared ballerina nails have become one of Instagram’s favorites. Beyond the app, we’ve seen the nails on other celebrities, including models on the catwalk.
Gorgeous Short Coffin Nails Ideas for the Fashion-Forward Lady
Pick your favorite or combine elements from these inspos and create a one-of-a-kind nail look that will elevate your hands and fingers.
Minimalist Short Coffin Nails
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If you like to keep things simple, combine your already-simple nails with a muted color. This can be nude, neutral, beige, cream, baby pink, peach, olives, etc. They’re classy and perfect for minimalists.
Pastel Ballerina Nails
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Pastel colors have just enough white mixed into them to give off a pale and soft look while maintaining their colorful personality. They’re subtle but colorful. Examples include millennial pink, creamy mint, light azure, whimsy yellow, etc.
Matte Short Coffin Nails
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Matte nails are dry-looking without any shine or gloss. They usually have a smooth surface free from any highlight or embellishment.
Glossy Nails
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On the other hand, if you love your nails shiny with that wet feeling, go for glossy short coffin nails. Unlike matte nails, they’re lustrous.
Glittery Nails
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These nails are iridescent with glitters and shimmers. They take your nail design from bland to radiant.
Embellished Short Coffin Nails
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Similar to the above nail designs, embellished nails also add spark to your fingers. They involve adding gemstones in any color to your fingernails to give them a double-stunning look.
Neon
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Colors in their brightest forms like red, green, purple, yellow, etc., also work great with the short coffin nail shape. They bring the drama to your minimalist length.
Statement Short Nails
Besides neon, you can also rock statement nails by opting for designs such as graffiti, swirls, evil eye, waves, etc., in different colors.
Clear Coffin Nails
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Transparent nails are a thing. If you’re using fake nails, clear polish gives the nails a natural look since it’ll blend in with your real fingernails to create an intrinsic finish.
French Manicure
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How about you rock the classic French mani? That is, pink or nude nails with white tips? However, these days, nail techs are switching things up by using other colors beyond white at the tips. Feel free to go for what suits you.
Monochrome Nails
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Would you rather rock your nails in black or white? Go for it then. Despite how simple they may look, black nails, as well as white, are premium, classy, and elegant.
How To Take Care Of Short Coffin Nails
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The good thing about this manicure is that the length won’t stress you to maintain. But that shouldn’t make you treat them with levity. Instead, use these tips to ensure your nails are durable:
- Take care of your cuticles and hands by washing and moisturizing.
- Avoid using certain chemicals like acetone on your finished nails.
- Avoid getting the nails into grease, oil, or dirt.
- Don’t chew the nails.
And that’s a wrap on this nail shape. If you still need more inspo to show to your nail technician, feast your eyes on these below:
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