When talking about nail shapes, square, coffin, and almond styles usually get all the hype. But there’s another contender that deserves the spotlight: squoval nails. This hybrid of square and oval combines the best of both worlds—a flat edge with softly rounded corners, usually just beyond the tip of your finger.
The result? A universally flattering look that suits every hand and shows off any polish or design beautifully. If you’re looking to switch up your manicure game, here are 20 squoval nail ideas you need to try!
1. Sparkly Chic
Y2K is back! Try chrome sparkles over a nude base to get that edgy effect. The gently rounded corners balance the harshness of the sparkles for a look that’s bold yet wearable.
2. Red Marble
Marble effects aren’t just elegant—they’re fun. Swirls of vibrant red make this a manicure worth wearing all year round. Try a DIY water marble technique for a personalized look.
3. Ombré Flames
Make flames the focal point by pairing a black background with ombré flame art. The squoval shape keeps the design looking modern and strong.
4. Studded Frenchies
A deep French tip lined with tiny gold studs brings a glamorous edge. This design is perfect for longer squoval tips, adding drama without overwhelming the shape.
5. Tie-Dye Tips
Multicolored tie-dye tips are playful, especially on a slightly longer squoval nail. They offer a pop of personality without being over the top.
6. Mocha Contrast
Brown and black color blocking is both seasonal and trendy, and the shape’s soft lines keep the contrast sophisticated, not harsh.
7. Princess Nails
Minimalist “princess” nails featuring simple pink or nude tones shine with this universally flattering silhouette.
8. Bold Mix-and-Match
Think emojis, strawberries, and smiley faces—all on one hand! Intricate mix-and-match designs pop on a squoval canvas, but you might want a pro for this level of detail.
9. Negative Space Nails
Pastels plus milky “sea glass” bases and lots of negative space give a chic, airy vibe that’s easy to love.
10. Tomato Girl
Rich, fiery red channels the “tomato girl” trend (even if the summer is past). It’s a punchy, energetic update on classic red nails.
11. Dotted Delight
Who says you can’t mix spots, stripes, and grids? Mismatched multicolor dot designs look lively and cheerful on squoval tips.
12. Java Swirl
Pair swirly line art with a neutral base and rich brown hues—perfect for a subtle-yet-eye-catching effect.
13. Groovy Mismatch
Transparent “milky” backgrounds bring a fresh twist to bold, mix-and-match abstract designs. It’s a look that feels edgy yet approachable.
14. Dot Dot Dot
Primary-colored polka dots arranged on squoval nails make for a playful, modern mani.
15. Geo Tips
Upgrade your tips with geometric, asymmetric color blocks instead of traditional French lines. Use peaches, reds, or soft neutrals for a fresh appeal.
16. Pastel Squiggle
Channel retro Barbie with pastel polish and playful squiggle nail art. The blend of rounded edges and abstract lines is pure fun.
17. Passion Project
Make birthdays extra special with a manicure that shouts your age. Think “33” motifs, sparkles, and confetti, elevated by the clean squoval silhouette.
18. Velvet Rainbow
The trending “velvet” finish, when paired with ombre rainbow colors, instantly catches the eye—especially when crafted by a skilled nail artist.
19. Nude Shimmer
Combine subtle nude bases with rose-gold squiggles or abstract metallic lines for a sophisticated shimmer that never looks overdone.
20. I Heart Squoval
Keep things simple and sweet with a minimalist heart accent. Hand-painted red hearts show some love for this universally flattering shape.
