Coffin Nails: The Ultimate Guide to Your Next Nail Art Manicure
Coffin nails might evoke images of something spooky, but the name actually refers to their unique shape, which resembles the silhouette of a coffin. Characterized by long, tapered sides that culminate in a sharp, square tip, this nail style has become a staple in the world of manicures. You might recognize it as the chic nail shape that's been trending across social media under various hashtags.
Also known as ballerina nails, coffin nails have risen to fame from A-list celebrities to everyday nail enthusiasts. The name derives from either the angular shape reminiscent of a coffin or the flat toe of a ballerina's slipper. These nails feature a tight C-curve, tapered sides, and a straight free edge, making them a bold statement.
It's easy to confuse coffin nails with ballerina nails, which share a similar aesthetic but differ significantly in their shaping. Ballerina nails have sides that gently curve into a narrow square tip, whereas coffin nails boast sharply defined edges that form a more pronounced square tip. This distinction significantly affects the overall appearance, as the wider square tip of coffin nails lends an elongating effect to the fingers.
Once you've mastered the coffin shape, the canvas is yours to decorate. Popular color choices include whites and wine reds, often accentuated with gold touches. For added flair, many opt for small rhinestones or a matte finish to complete the look.
The unique coffin shape maintains the same width at the nail bed and tip, with the middle section widened to create a narrow-wide-narrow illusion. This design not only elongates the fingers but also gives the appearance of slimmer nail beds.
Unlike more niche trends like "bubble nails" or "aquarium nails," coffin nails have become a mainstream hit, frequently spotted in everyday fashion. A quick glance at social media reveals that coffin nails dominate roughly half of all nail posts.
How to Achieve Coffin Nails
To create coffin nails, start with a standard square shape on long or extended nails. Gradually file the corners near the free edge to form the signature tapered look.
Why Are Coffin Nails So Popular?
Coffin nails have skyrocketed in popularity thanks to nail art trends and increased accessibility. Until recently, achieving the coffin shape required sculpting with a nail form or modifying stiletto tips. Now, with the advent of coffin-shaped nail tips, the process has become quicker and more cost-effective, requiring fewer tools and less time in the salon.
How Long Should Coffin Nails Be?
For the perfect coffin nail look, a medium to long length is ideal to achieve that elegant, tapered shape. Shorter lengths can appear stumpy, so it's crucial to discuss your preferred length with your nail technician, considering factors like hand shape and lifestyle.
A basic coffin set typically takes one to two hours to complete. If you're adding intricate nail art, the time will vary based on the design's complexity. For those short on time, coffin-shaped press-ons offer a quick solution, ready in under 10 minutes.
The longevity of your coffin manicure can range from two to six weeks, depending on your lifestyle. Over time, the sharp edges will naturally soften and round out. For a striking look, consider a graphic French tip on your coffin nails. However, due to their length and defined corners, these nails may require a bit more care than rounded styles. As People magazine puts it, "It's the price you pay to be a baddie."
