Stiletto Nail Shape: How To Get The Bold Look + Care Tips For Growth

A good manicure always starts with a solid nail shape. If you're looking for something bold and edgy, you may consider trying out the stiletto shape. It may not be the easiest to achieve at home, but it's not impossible if you dedicate some time to this DIY project. 

For shorter nails, round and square tend to be the most popular. These shapes are the easiest to achieve on shorter nails because the sides don't require as much length as those mentioned previously. 

Ling warns that this shape can be easily broken due to the ultrathin tip. So if you're looking for something durable, especially if you work with your hands frequently, then almond may be a better choice if you desire the long and pointed look. 

Before you begin shaping your nail, be sure to clean off any residual polish. Even if you haven't recently polished your tips, it's a good idea to get a cotton pad and dab some remover over each nail to ensure it's ready for your mani. 

It's best to start out with minimal cutting, Ling warns, as filing should do the majority of the nail shaping. This initial cut simply helps to establish the pointed tip, making it easier to achieve a sharp look. 

Continue filling, slowly but surely, until you are satisfied with the look. Because stiletto tips end in a sharp point, it's important to file the nail evenly on both sides. This may take a bit more time than other shapes you may be used to, so be patient with yourself. 

To replenish hydration in the hands, keep hand cream on standby. Place a tube next to your sink to ensure it's always ready to go post-wash. Here's a list of our favorite hand lotions if you're on the hunt.

Just as you would for your skin, setting aside time to tend to the nails is essential for maintaining healthy tips. This means keeping your cuticles hydrated (may we recommend a cuticle oil?), keeping a file on hand for any tears, and regularly exfoliating the nail. 

If you tend to bite or pick at your nails, you may want to consider coating them with an anti-bite polish. This way, when you subconsciously go to bite your nails, the rancid taste will deter you, thus helping to break the habit. Especially if you want to grow your nails long enough for a stiletto shape, this step is key. 

Keeping up with a healthy nail care routine includes tending to your tips from within, and supplements may be able to fill some dietary gaps and provide additional benefits.* According to research, collagen supplements can support healthy nail growth.*

Biotin, a form of vitamin B that is often used in hair growth supplements, is another winner for nail health.* Biotin has been shown to support the thickness and firmness of nails2.* As we said before, keeping the nails long and strong is essential for achieving the stiletto shape. 

If you're looking to make a statement with your nail shape, stiletto is the way to go. This bold look isn't the easiest to do DIY-style but can most definitely be achieved with practice and patience. This shape does require a decent amount of length on the tip, so be sure to keep up with a nail care routine, both inside and out, if you want to nail the look. Now, if you love the look of stiletto nails but need something a bit more practical for every day, you may consider trying out an almond shape instead—here's the how-to.