Coffin nails, despite their name, are a surprisingly popular and glamorous manicure choice. Their shape, resembling a coffin or a ballerina's slipper, features long, tapered nails ending in a sharp square tip. This striking shape, once primarily seen on celebrities, has quickly become a mainstream trend.

Often confused with ballerina nails, coffin nails differ in their sharper, more defined square tip. Ballerina nails have softly curved sides, while coffin nails feature a straight, precisely cut edge creating that distinct square. This subtle difference significantly impacts the overall look, with the wider square tip of the coffin nail creating a universally flattering lengthening effect for the fingers.

While any color or nail art can be applied, whites, wine reds, and gold accents are particularly popular, often complemented by rhinestones and a matte finish. The unique shape of the coffin nail—narrow at the base and tip, wider in the middle—creates an illusion of slimmer fingers and narrower nail beds.

Unlike some fleeting nail trends, coffin nails enjoy widespread popularity, frequently appearing in social media posts. This enduring appeal is partly due to increased accessibility. Until recently, creating coffin nails required specialized techniques, but now readily available coffin-shaped nail tips and products make the style easier and more affordable to achieve.

Why are coffin nails so popular now?

The rise of coffin nails is fueled by both aesthetic appeal and improved accessibility. The introduction of pre-shaped tips and products has significantly reduced the time and skill required for creation, leading to lower costs for consumers.

How long are coffin nails?

For the most elegant look, medium to long nail lengths are ideal to achieve the proper taper. However, the perfect length depends on individual preference, hand shape, and lifestyle. Consultation with a nail technician is recommended. Application time for a simple set typically ranges from one to two hours, with nail art adding to the time. Press-on options offer a quick alternative, taking under ten minutes to apply.

Longevity and Maintenance:

Coffin nails can last two to six weeks, depending on lifestyle and wear. The sharp edges will naturally soften over time. While stylish, their length and defined corners may require slightly more care and maintenance than rounded nails.