Coffin nails might evoke images of something eerie, but this manicure style is actually named for its striking resemblance to a coffin's shape. Characterized by long, tapered nails that culminate in a sharp, square tip, coffin nails have become a ubiquitous trend in the nail art world. You might have seen them everywhere without realizing that this glamorous shape is known as coffin nails, often discovered through social media hashtags.

Also referred to as ballerina nails, this style initially gained popularity among celebrities but has since become a staple in the nail industry. The name derives from either the angular shape of a coffin or the flat toe of a ballerina's slipper, featuring a tight C-curve, tapered sides, and a straight free edge.

It's easy to confuse coffin nails with ballerina nails, which are similarly named for their resemblance to ballet slippers. The key difference lies in their shaping: ballerina nails have sides that gently curve into a narrow square tip, whereas coffin nails have sides that cut sharply to form a defined, square tip. This distinction significantly affects the overall appearance of the hand, as the wider square tip of coffin nails creates a universally elongating effect.

Once you've mastered the coffin shape, the possibilities for nail art and color are endless. However, we've observed that whites and wine reds are particularly popular, often accentuated with gold details. These colors are frequently enhanced with small rhinestones and a matte finish for added flair.

The unique aspect of the coffin shape is that the nail bed and tip maintain the same width, while the middle section is shaped wider. This narrow-wide-narrow configuration creates an illusion of slender nail beds and fingers.

Unlike more niche trends like "bubble nails" or "aquarium nails," coffin nails are a mainstream trend embraced by everyday people. A quick glance at social media reveals that nearly half of all nail art submissions feature this coveted shape.

To achieve coffin nails, start with a standard square shape on a long or extended nail. Gradually file down the corners near the free edge to achieve the desired tapered look.

Why Are Coffin Nails Popular Now?

Coffin nails have surged in popularity thanks to the rise of nail art and increased accessibility. Until recently, creating coffin-shaped nails required sculpting with a nail form or modifying stiletto tips. However, the beauty industry now offers pre-shaped coffin tips, making the process quicker and more cost-effective.

How Long Are Coffin Nails?

For an elegant, tapered look, coffin nails should ideally be medium to long in length. 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 create, with additional time required for intricate nail art designs. For those short on time, coffin-shaped press-ons can be applied in under 10 minutes, offering a quick and convenient solution.

Depending on your lifestyle, a coffin set can last between two and six weeks. Over time, the sharp edges will naturally soften and round out. Here's an example of a graphic French tip coffin design. It's worth noting that due to their length and defined corners, coffin nails can be less manageable than rounded nails, but as People magazine points out, "it's the price you pay to be a baddie."