Do you wonder if coffin nails and ballerina nails are essentially the same? Well, it depends on who you ask. There’s been a huge debate discussing the difference between coffin and ballerina nails. There are some who assert that coffin and ballerina shaped nails are identical. But some nail art professionals will tell you they are different.
It is the same among many professionals. Those who believe that there is a difference between coffin and ballerina nails would offer the following observation.
Coffin nails are sharper. And ballerina nails are more curved on the sides. Basically, the primary difference between coffin and ballerina shaped nails lies in the technique used for their creation. There aren’t really clear definitions. One artist specializing in nail designs may use the terms ‘coffin’ and ‘ballerina’ interchangeably, while another might distinguish them as unique manicures.
Essentially, coffin nail designs and ballerina nail designs appear quite similar. Only a nail technician perfectionist will tell you differently.
Coffin vs Ballerina Nails Shape
When we talk about nail shape, let’s discuss this comparison between coffin vs ballerina nails. Below is a brief synopsis encapsulating both coffin nail designs and ballerina nail designs.
Ballerina Nails
This is the signature nail shape used by Kylie Jenner. She is a huge fan of ballerina nails and promotes them on Instagram and social media whenever she can. Basically, they are stiletto nails, but with a square rather than a pointy tip.
Why are they called ballerina nails? Because the shape resembles a ballerina’s slipper.
Coffin Nails
A nail expert that makes a difference between these two shapes will tell you this, coffin nails are ballerina nails, but they tend to be of a longer length.
The shape is pointed, similar to stiletto shaped nails, but with a squared-off blunt end. It makes it look like the shape of a coffin.
Difference Between Ballerina And Coffin Nails
So, what is the difference when you talk about coffin vs ballerina nails? If you look closely, the shapes in its filing are softer and more curved. You can notice this tip works best on nails size three maximum.
Ballerina nails must belong and have a rectangular shape at the top. A nail expert achieves the nail shape by filling the nail straight and leaving the original shape on the sides. He/she can also reduce it a bit to give a triangle look but without one of its tips. The type of toe stimulates the shape of a ballerina slipper.
Coffin nails are quite similar. Yet, there are some differences. The side part of the ballerina nail shape is quite rounded. With coffin nails, you get a straight side shape. Simply put, the coffin-shaped nail’s side shape does not look like the ballerina-shaped nails.
When it comes to manicures, nails need to be acrylic or gel so they can be coffin-shaped nails. Yet, if you have naturally long nails, you can also do it.
People choose ballerina nails or long coffin nails because it elongates the fingers and makes them look delicate. The shape is quite popular with nail extension methods. Simply put, it can be difficult to maintain the length and shape with a natural nail.
How To Do Ballerina Nails At Home?
Short ballerina nails are always trendy. They are never getting old. Ballerina nails look pretty with any baby color or French manicure. You do not need to go to a nail salon to get them.
To get these nails at home, you must prepare the nail first. But before that, clean your hands with antibacterial gel and leave the nails without any polish.
Now, place the false nail. Use any material you like. As we said before, it can be either gel nails or acrylic nails.
Once the false nail is firmly in place, it is time to continue shaping the nail. We said before that ballerina nails have a rectangular shape.
The nail shapes are thicker at the bottom and thinner at the top. This gives it a slightly triangular shape towards the sides.
Once you get the correct shape, it is time to decorate your nails. Paint it in a single tone, or paint it in several colors. You can use a matte, glossy, or frosted tone. After you have painted your nails, you can add accessories, including pendants or diamonds.
French-style manicure is one of the most popular and demanding when it comes to ballerina nails. It looks amazing in different combinations.
If you want to be more creative, you can try some styles with geometric shapes or combine different colors on each nail.
How To Make Coffin Nails At Home
The first few steps are basically the same. You prepare the nail by cleaning it with antibacterial gel and removing any nail polish. Add false nails, either acrylic or gel, and then it is time to shape your coffin nails.
File the sides of the nail into a pointed shape. Just remember, don’t go too narrow. Once you are happy with the length shape, file the tip into a straight, blunt edge.
You can use your nail clippers to get an ultra-straight shape and then soften with a nail file if needed.
There is no difference whether your nails are long or short. On shorter nails, you can create a softer and less graduated version. But remember, it is a nail shape that is usually reserved for longer nails.
How To Wear Coffin Or Ballerina Nails
Now that we know the coffin vs ballerina nails differences and how to make them at home, let’s talk about styles and decorations. How to wear coffin nails? How to wear ballerina nails? Here are some ideas.
Doodle Nails
Because coffin and ballerina nails are usually longer, they are a great option to doodle your favorite shapes.
Sky Blue
This color has gained popularity in the past few years as a great spring option and summer option. Sky blue is a color that will add freshness to your look. But remember, it might limit your outfit options.
Almost Bare
If you like to keep things pared back and natural, just give it a delicate accent for an interesting twist. Almost bare is a great option if you want to style your outfit with colorful ideas.
Ombre
Let’s try a fashion trend that has remained popular for quite some time. Ombre is a technique that became popular as a hair idea and then moved to the manicure world. We suggest ombre orange, swapping in color-colored tips in place of your usual French manicure, and ombre the shade down into a neutral base. This is a great summer style.
Mini Ballerinas
Mini ballerinas is a subtle way to nod the trend without fully committing to it. Perfect for women with shorter nails that still want to give the ballerina shape a try.
Neon Green
Do you want to go bold? Well, there is no better way than going neon green. It is a full stand-out color that will make you glow.
Picasso Nails
Because ballerina and coffin nails are of longer length, they are a perfect canvas. If you want to get a bit artistic, this nail shape is your best bet.
Ombre French
If you are not quite ready to get back into the original ombre trend of the 2000s, try this one. It is a noncommittal French mani.
Faded Peach
Because of the longer length, the ballerina shape is great for accentuating the color. Give it a try with faded peach color.
Short Coffin
We said before that you can have coffin nails no matter your nail length. If you prefer to keep your nails shorter, this tapered shape will add an elongated look to your fingers. Even a minimal design will look good on your short nails.
Glow In The Dark Nail Polish
Let’s finish off with the glow-in-the-dark nail polish. It is a great option for those ladies that want to pop and stand out.
When To Avoid Coffin Nails And Ballerina Nails?
We have to remember that coffin and ballerina nails are not as practical as other shapes. Because of their length, they might make it more challenging to do some activities.
For example, playing sports is almost impossible with these nails. Typing quietly on a computer is another big challenge.
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