Trendlet: Coffin nails
Contemporary nail shapes are like math equations: Square + oval = squoval. Long + pointy = stiletto.
Contemporary nail shapes are like math equations: Square + oval = squoval. Long + pointy = stiletto.
The trendlet
Long + square = coffin. The newest style may sound morose - in the 1800s, "coffin nails" were slang for cigarettes - but the mini-squared-off fingertips in spring lilacs and corals are giving 2016 fingertips quite a mod look.
Where does it come from?
Long nails were trendy in the 18th century, when they were known as filberts. However, by the 1900s, after a decree from Queen Victoria, who found stiletto-shaped nails offensive, they were round and short.
In the 1930s, bottled nail polish became widely available, so the pretty and protected nails grew long again. Filberts came on the scene and were renamed stilettos after the high-heel- shoe style. Throughout the following decades, stars like Lucille Ball in the 1940s, Barbra Streisand in the 1970s, and Donna Summer in the 1980s helped long nails stay in fashion.
During the '90s, manicures outside the home became the norm as many women opted for acrylic nails with wide, square tips.
In 2011, Lady Gaga reintroduced the vintage stiletto nail in her Born This Way video. And by 2015, manicurists were squaring off those tiny tips, thanks to celebrity influences from Zendaya to Kylie Jenner.
Who's wearing them?
Women who have places to go but not much housework to do. Think Khloe Kardashian, Nicky Minaj, and Beyoncé.
Would Elizabeth wear them?
I might be persuaded to try the shorter, more-rounded coffin nail known as the ballerina file. However, deep in my heart, I'm a squoval girl.
Should you wear them?
I like the coffin-shape nails in nude hues. They are classy and trendy - and that equals long-nail nirvana.
ewellington@phillynews.com
215-854-2704