The Outdated Nail Shape You Don't Want To Be Caught Wearing In 2025 (Or Ever)
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Sorry duck nail fans, but we're so quacking happy to report the controversial shape is officially an outdated nail trend in 2025. We're not the only ones declaring them out either, as GlossGenius gave the style a dishonorable mention as the least favorite beauty trend of 2024. Ouch. The manicure look, which you may also know as the flare, describes a longer nail that fans out at the end (sometimes with a dip in the middle) to resemble a duck's foot.
Though it's important to feel comfortable and confident with your mani — and if duck nails make you feel that way, that's okay — it's extremely impractical. Sure, it's versatile and can be incorporated into countless designs and lengths, but the shape makes doing the simplest task, such as typing or applying contact lenses, difficult. The edges can be sharp and require regular filing to avoid injury too, while often getting caught on clothing and other materials.
As well as making life harder (and no one needs that) celeb and editorial manicurist Marisa Carmichael told Glam few people can actually pull the look off. "Duck nails or fan-shaped nails ... [do] nothing to aesthetically enhance the hands," she admitted.
What to try instead of duck nails
We don't want to trim the fun when we trim our nails, so if the duck style makes you feel your best, there's no real harm in sticking with it. But, if you're looking to be on trend and keep your manicure spicy, take inspiration from the hottest nail trends of winter 2025.
Two of the hottest shapes are stiletto (the super long, thin, pointed cut that resembles a shoe heel) or almond nails (think a cross between round and oval). These looks are more exciting than the classic oval or square. And, as celebrity nail artist Lisa Kon previously explained to Women, they will bring some versatility and elegance to your manicure.
Of course, if neither of those suit you, it may be time to consider cutting down some length. Although less unique, short, rounded nails can have health benefits. They don't break as easily as more intricate shapes, can make your fingers look longer, and don't require a lot of upkeep.