Saying it in French, one's mouth does different things. In English, I find it impossible to say "
Nicole" with a smile; the corners of my mouth just automatically droop. Also, I dislike most spondees. I like
Nicola, and where I live there's little chance of encountering a male
Nicola, so if it came to using a
Nicol- name, it'd be
Nicola for sure.
I would use the
Nicky spelling, but doesn't the nickname-owner pretty much decide?