Shag haircuts continue to be in vogue in 2025! Below, I’ve compiled images of some of the top and most contemporary styles to achieve this popular cut. I’ve also shared some of my top tips on how to select the perfect one that suits you. But first…
What Exactly is a Shag Haircut?
A shag haircut is a flexible style featuring numerous layers, particularly around your face. Developed by hairstylist Paul McGregor in 1971 for Jane Fonda, this timeless cut has made a significant comeback (source).
Today, stylists tailor shags to accommodate hair of every length, texture, and thickness.
If you have shorter hair, the layers will be choppy and highly volumizing. This is particularly effective if you have fine hair.
With medium-length shags, you enjoy the advantages of both approaches. The mid-length ends will elongate your face, bringing it closer to an oval shape, considered the ideal. The layers will add volume and provide numerous styling options.
Are you flaunting long hair? This allows you to request even more layers! A long shag haircut is ideal for achieving maximum texture on any hair type.
The classic shag is also ideal for waves and curls. You can expect reduced frizz and balanced volume with this style.
This hairstyle can enhance your look regardless of face shape, age, texture, or hair type.
The Ultimate Shag Haircut for Your Face Shape
Your face shape plays a significant role in determining the most flattering shag haircut for you. That’s why it’s essential to identify your face shape first.
It’s also vital to keep in mind that we all have distinctive genetics, which significantly influence our facial features (source). Chances are you won’t fit perfectly into the textbook description of your face shape. And that’s perfectly fine!
Follow these recommendations based on whatever is the closest match. You can choose two if you can’t decide. Most importantly, consult your hairdresser to validate your findings before proceeding with the cut. This ensures you’ll achieve a beautiful shag.
Here are my top suggestions on selecting a shag according to your face shape:
- Diamond: The goal is to harmonize your cheekbones with your chin and forehead. A short shag mullet is an excellent choice if you’re up for something daring. Opt for a medium or long shag with chin-length layers for a classic appearance.
- Heart-Shaped: Minimize volume at the crown and temples to create the illusion of an oval face shape. Any length of shag can be flattering, as long as you request face-framing layers. Bangs are also a fantastic option for your face—see the next section for more details!
- Oval: Your face shape is often regarded as the ideal. So, all you need to consider is your hair type and preferred maintenance level. Feel free to ask your stylist for their insights if you find it difficult to choose.
- Round: A haircut that elongates your facial features will work best. A medium or long shag with substantial volume on top is the simplest way to achieve this look.
- Square: Your face shape emphasizes rounding and softening features. Choose a shag with minimal volume at the top. Instead, aim for face-framing layers beginning around your cheekbones. You’re free to opt for any length you desire.
- Rectangle: The goal here is to create the impression of an oval face shape. The easiest method for you is a chin-length shag. Request layers that provide plenty of movement and bounce around your jawline. This combination works wonders for softening and rounding your features.
How to Care for a Shag Hairstyle
Another great aspect of shag hairstyles is their low maintenance requirements. At the same time, you can consult with your stylist for a bold or edgier version to express your unique style.
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Gallery of Stunning Shag Haircuts Inspiration:
Now you have a clear idea of the shag haircut variations that suit you best. Browse through these beautiful shag images below to find inspiration before your next trip to the salon!
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Choosing the Right Bangs for Your Shag Hairstyle
[caption id="attachment_157459" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Instagram @spellbound_manes
Determining if bangs will complement your shag haircut can be challenging—I understand, I’ve experienced it myself. Your face shape and how much maintenance you’re willing to commit to are key factors.
Here are my top suggestions for selecting a fringe that enhances your shag while aligning with your facial structure and maintenance preferences.
- Diamond: You want fullness around your forehead to balance your features. Curtain bangs or a heavy, side-swept fringe achieve this and draw attention to your eyes. Ask for layers or framing to help blend your fringe, and you can go 2-3 months between bang trims.
- Heart-Shaped: Bangs are an excellent choice for balancing the width of your forehead. And any variation will suit your face. If you opt for a full fringe, ask your stylist to cut them just above your eyebrow. With curtain or side bangs, ask for layers and wispiness. With these tips, you can go two months between bang trims.
- Oval: You have so many choices with this face shape. A center part with no bangs will give your shag a classic feel. Side bangs or a classic full fringe will also be very flattering. But remember, a full fringe will need more frequent trims.
- Round: Since the goal is to make your face look longer, avoid full bangs on your forehead. Side bangs or curtain bangs will add length to your face. Bonus: Both options only need a trim every 1-2 months.
- Square: Wispy side bangs will help soften and round your facial features. When paired with many face-framing layers, this option can look gorgeous for 3-4 months before you need a bang trim.
- Rectangle: You can wear any style of fringe you like, so long as the ends are soft and wispy. A blunt edge on your bangs will only make your face look more angular. Ask for your bangs to be layered and wispy. With this trick, you shouldn’t need a bang trim for up to 2 months.
Considerations for Your Hair Type
Your facial structure should be your primary factor when selecting a shag haircut. However, your hair type follows closely behind in importance.
Keep your hair texture in mind as you browse through the images in the gallery below. You may find a curly, bouncy, effortlessly styled shag appealing, but if your hair is fine and straight, achieving that look daily might require significant effort.
Tips for Styling a Shag Haircut
What I love most about shags is how they can be tailored to fit various hair types and lifestyles. With my professional styling tips below, you can easily turn every day into a great hair day.
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