A great haircut isn’t just about trends—it’s about balance, proportion, and enhancing your natural features. One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a haircut is your face shape. The right style can highlight your strengths, soften sharper angles, and bring harmony to your overall look. Here’s a guide to help you choose the best haircut based on your face shape.
1. How to Identify Your Face Shape
Stand in front of a mirror with your hair pulled back and trace the outline of your face on the mirror using a lip liner or washable marker. Then, compare it to the following face shapes:
Oval: Forehead slightly wider than chin, balanced proportions, rounded jawline.
Round: Equal width and length, soft and curved edges.
Square: Strong, broad forehead and jaw with straight sides.
Heart: Wider forehead, prominent cheekbones, narrow chin.
Long (Oblong): Face is noticeably longer than it is wide.
Diamond: Narrow forehead and jawline with wide cheekbones.
2. Best Haircuts for Each Face Shape
Oval Face Shape
Best styles: Lucky you—oval faces are the most versatile!
Try:
* Long layers
* Soft waves
* Blunt bobs
* Pixie cut
Avoid: Hair that falls flat on your face; it hides your natural balance.
Round Face Shape
Goal: Add height and elongation.
Try:
* Long layered cuts
* Side-swept bangs
* High top-knots or updos
* Asymmetrical bobs
Avoid: One-length short bobs and full, blunt bangs—they emphasize roundness.
Square Face Shape
Goal: Soften strong jawlines and create curves.
Try:
* Wispy bangs
* Layered shoulder-length hair
* Wavy shags
* Side parts
Avoid: Super straight blunt cuts and center parts—they exaggerate angles.
Heart Face Shape
Goal: Balance the forehead and soften the chin.
Try:
* Chin-length bobs
* Side-swept bangs
* Long layers starting below the jaw
* Curls or waves at the bottom
**Avoid:** Short bangs and too much volume at the crown.
Long/Oblong Face Shape
Goal: Add width and reduce vertical length.
Try:
* Full fringes or curtain bangs
* Shoulder-length cuts
* Curls or waves
* Layered styles with volume on the sides
Avoid: Very long, flat hair with a center part.
Diamond Face Shape
Goal: Highlight cheekbones while softening the edges.
Try:
* Side-swept bangs
* Medium-length layers
* Face-framing waves
* A classic bob
Avoid: Too much volume on the sides; it can make the face appear wider.
Final Thought
There’s no one-size-fits-all haircut—but knowing your face shape gives you a great foundation to make informed, flattering style choices. Whether you’re going for bold transformation or a subtle refresh, let your face shape be your guide and wear your haircut with confidence.
