Choosing the right haircut can transform your look and boost your confidence. While trends and celebrity styles are tempting, finding a cut that complements your face shape can enhance your natural features and create a harmonious look. Celebrity hairstylists share their expert advice on selecting the perfect haircut for your face shape.
Find Your Face Shape
Understanding your face shape is the first step in choosing a flattering haircut. According to hairstylist Jennifer Nast, analyzing the proportions of your forehead, cheekbones, and jawline will help you determine your face shape. You can also trace the outline of your face in a mirror to get a clearer view.
Haircuts for Oval Face Shape
Characteristics: Oval faces are longer than they are wide, with a softly rounded jawline and broad cheekbones. This versatile shape can pull off many styles.
Long Layers: Enhance natural symmetry with layers that add movement without adding width.
Bob Cut: A classic bob highlights the jawline and cheekbones while maintaining balance.
Side-Swept Bangs: Frame the face elegantly without disrupting the oval proportions.
Avoid: Center parts, which can emphasize the length of the forehead.
Haircuts for Round Face Shape
Characteristics: Round faces feature softer angles and are wider than they are long, with full cheeks and a softer jawline.
Long Layers with Volume on Top: Adds height and elongates the face, balancing the roundness.
Asymmetrical Bob: Longer in the front and shorter in the back, this style adds angles and elongates the face.
Pixie Cut with Volume: A pixie cut with added volume on top can create the illusion of a longer face.
Avoid: Short, blunt cuts that emphasize roundness.
Haircuts for Square Face Shape
Characteristics: Square faces have a strong, angular jawline and a broad forehead, with similar width across the forehead, cheekbones, and jawline.
Soft, Wispy Bangs: Soften the angular features and create a more rounded appearance.
Long, Soft Layers: Adds movement and reduces emphasis on the squareness of the face.
Side-Parted Styles: Breaks up the symmetry and adds softness to the strong jawline.
Avoid: Blunt edges and hard lines that accentuate the angularity.
Haircuts for Diamond Face Shape
Characteristics: Narrow at the forehead and jawline with prominent cheekbones.
Chin-Length Bob: Adds width to the narrow jawline and balances facial proportions.
Layered Pixie Cut: Adds fullness around the temples and highlights the cheekbones.
Side-Swept Bangs: Softens the angles and reduces the prominence of the cheekbones.
Avoid: Cuts that accentuate the narrow forehead and jawline.
Haircuts for Heart Face Shape
Characteristics: Wider forehead with a pointed chin and high cheekbones.
Long, Side-Swept Bangs: Balances the wider forehead and highlights the eyes and cheekbones.
Chin-Length Bob: Adds width to the lower part of the face and balances the broader forehead.
Wavy Lob (Long Bob): Adds volume around the jawline, balancing the heart shape.
Avoid: Styles that emphasize the width of the forehead or the narrowness of the chin.
Frequently Asked Questions
What else is important when determining my face shape?
Consider your hairline, bone structure, and overall proportions, including the length and width of your face and head.
Do other factors, like hair color, affect how a haircut looks?
Yes, color can enhance a haircut. Lighter shades with dimension can soften and complement your cut.
When might face shape not be as critical in choosing a haircut?
Personal style, hair texture, and lifestyle can also play significant roles. If you have unique features or a strong personal preference, these may influence your choice more than face shape alone.
Choosing a haircut tailored to your face shape can make a significant difference in how well you carry your look. By focusing on your face’s proportions and characteristics, you can select a style that enhances your natural beauty and suits your personal style.