In the world of haircuts, face-framing styles have become a defining trend of the 2020s. From Jennifer Aniston to Sabrina Carpenter, celebrities have embraced face-framing cuts for their ability to enhance facial features and refresh a look. Whether paired with long, layered hair or short, chic cuts, these styles draw attention to your face, making them perfect for anyone looking to appear more youthful. We spoke with Michelle Cleveland, celebrity hairstylist and founder of Hair Addict Salon, who revealed how face-framing layers can not only flatter but also help you achieve a more youthful appearance. Here’s a roundup of the most flattering cuts to consider if you want to shed a few years.
The Shag: A Youthful Edge
The shag cut, often mistaken for the mullet, is a retro-inspired look that continues to be a favorite among celebrities like Zendaya, Michelle Obama, and Vanessa Hudgens. With its choppy bangs and short layers, the shag cut exudes a “young, fun, and edgy” vibe, according to Cleveland. This cut doesn’t follow strict rules—face-framing layers can be customized to any length, and for a softer approach, you can opt for a butterfly shag, where the layers start short and gradually get longer. If you’re looking for even more inspiration, consider the Goldie shag, a nod to film star Goldie Hawn, or the edgy lob shag popularized by Billie Eilish.
Curtain Bangs: Flattering for All Ages
For those who aren’t keen on full layers, curtain bangs are a perfect introduction to face-framing styles. These long, flowing bangs fall around the face like curtains and can be styled with both long and short hair. Cleveland praises the curtain bang for its simplicity, adding softness to the face without the commitment of a full cut. Whether tucked behind the ears or grazing the brows, curtain bangs are incredibly versatile and suitable for all face shapes. However, keep in mind that bangs require more maintenance than longer layers, so they might not be for everyone.
Pairing Layers and Curtain Bangs for a Light, Youthful Look
If you want the best of both worlds, consider combining face-framing layers with curtain bangs. This pairing softens the face and creates a light, airy feel that can make you look younger. The layers and bangs can either blend seamlessly or be more defined, depending on your preference. For those who want a clearer distinction, opting for shorter bangs that hit the brows can give a sharper look, while longer, flowing bangs will seamlessly merge into the rest of the layers.
The Bixie: A Short, Youthful Power Cut
Short hair can also feature face-framing pieces, and the bixie cut—a hybrid of the pixie and bob—is the perfect example. This cut combines the edginess of a pixie with the length of a bob, giving more room for styling while still maintaining a youthful, fresh look. Cleveland notes that styling is key for the bixie, especially if you want to embrace its playful vibe. Decide whether to wear it straight, wavy, or curly, as this will influence how your stylist cuts your layers. A bixie can be worn by anyone who loves a free-spirited, fun look, as seen on celebrities like Halle Berry, Demi Lovato, and Florence Pugh.
Long Layers: A Timeless, Soft Look
For those who love long hair but still want to try face-framing layers, longer layers are a perfect option. Cut at the chin or just below, long layers create a soft, timeless look that is both elegant and effortless. Cleveland suggests that this style is particularly flattering when curled, as the layers help create volume and body. This variation is also low-maintenance compared to shorter layers, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a chic yet manageable style.
Face-framing cuts, whether short or long, are an excellent way to refresh your look and instantly appear younger. With so many styles to choose from, from the shag to the bixie, you’re sure to find the perfect cut that complements your face shape and personal style.
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