Best and Worst Haircuts for Every Face Shape

15 min read

Feathered Cut

Choosing the right haircut can transform your look and boost your confidence. Your face shape plays a crucial role in determining which styles will flatter you most. A well-chosen haircut can highlight your best features, balance your proportions, and give you a fresh, polished appearance.

Many women struggle to find a hairstyle that truly complements their face shape. What looks amazing on your friend might not work as well for you, simply because of the differences in your facial structure. Understanding your face shape and knowing which cuts suit it best can save you from disappointing salon visits and help you achieve the look you desire.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the characteristics of different face shapes and share the most flattering haircuts for each. You’ll learn how to identify your face shape and discover a range of options that will enhance your natural beauty. Whether you have an oval, round, square, heart-shaped, or diamond face, you’ll find valuable insights to guide your next haircut decision. Keep reading to unlock the secret to your perfect hairstyle.

Table Of Contents
  1. What's Your Face Shape?
  2. Which Haircuts Flatter Oval Faces?
  3. How Can Round Faces Rock Their Haircuts?
  4. What Haircuts Complement Square Faces?
  5. Which Styles Enhance Heart-Shaped Faces?
  6. How to Choose Haircuts for Diamond Faces?
  7. Your Perfect Cut: Confidence in Every Strand
  8. Frequently Asked Questions

What’s Your Face Shape?

Identifying your face shape is the first step in finding the most flattering haircut. Your facial structure plays a key role in determining which styles will enhance your natural features. Let’s explore the different face shapes and their unique characteristics.

Oval face shape characteristics

Oval faces are often considered the most versatile when it comes to hairstyles. How can you tell if you have an oval face? Look for these features:

  • Forehead slightly wider than the chin
  • Cheekbones are the widest part of the face
  • Face length is about one and a half times the width
  • Jawline is rounded rather than angular

If you have an oval face, you’re in luck! Most hairstyles will suit you well. However, to make the most of your balanced proportions, try styles that maintain the symmetry of your face.

Round face shape features

Round faces are characterized by soft curves and equal dimensions. Do you think you might have a round face? Check for these traits:

  • Cheekbones and face length have a similar measurement
  • Forehead and jawline are rounded
  • No sharp angles or defined corners
  • Face has an overall circular appearance

Women with round faces often want to create the illusion of length. Hairstyles that add height at the crown or fall below the chin can help achieve this effect.

Square face shape identifiers

Square faces are known for their strong, angular features. How can you recognize a square face shape?

  • Forehead, cheekbones, and jawline are approximately the same width
  • Jawline has a distinct square or angular shape
  • Hairline is often straight across
  • Face length and width are roughly equal

If you have a square face, you might want to soften your angular features. Hairstyles with soft layers or wispy ends can help balance the sharpness of your jawline.

Heart-shaped face traits

Heart-shaped faces are wider at the forehead and cheekbones, tapering to a narrower chin. Here’s what to look for:

  • Wider forehead that gradually narrows to a pointed chin
  • High, prominent cheekbones
  • May have a widow’s peak hairline
  • Chin is the narrowest point of the face

For heart-shaped faces, the goal is often to balance the width of the forehead with the narrower chin. Hairstyles that add volume at the jawline can help achieve this balance.

Diamond face shape markers

Diamond faces are similar to heart-shaped faces but with a few key differences. How can you tell if you have a diamond-shaped face?

  • Cheekbones are the widest part of the face
  • Forehead and jawline are narrower than cheekbones
  • Chin is pointed
  • Face may appear angular

If you have a diamond-shaped face, you might want to highlight your cheekbones while softening the angles of your face. Hairstyles that add width at the forehead and jawline can help create balance.

Still unsure about your face shape? Try this simple method: Pull your hair back and trace the outline of your face on a mirror using a washable marker. Step back and observe the shape you’ve drawn. Does it resemble any of the shapes we’ve discussed?

Remember, while these guidelines can be helpful, they’re not strict rules. Your personal style and preferences should always play a role in choosing your haircut. The most important thing is that you feel confident and comfortable with your chosen style.

In the next section, we’ll dive into specific haircut recommendations for each face shape, helping you find the perfect style to enhance your unique features.

Which Haircuts Flatter Oval Faces?

Oval faces are often considered the most adaptable when it comes to hairstyles. Your balanced proportions allow you to experiment with various cuts and lengths. Let’s explore some flattering haircuts that can enhance your oval face shape.

Long layers: A versatile choice

Long layers offer a classic look that suits oval faces perfectly. This style adds movement and texture to your hair without overwhelming your features. The layers can be customized to start at your cheekbones, chin, or collarbone, depending on your preference.

Why do long layers work so well? They create a soft frame around your face, highlighting your best features while maintaining the natural balance of your oval shape. For added volume, ask your stylist to incorporate shorter layers near the crown of your head.

Pixie cuts: Showcasing facial features

Thinking about going short? A pixie cut can be a bold and beautiful choice for oval faces. This style draws attention to your eyes and cheekbones, creating a striking look.

There are many variations of the pixie cut to choose from:

  • Classic pixie: Short all over with slightly longer hair on top
  • Textured pixie: Incorporates choppy layers for a more edgy look
  • Longer pixie: Features longer hair on top that can be styled in various ways

Remember, a pixie cut requires regular maintenance to keep its shape. Be prepared for frequent trims every 4-6 weeks.

Bob haircuts: Framing the face beautifully

Bob haircuts are timeless and versatile, making them an excellent choice for oval faces. The length of a bob can vary from just below the ears to grazing the shoulders.

A classic bob that hits at the jawline can accentuate your bone structure beautifully. For a more modern twist, consider an A-line bob, which is shorter in the back and gradually gets longer towards the front. This style adds dimension and can make your face appear slightly longer.

Side-swept bangs: Adding dimension

Want to change up your look without committing to a drastic cut? Side-swept bangs might be the answer. They add a soft, feminine touch to any hairstyle and can complement oval faces wonderfully.

Side-swept bangs work well because they create an asymmetrical element that adds interest to your face shape. They can be incorporated into various hairstyles, from long layers to bobs. When styling, use a round brush to blow-dry your bangs to the side for a polished look.

Lob (long bob): The perfect balance

The lob, or long bob, has gained popularity in recent years – and for good reason. This versatile cut typically falls between the chin and collarbone, offering the best of both worlds: the ease of a shorter style with the flexibility of longer hair.

For oval faces, a lob can be particularly flattering. It maintains enough length to soften your features while still providing a chic, modern look. You can style a lob straight for a sleek appearance or add waves for a more relaxed vibe.

Choosing the right haircut is about more than just face shape. Consider your hair texture, lifestyle, and personal style when deciding on a new look. Don’t be afraid to show your stylist photos of haircuts you like – this can help communicate your vision effectively.

Ultimately, the best haircut is one that makes you feel confident and beautiful. Whether you opt for long layers, a daring pixie, or something in between, your oval face shape provides a fantastic canvas for a wide range of stylish options.

How Can Round Faces Rock Their Haircuts?

Pixie Cut

Round faces have a charming softness that can be beautifully complemented with the right haircut. The key is to choose styles that add definition and create the illusion of length. Let’s explore some flattering options that will make your round face shine.

Asymmetrical bobs: Creating angles

Asymmetrical bobs are a fantastic choice for round faces. Why? They introduce angles to your look, which can help balance out the circular shape of your face. This cut is shorter on one side and gradually gets longer on the other, creating an interesting visual effect.

To style an asymmetrical bob:

  • Use a flat iron to create sleek, straight lines
  • Add some texturizing spray for a tousled, beachy look
  • Try a deep side part to emphasize the asymmetry

The uneven length of this cut draws the eye downward, making your face appear longer and slimmer.

Long layers with side parts: Elongating the face

Long layers paired with a side part can work wonders for round faces. This combination creates vertical lines that visually stretch your face shape. The layers add movement and texture, while the side part breaks up the symmetry of your round face.

When getting long layers, ask your stylist to start the layers below your chin. This placement helps maintain length while adding dimension to your hair. Experiment with different side part positions to find the most flattering look for your face.

Pixie cuts with volume on top: Adding height

Contrary to popular belief, short hair can look amazing on round faces – especially a pixie cut with volume on top. This style adds height to your head, which can make your face appear longer and more oval-shaped.

To maximize the effect of a voluminous pixie:

  1. Use a volumizing mousse on damp hair before styling
  2. Blow-dry your hair upwards, focusing on the roots
  3. Finish with a texturizing product to maintain the lift

Remember, the key is to keep the sides shorter and the top longer to create that vertical illusion.

Shoulder-length cuts with texture: Breaking up roundness

Shoulder-length cuts are versatile and can work well for round faces, especially when paired with plenty of texture. This length hits the sweet spot between too short (which can emphasize roundness) and too long (which can drag your features down).

Texture is crucial here. It adds movement and breaks up the roundness of your face. Consider asking for:

  • Choppy ends
  • Face-framing layers
  • Subtle undercut for added edge

These elements create visual interest and prevent your hair from lying flat against your face, which can accentuate its roundness.

Side-swept bangs: Softening facial features

Side-swept bangs can be a game-changer for round faces. They create a diagonal line across your face, which helps to offset its circular shape. Plus, they draw attention to your eyes and cheekbones, creating a focal point away from the roundness of your face.

When styling side-swept bangs, aim for a soft, natural look. Avoid cutting them too short – longer side-swept bangs tend to be more flattering on round faces. You can blend them into face-framing layers for a seamless look.

The beauty of these haircuts lies in their ability to enhance your natural features while creating the illusion of a more oval-shaped face. Don’t be afraid to mix and match elements from different styles to create a look that’s uniquely yours.

Remember, confidence is the best accessory you can wear. Whether you opt for an edgy asymmetrical bob or soft, side-swept bangs, wear your chosen style with pride. Your round face is beautiful, and these haircuts are here to highlight that beauty in the best possible way.

What Haircuts Complement Square Faces?

Short Haircut Square Face

Square faces are known for their strong, defined jawlines and angular features. Finding the right haircut can help soften these angles and create a more balanced look. Let’s explore some flattering styles that complement your face shape.

Soft layers: Softening angular features

Soft layers can work wonders for square faces. They add movement and texture to your hair, which helps to soften the sharp angles of your face. The key is to ask your stylist for layers that frame your face gently, starting around your cheekbones and continuing downward.

Why do soft layers work so well? They create a visual illusion that breaks up the squareness of your face. The varied lengths of hair falling around your face can make it appear less angular and more oval-shaped.

To style soft layers, try using a round brush while blow-drying to create gentle curves in your hair. This technique can further enhance the softening effect of the layers.

Long, wavy styles: Balancing facial proportions

Long, wavy hairstyles can be particularly flattering for square faces. The length helps to elongate your face, while the waves add softness to counterbalance your strong jawline.

Here are some tips for achieving beautiful waves:

  • Use a large-barrel curling iron for loose, natural-looking waves
  • Try the “beach waves” technique with a flat iron for a more relaxed look
  • Experiment with overnight heatless curling methods for damage-free waves

Remember, the goal is to create soft, flowing waves rather than tight curls. This will help maintain a balance between your hair and your facial features.

Textured pixie cuts: Adding femininity

Contrary to popular belief, short haircuts can look amazing on square faces. A textured pixie cut can add a touch of femininity while highlighting your strong features in a flattering way.

The key to a successful pixie cut for square faces is texture. Ask your stylist for:

  1. Longer layers on top
  2. Choppy, textured ends
  3. Soft, side-swept bangs

These elements will help to soften your angular features and add movement to your hair. When styling your pixie cut, use texturizing products to enhance the piece-y look and avoid sleek, flat styles that can emphasize the squareness of your face.

Side-swept bangs: Minimizing forehead width

Side-swept bangs can be a game-changer for square faces. They help to minimize the width of your forehead and create a diagonal line across your face, which can soften your angular features.

When getting side-swept bangs, ask your stylist to cut them at an angle, starting longer at the temple and gradually getting shorter towards the center of your forehead. This technique will create a flattering frame for your face.

Styling tip: Use a round brush to blow-dry your bangs to the side, creating a soft curve. This will enhance the softening effect and help the bangs blend seamlessly with the rest of your hair.

Lob with beach waves: Creating a softer look

A lob, or long bob, with beach waves can be an excellent choice for square faces. This versatile style typically falls between the chin and collarbone, offering a perfect balance of length and manageability.

The addition of beach waves to your lob can help to soften your angular features and add movement to your hair. To achieve this look:

  1. Apply a sea salt spray to damp hair
  2. Scrunch your hair and let it air dry, or use a diffuser
  3. Touch up with a curling wand if needed for more defined waves

The combination of the lob length and beachy texture creates a soft, feminine look that beautifully complements square faces.

Choosing the right haircut is about more than just face shape. Consider your hair texture, lifestyle, and personal style when deciding on a new look. Don’t be afraid to mix and match elements from different styles to create a haircut that’s uniquely you.

Your square face gives you a strong, classic beauty. These haircuts are designed to enhance your natural features while adding softness and balance. Whether you opt for long waves or a textured pixie, the right cut can help you feel confident and beautiful.

Which Styles Enhance Heart-Shaped Faces?

Heart-shaped faces possess a unique charm, with their wider foreheads and cheekbones tapering to a narrower chin. Finding the right hairstyle can accentuate your best features and create a balanced look. Let’s explore some flattering styles that will make your heart-shaped face shine.

Side-parted bobs: Balancing wider foreheads

A side-parted bob is a versatile choice for heart-shaped faces. This style cleverly draws attention away from a wider forehead, creating a more balanced appearance. How does it work? The asymmetry of the side part breaks up the width of the forehead, while the length of the bob adds volume around the jawline.

To style a side-parted bob, start by applying a volumizing mousse to damp hair. Blow-dry your hair using a round brush, focusing on creating volume at the roots. Once dry, use a flat iron to smooth out any frizz and create a sleek finish. Finally, apply a light-hold hairspray to keep your style in place throughout the day.

Long layers with side-swept bangs: Framing the face

Long layers paired with side-swept bangs offer a soft, romantic look that beautifully complements heart-shaped faces. This style works wonders by:

  • Softening angular features
  • Creating movement around the face
  • Balancing the width of the forehead

To maintain this style, regular trims are essential to keep your layers fresh and prevent split ends. When styling, use a large barrel curling iron to create loose waves, enhancing the layered effect.

Pixie cuts with longer top: Adding volume

Contrary to popular belief, short hair can look stunning on heart-shaped faces. A pixie cut with a longer top adds height and volume, elongating your face and drawing attention to your eyes. This style is particularly flattering as it balances out a wider forehead while accentuating your cheekbones.

Styling a pixie cut is relatively simple. Apply a texturizing product to damp hair and blow-dry, using your fingers to create lift at the roots. For added texture, use a small amount of pomade or wax to piece out the longer sections on top.

Shoulder-length cuts with waves: Softening chin area

Shoulder-length cuts with soft waves are an excellent choice for heart-shaped faces. This style adds fullness around the jawline, balancing out the wider upper face. The waves create a soft, feminine look that complements the natural contours of your face.

To achieve beachy waves:

  1. Apply a sea salt spray to damp hair
  2. Scrunch your hair and let it air dry
  3. Touch up with a curling wand if needed

Curtain bangs: Highlighting cheekbones

Curtain bangs have gained popularity in recent years, and for good reason. They’re particularly flattering for heart-shaped faces as they highlight your cheekbones while softening the forehead. This style of bangs parts in the middle and sweeps to either side, framing your face beautifully.

Styling curtain bangs can be a bit tricky at first, but with practice, you’ll master the technique. Use a round brush to blow-dry your bangs away from your face, creating a gentle curve. Finish with a light-hold hairspray to keep them in place without looking stiff.

Textured pixie cuts: Adding femininity

A textured pixie cut can add a touch of edginess while maintaining a feminine appeal. This style works well for heart-shaped faces by creating volume on top, which balances out the wider forehead. The textured elements soften the overall look, preventing it from appearing too harsh.

When styling a textured pixie, focus on creating piece-y definition. Apply a small amount of texturizing paste to your fingertips and work it through your hair, focusing on the ends. This will create separation and definition, enhancing the textured look.

Choosing the right hairstyle for your heart-shaped face is about finding a balance between accentuating your best features and creating harmony. Whether you opt for a chic bob, romantic long layers, or a daring pixie cut, the key is to feel confident and comfortable with your choice. Experiment with different styles to find what works best for you and your lifestyle.

How to Choose Haircuts for Diamond Faces?

Diamond-shaped faces are characterized by their angular features, with high cheekbones and a narrow forehead and jawline. Selecting the right haircut can highlight your best features while creating a balanced, harmonious look. Let’s explore some flattering styles that will make your diamond-shaped face shine.

Textured lob: Emphasizing cheekbones

A textured lob, or long bob, is an excellent choice for diamond faces. This versatile cut typically falls between the chin and shoulders, creating a perfect frame for your face. The textured layers add volume and movement, drawing attention to your cheekbones – one of your best features.

To style a textured lob, try these steps:

  1. Apply a volumizing mousse to damp hair
  2. Blow-dry using a round brush for added lift
  3. Create loose waves with a curling iron
  4. Finish with a texturizing spray for piece-y definition

The result? A chic, effortless look that accentuates your facial structure beautifully.

Side-swept pixie: Balancing facial features

Short hair can be stunning on diamond faces, and a side-swept pixie is no exception. This bold cut adds volume at the crown, balancing out your narrow forehead and jawline. The side-swept fringe softens angular features, creating a more rounded appearance.

Styling a side-swept pixie is relatively simple. Apply a small amount of styling cream to damp hair, then blow-dry while using your fingers to direct the hair to one side. For added texture, use a flat iron to create subtle bends in the longer pieces.

Long layers with face-framing pieces: Softening angles

Long layers with face-framing pieces offer a versatile option for diamond faces. This style adds softness to your angular features while maintaining length. The face-framing layers can be customized to highlight your best features – whether that’s your cheekbones, eyes, or jawline.

How can you maintain this style? Regular trims are key to keeping your layers fresh and preventing split ends. When styling, use a large barrel curling iron to create loose waves, enhancing the layered effect and adding movement around your face.

Chin-length bob: Highlighting jaw structure

A chin-length bob can be a game-changer for diamond faces. This classic cut hits right at your jawline, drawing attention to this area and creating the illusion of a wider lower face. The result? A more balanced overall appearance.

To style a chin-length bob:

  • Start with a volumizing shampoo and conditioner
  • Apply a heat protectant before blow-drying
  • Use a round brush to create volume and slight inward curl at the ends
  • Finish with a light-hold hairspray to maintain the shape

This sleek style not only looks polished but also requires minimal daily styling – perfect for busy women.

Wispy bangs: Adding softness to forehead

Wispy bangs can add a touch of softness to diamond faces, especially around the forehead area. These light, airy bangs help to balance out the width of your cheekbones and add a feminine touch to your overall look.

Styling wispy bangs doesn’t have to be complicated. After washing, apply a small amount of lightweight styling cream to your bangs. Use a small round brush to blow-dry them, directing the airflow downward to prevent frizz. For a more relaxed look, you can also let them air dry and then use your fingers to separate and style them.

Choosing the right haircut for your diamond-shaped face is about finding a balance between accentuating your best features and creating harmony. Whether you opt for a chic lob, a daring pixie, or soft layers with bangs, the key is to feel confident and comfortable with your choice.

Remember, these suggestions are just starting points. Your hair texture, lifestyle, and personal preferences all play a role in finding your perfect hairstyle. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different looks or consult with a professional stylist who can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific features and needs.

The best haircut is one that makes you feel like the best version of yourself. With these options for diamond faces, you’re well on your way to finding a style that not only flatters your face shape but also expresses your personality and fits your lifestyle.

Your Perfect Cut: Confidence in Every Strand

Finding the ideal haircut for your diamond-shaped face is an exciting journey of self-expression. From textured lobs that emphasize your stunning cheekbones to side-swept pixies that balance your features, there’s a world of options to explore. Each style offers a unique way to highlight your best features while creating a harmonious overall look.

Remember, the most important aspect of any hairstyle is how it makes you feel. Whether you choose long layers for a soft, romantic vibe or a chic chin-length bob for a polished appearance, your confidence will shine through. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles, consult with a trusted stylist, and most importantly, have fun with your hair. After all, it’s an extension of your personality and a powerful tool for self-expression.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the key features of a diamond-shaped face?
A: Diamond-shaped faces have high cheekbones, a narrow forehead, and a narrow jawline, creating an angular appearance.

Q: Why is a textured lob a good choice for diamond faces?
A: A textured lob emphasizes the cheekbones, adds volume and movement, and creates a balanced frame for diamond-shaped faces.

Q: How can a side-swept pixie benefit diamond faces?
A: A side-swept pixie adds volume at the crown, balancing out the narrow forehead and jawline, while softening angular features.

Q: What’s the advantage of long layers for diamond-shaped faces?
A: Long layers with face-framing pieces soften angular features and can be customized to highlight your best features, such as cheekbones or eyes.

Q: How does a chin-length bob enhance diamond faces?
A: A chin-length bob draws attention to the jawline, creating the illusion of a wider lower face and balancing overall facial proportions.

Q: What purpose do wispy bangs serve for diamond-shaped faces?
A: Wispy bangs add softness to the forehead area, help balance the width of cheekbones, and provide a feminine touch to the overall look.

Q: How often should I trim my hair to maintain these styles?
A: Regular trims are important, especially for styles like long layers. The frequency depends on your hair growth, but every 6-8 weeks is typically recommended.

Q: Can I pull off short hair with a diamond-shaped face?
A: Yes, short hairstyles like side-swept pixies can look great on diamond faces, adding volume at the crown and balancing facial features.