52 Latest Shag Haircuts Based On Your Face Outline

From classy to edgy, make a great style statement with these gorgeous and unique haircuts.

Reviewed by Favour Akinjiyan, Makeup Artist Favour Akinjiyan Favour AkinjiyanMakeup Artist facebook_icontwitter_iconinsta_icon
Written by Anjali Sayee, BTech Anjali Sayee BTech linkedin_icon Experience: 7 years
Edited by Shatabdi Bhattacharya, BSc Shatabdi Bhattacharya BSc linkedin_icon Experience: 2.5 years
Fact-checked by Anu Pallavi, BA Anu Pallavi BA linkedin_icon
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Layer after layer after layer – no, we are not talking about cake but something equally exciting: shag haircuts!

Most of us believe that there are two major short hairstyles – the bob and pixie haircuts. But those that like to steal the spotlight know how seductive a good shag hairstyle can be! Depending on the shape of your face (or face outline), you can choose how you’d like your layers to be – either choppy ends, wispy tips, or feathered tails. With its many layers, the shag looks super cool, even messy, and is easy to maintain. Keep reading to check our top 52 uber-chic shag hairstyles.

protip_icon Before You Get Started
  • Medium-to-long shags are perfect for oval faces since they soften the lower half of your face and create a symmetrical look.
  • Shag haircuts are low-maintenance because they can be air-dried and still maintain their look.
  • Use a curl cream or hair mousse to add volume and definition to your hair.
  • Invest in sulfate-free shampoos and hair masks once a week to help maintain your shag haircut.

Why Choose A Shag Haircut?

Shag haircuts give out an effortlessly cool vibe, thanks to the soft layers, which can be styled in so many ways! It’s a great choice of haircut for people who want something edgy but easy to maintain at the same time. Let’s dive deeper into the reasons for choosing a shag haircut:

  • The layered, textured style adds natural volume and movement to the hair.
  • Shag haircuts are easy to style, requiring minimal upkeep for a tousled, casual look.
  • It works with various hair types, from straight and wavy to curly, making it adaptable for everyone.
  • The choppy layers create a trendy, bold appearance with a retro flair.
  • Shag haircuts often feature face-framing layers that can enhance your facial features and add dimension.

Now that we have shared why this trendy hairstyle is a good idea, let’s check out the section below for some style inspiration.

Key Takeaways

  • Shags are layered haircuts that look effortless and uber-chic and are also easy to maintain.
  • You can style your shag haircut curly, straight, or with side bangs to elevate your look.
  • Bring out your inner wild child with these trendy haircuts and frame your face with choppy ends, wispy tips, or feathered tails.

52 Super Fun Shag Haircuts

Favour Akinjiyan, a Certified Makeup Artist, advises, “Shags may be low maintenance, but remember, cutting your shag often is key to maintaining a polished appearance.” Here are a few shag haircut ideas you may want to check before booking your next salon appointment.

1. Fiery Red Short Shag

Fiery Red Short Shag
Image: Shutterstock

A perfect style for those who prefer short haircuts over long haircuts! The layers from the crown to the back create an illusion of volume and look good on those with thin hair. The brightness of the red color pops and makes the cut even more edgy and attractive.

2. Punk Shag

Punk Shag
Image: Shutterstock

Channelize the rocker-chic vibe in you with this razor-sharp, jet black punk shag hairstyle. This messy haircut look exudes a free-spirited vibe. However, you can also apply gel to the front bangs and the side layers and finger-comb them to give a damp, shaggy appearance.

3. Coily Shag With Caramel Highlights

Coily Shag With Caramel Highlights
Image: Shutterstock

Curly shags are in and popular these days. Coily shags, on the other hand, are rare. Some caramel highlights near the bangs pull our focus to the face and the curls framing them. This a perfect hairstyle for you if you’re tired of tying your hair in braids.

4. Wavy Shaggy Bob

Wavy Shaggy Bob
Image: Shutterstock

This is a look anyone can pull off without much effort. Let some long fringe frame the sides of your face and keep the styling clean. Let your short, wavy locks do the talking.

5. Light Ash-Blonde Messy Shag

Light Ash-Blonde Messy Shag
Image: Shutterstock

Sharp edges in the front and sides and a light ash-blonde shade give this messy shag a somewhat uptown vibe! If you don’t prefer veering into the dramatic platinum shag look, this shade can be your in-between. The color emphasizes your facial features, and the sexy bangs complete the look.

6. Shag With Curtain Bangs

Shag With Curtain Bangs
Image: Shutterstock

Medium shag haircuts go very well with curtain bangs. This is a more refined version of the bold and edgy shag. The curtain bangs, styled with a middle parting and flipped away from the face, give a fresh and airy vibe. This classic look is definitely here to stay for a long.

7. Simple Shaggy Lob

Simple Shaggy Lob
Image: Shutterstock

This middle-parted lob shag is your best friend if you have trouble maintaining long haircuts. It is a style is for women of all ages who want to explore the shag territory minus the dramatic changes.

8. Flirty Shag

Flirty Shag
Image: Shutterstock

An elegant twist to the shag hairstyle – the locks are wispy, and the bangs are split in the middle and curled outwards, giving it a more refined and voluminous look. This is the perfect hairstyle for thin hair.

9. Bright Blonde Shag

Bright Blonde Shag
Image: Shutterstock

Like its name, the blonde color of the hair is what catches the eye. The forehead-covering bangs are separated, adding an easygoing charm to this short shag hairstyle.

10. Pearl Platinum Frizz Shag

Pearl Platinum Frizz Shag
Image: Shutterstock

A frizzy shag in a pearl platinum shade gives more of a punk-rock vibe than any other color. A modern take on the shag, this is perfect for those who struggle daily with their frizzy hair.

11. Long Wavy Shag With Curtain Bangs

Long Wavy Shag With Curtain Bangs
Image: Shutterstock

Who said shaggy hairstyles look good only on short and medium-length hair? This long shag with face-framing layers is a softer version of the traditional shag. It requires minimal effort and styling but adds a lot of movement and texture to the hair.

12. Steel Blue Short Shag

Steel Blue Short Shag
Image: Shutterstock

Love short shag hairstyles and trendy hair colors? This is your signal to get your hair styled in a very short layered shag with long fringes on the side and some bangs to cover your forehead. The selling point of this hairstyle is the striking steel blue shade.

13. Mullet Bob Shag

Mullet Bob Shag
Image: Istock

What happens when you mix three hairstyles into one? Well, this hairstyle came out as a thing of beauty. A new take on bob, mullet, and shag, experimenting with hair has never been more fun.

14. Blow Out Layered Shag

Blow Out Layered Shag
Image: Shutterstock

If voluminous, blown-out hair is your go-to, then this shag hairstyle is for you. It’s dramatic and showcases your length while framing your face in delicate layers. Get some ash-blonde highlights and you’re good to go!

15. Long Indigo Shag With Bangs

Long Indigo Shag With Bangs
Image: Istock

A shaggy haircut on long, straight locks is all about layering. They break the hair surface to give a textured look without making the hair look flat. Adding choppy, wispy bangs give you some extra points and if you are bold enough, go for this bright indigo hair dye!

16. Sunset Shag

Sunset Shag
Image: Shutterstock

Is your favorite color red? If it is, then this hairstyle should be on your list. A cute shoulder-length shag with bangs in different hues of sunset is as attractive as it is playful.

17. Bubblegum Princess Shag

Bubblegum Princess Shag
Image: Shutterstock

As its namesake, flaunt your cute shag in blue and pink colors. Getting your hair done in just one shade is a thing of the past. This cut highlights the blue shade as it is just on one side at the front, not hidden underneath all the pink.

18. Ice Wolf Shag

Ice Wolf Shag
Image: Istock

Mixing two similar hairstyles brings out the best of both. This wolf cut-meets-shag look provides edginess to the icy blonde hair. If you have straight hair, the layers will provide a voluminous look.

19. Shag With Flipped Bangs

Shag With Flipped Bangs
Image: Shutterstock

These flipped-out bangs sure look stunning when styled on dark, mid-length bob shag. The slightly twisted and teased sides add more swing and bounce to the hair. Edgy is one of the go-to qualities of getting a shag, and this look masters it perfectly.

20. Pink Curly Shag

Pink Curly Shag
Image: Shutterstock

Want to style your bright pink curly hair? Go shag! It is one of the most versatile hairstyles, if styled correctly, it compliments any face shape and size. The crimped curls add body to the hair, and the textured bangs draw all the attention to your eyes.

21. Long Copper Choppy Shag

Long Copper Choppy Shag
Image: Istock

Look at those wispy, flipped-out layers! This long shag hairstyle is a perfect example of the smooth bangs-to-layers transition. The glossy, choppy, bouncy locks look voluminous and vivid.

22. Grunge Ponytail With Micro Bangs

Grunge Ponytail With Micro Bangs
Image: Photo by Gabriela Guerino on Pexels

If you think sporting ponytails with shag haircuts is impossible, you are wrong. A short, high ponytail adds a playful vibe to the edgy shag. Leave out your micro bangs to frame your forehead and gather half your hair in a ponytail at the back.

23. Shag With Messy Bangs

Shag With Messy Bangs
Image: IStock

Words like cute and shag should go hand-in-hand. This perfect summer shag with cute layered bangs is styled to frame your face and give more volume to your hair. Be carefree and set your hair free!

24. Straightened Shag With Curtain Bangs

Straightened Shag With Curtain Bangs
Image: IStock

Ever wondered what would happen if you straightened your shag? Well, it looks professional and sexy. This is a stunning look for you to master while you achieve everything your heart desires.

25. Wispy Shag

Wispy Shag
Image: IStock

IThis sexy and playful wispy shag will help you achieve the perfect, confident look without much effort. Slay each look you want, from formal to party looks, with this hairstyle.

26. Mullet Shag

Mullet shag haircut
Image: Shutterstock

This shag cut is inspired by the classic mullet. The mullet can be traced back all the way to the 6th century. Many women started sporting the mullet, which eventually turned into the mullet shag.

protip_icon Trivia
Popular hairstylist Paul McGregor created the shag haircut. He styled it for actress Jane Fonda in the early 1970s for the movie ‘Klute.’

27. Straight Shag

Straight shag haircut
Image: Shutterstock

If you don’t want too many layers, opt for this shag cut. The top layer of this haircut is cut a little below the crown and colored in a light ginger shade. The rest of the hair is colored a deeper shade of red. You can also see a brown tint at the bottom that adds dimension to this look.

28. The Soft Shag

The soft shag haircut
Image: Istock

If the sharp layers of the classic shag don’t vibe with your style, opt for this shag with softer layers and feathered ends. It looks more natural and youthful. Add some light highlights to give your hair a nice beachy look.

29. Curly Shag

Curly shag haircut
Image: Shutterstock

Curly hair can make shag-cut layers look effortless. These curly layers fall over one another seamlessly. The feathered bangs accentuate the hair texture by adding a nice contrast to the curls.

30. Blue Shaggy Ends

Blue shaggy ends haircut
Image: Shutterstock

Sharp edges can make for an edgy haircut. Pair those sharp edges with a multi-layered shag cut. The blue dimension of this hair look showcases the hair texture perfectly. The sharp ends also help frame your face.

31. Pink And Purple Shag

Pink and purple shag haircut
Image: Shutterstock

I’m sure you’ve thought of coloring your hair at least once in your life. Coloring your hair can enhance the layers of your shag cut. This colorful shag is the perfect symbolism for feminine energy and playfulness.

32. Wavy Shag

Wavy shag haircut
Image: Shutterstock

A shag cut can seriously enhance your wavy hair. Do note how the ends are pointed outward to create a dynamic style. This haircut is recommended for anyone who wants to add more volume to their hair.

33. Divine Shag

Divine shag haircut
Image: Shutterstock

Sweet and spicy notes make for a heavenly combination. Cranberry and cinnamon shades can take your locks up to a perfect ten. Though blunt bangs usually don’t suit fine-textured hair, they look good when paired with a thick shag cut.

34. Modern Shag

Modern shag haircut
Image: Shutterstock

When you’re working and have a busy schedule, styling your hair becomes more of a task than a hobby. Consider getting this modern straight shag cut. This shag haircut will look great on you especially if you have thick hair.

35. Flowy Shag Haircut

Flowy shag haircut
Image: Shutterstock

This shade of blonde is a warm-toned color. This hair shade will suit fair women with a warm undertone. The thin front bangs accentuate the volume of the rest of the hair.

36. Cool-Toned Shag

Cool-toned shag haircut
Image: Shutterstock

This messy hairstyle and mushroom blonde color combo looks wild. Light brown hair with gray and blonde highlights makes for a gorgeous cool-toned hair look. It’s the messiness of the hair that makes this shag cut look chic and young.

37. Deep Side-Swept Bangs With Shag Cut

Deep side-swept bangs with shag haircut
Image: Shutterstock

Back in the day, the shag cut was all about sharp ends and accentuated layers. Now, it’s more about style. In this shag cut, the layers are concentrated at the top and cut soft. This is the perfect haircut for anyone with thin hair.

38. Parted Bangs

Parted bangs haircut
Image: Shutterstock

Here’s a modern twist to the mullet. The mullet was known for being wavy. Styling it straight made it perfect for women. You can see the crisp layers clearly this way. The mullet also used to be short at the front and long at the back. In this modern mullet, the hair is slightly longer at the sides than at the back. The parted bangs add some great dimension to the face and help in framing it.

39. Thick Shag

Thick shag haircut
Image: Shutterstock

This thick shag is all about layers and bangs. These softly cut layers are great for accentuating your jawline. The messy, uneven bangs work to make you look younger.

40. Sideburns Shag

Sideburns shag haircut
Image: Shutterstock

Sideburns were never my thing because I have always associated Elvis Presley with them. But, I have to admit, these sideburns take this shag cut to a whole new level. They add a nice elvish touch to this look!

41. Wavy Shag

Wavy shag haircut
Image: Shutterstock

Wavy hair adds volume and dimension to your tresses. But, when not styled right, it can look like a total mess. The best way to style it is in shallow shag layers and straight-cut blunt bangs.

42. Messy Curls Shag

Messy curls shag haircut
Image: Shutterstock

Who doesn’t want that “just rolled out of bed” messy hair look? I think a curly shag is the best way to achieve that look. The curls in this look are not perfect coiled, which adds to their perfection.

43. Emo Shag

Emo shag haircut
Image: Shutterstock

Let’s face it: we all wanted to get a cool emo haircut in our teen years. The emo shag cut is still a teen favorite. Multiple layers and a dash of brightly colored highlights are this hairstyle’s winning features.

44. Hollywood Wavy Shag

Hollywood wavy shag haircut
Image: Istock

Obtaining those perfect Hollywood waves may seem like a difficult task, but there are some easy ways to achieve this look. Just roll the ends around a round brush and blow dry them. This technique is much easier to do (and even looks better) on a shag haircut.

45. Fine Ends

Fine ends shag haircut
Image: Shutterstock

If you have fine-textured hair, this is the best way to add volume to it. Ask your hairstylist to give you a shag cut and feather out the ends. The feathered ends will make your hair look more voluminous.

46. Flicked Out Ends

Flicked out ends shag haircuts
Image: Shutterstock

This is the perfect hairstyle if you want to look a few years younger. The layers are spread all over but more predominant at the front. The blonde highlights add a bright pop of color. But, keep in mind that you will have to style your layers every morning to make them look perfect.

47. Lob Shag

Lob shag haircut
Image: Istock

If you are an older woman who does not want too many layers, consider this lob shag. These soft layers blend in with each other seamlessly without making the brown ginger curls stick out at awkward angles.

48. Wild Child Shag

Wid child shag haircut
Image: Unsplash

Thick brown hair with multiple layers at the side and longer layers at the back – this has to be the perfect wild child hairstyle. Thick chocolate brown hair is accentuated with multiple layers all over the head in this hair look. Notice how the layers at the back are longer. So youthful!

49. Blonde Dimensional Shag

Blonde dimensional shag haircut
Image: Shutterstock

A dimensional hair color look is a great way to add texture and volume to your locks. The layers also add definition and bounce to your tresses. This look is perfect for autumn and winter.

50. Baby Blunt Bangs

Baby blunt bangs haircut
Image: Shutterstock

Baby bangs look great, but they are not for everyone. If you have an oval face, go for it! The messy layers add texture to the hair and help in framing your face as well. They also make your face appear slender and long.

51. Sleeker Shag

A model with a sleeker shag posing for the camera
Image: Shutterstock

A sleeker shag is a slightly tame version of a shag hairstyle where the layers are more sleek and have a subtle wind-swept look to it instead of being downright messy. This style suits finer hair types on broader face shapes. Side-swept or curtain bangs can give broader face shapes a narrow and chic look.

52. Side-Parted Shag

Demi Lovato sporting a side-parted shag
Image: Shutterstock

Whether you have a shaggy pixie or long shaggy layers, a side-parted look is going to elevate your look and add an awe-inspiring definition to your face, especially if you have an oval, round, heart, or square face shape. Bold steak highlights and dark eye makeup are just the additional elements to pair it with for an elegant and edgy look.

protip_icon Trivia
The shag hairstyle became popular after being worn by various celebrities like Joan Jett, David Bowie, David Cassidy, Rod Stewart, Mick Jagger, and Florence Henderson in the early 1970s.

While shag haircuts look ever-so-stunning, maintaining them can be a little tricky if you don’t know the hacks. So, to help you out, we have shared some easy styling tips in the next section. Scroll down.

Styling Tips For Shag Haircut

From using specific products to making simple routine changes, these easy hair tips will ensure your shag haircut always looks amazing.

  • Apply a sea salt spray to damp hair to achieve beachy waves and create a relaxed, tousled look.
  • To boost volume without weighing your hair down, use a lightweight mousse and focus on the roots.
  • Use a blow-dryer to dry your tresses to enhance the natural texture and achieve a carefree look.
  • Use a texturizing spray or cream to define the choppy layers and give the haircut more dimension.
  • Schedule trim sessions every 4-6 weeks to maintain the freshness of the layers and prevent split ends.

Infographic: All About Shag Haircuts

A shag cut is a versatile hairstyle that can go with different looks. It is cool and easy to maintain. There are a few factors you should keep in mind when getting a shag haircut. Make sure you consult your hairstylist. We have also listed a few celebrities with shag cuts to give you the inspiration you are looking for.

Check out the infographic below to know more.

all about shag haircut (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Well, folks, now that you know that apart from pixie and bob haircuts, shag hairstyles can help you rock your short hair, take your inspo from the styles mentioned above and steal the show. If you wish to let your inner child out, these hairstyles are what you should try. They will not only give you that showstopper look but will also lift your mood given the instant transformation to your hair. And you can add your own spin to let your personality shine too.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are shags out of style?

No, shag haircuts are very much in style, with celebs like Billie Eilish sporting variations of the hairstyle. You can try any style that suits you ranging from the Korean-inspired hush cut to a simple shaggy lob.

What is the difference between a shag cut and a wolf cut?

Wolf cut can be considered a type of shag cut. It choppier ends with short bangs (think Courtney Cox in Scream 3 bangs). The wolf cut has been described as resembling a shag version of the mullet.

How often should I cut my shag?

Since shags are relatively a low maintenance style, you can cut them once every two or three months. However, if you want them looking fresh, get a trim every 4-8 weeks depending on your shag length.

Does a shaggy bob have layers?

Yes, a shaggy bob does have multiple layers.

What face shapes are best suitable for shag haircuts?

Shag haircuts suit various face shapes, especially oval, round, and square faces. The layers and texture here can add balance and frame the face, further enhancing facial features and creating a flattering look.

Illustration: Latest Shag Haircuts Based On Your Face Outline

shag haircuts

Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team


Check out this video for 30 stunning ideas for shag haircuts for women! Find inspiration and zero in on the perfect look for you.

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Favour Akinjiyan
Favour AkinjiyanMakeup Artist
Favour is a certified makeup artist with 5 years of experience and a lover of all things science and beauty. She is also the founder of Favoured Beauty, a brand committed to creating an inclusive community in the beauty space and developing science-backed solutions for hyperpigmentation.

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Anjali Sayee
Anjali SayeeAssociate Editor
Anjali is an associate editor at StyleCraze. She specializes in hairstyles and hair and skin care and has written over 200 articles in these domains. She has 7 years of experience, and her philosophy about hair and skin care is simple: if you love and care for it, it will be healthy.

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Shatabdi Bhattacharya
Shatabdi BhattacharyaAssociate Editor
Shatabdi is an associate editor and an alumnus of Lady Brabourne College, Kolkata, where she honed her skills and developed a deep understanding of the world of literature and expression. She has worked with various organizations and websites operating in different industries, ranging from education to lifestyle, showing her adaptability and drive to learn.

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Anu Pallavi
Anu PallaviBeauty & Lifestyle Writer
Anu is a beauty and lifestyle writer and a graduate of Amity University, Noida, where she refined her writing skills and cultivated her deep passion for the field. She pursued the Beauty Technician Training Program at Maquillage Beauty Institute, which has equipped her with practical skills in various beauty treatments.

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