With its choppy layers, undone volume, and face-framing fringe, the modern Shag offers versatility and attitude, making it a go-to choice for those craving a low-maintenance yet fashion-forward look.
Below, we will look at some of the Shag hairstyles, what a Shag style is and how our virtual hairstyler can help you determine which Shag style will work best for you.
What Is A Shag Haircut?
A Shag haircut made its debut in the 70s, during the rock n roll era, with inspiration from people like Mick Jagger. This cut is best defined by the layers cut in your hair.It is characterized by choppy ends, feathered or textured layers, and often includes a fringe or bangs. Originally popularized in the 1970s, the cut was designed to create movement and volume, giving hair a slightly tousled, edgy look.
The layers are typically more pronounced around the crown and face, tapering into thinner ends, which helps the hair fall more naturally and messily. While it works on most hair lengths and textures, the Shag is especially loved for its effortless, lived-in vibe that flatters a wide range of face shapes.
Today’s modern Shag often includes curtain bangs and softer layering, making it more wearable and versatile than ever. It has been designed to be styled forward and onto the face area.
Who Will Suit A Shag Haircut?
A Shag haircut can be versatile if the layers have been cut to suit your specific face shape; however, there are a few things you want to keep in mind.A Shag is naturally round in nature, meaning that it will softly frame and soften the edges of angular face shapes and longer layers in the front can help elongate a face shape as well. With that being said, people with a round face shape can also benefit from this cut.
If you have a round face shape, you want to avoid a classic fringe and go for layers that are slightly longer than your face. It will help elongate your face and ensure that it does not look squished around the top of your face. If you have naturally wavy or curly hair, then a Shag will suit you the best. Texture is significant in a cut like this; the wavy style gives you more volume and ensures your hair does not fall flat around your face and neck.
If your hair is naturally straight, you can still pull off a Shag look, but you will need to add more styling time to your look to ensure that you get the desired effect and full benefit from the Shag cut.
Inspiration For Your Shag Haircut
Shoulder-Length, 70s Shag Haircut
This is the Shag that we all grew up with loving! The layers in this style are jagged, giving you an edgy feel and resonating the vibe of rock 'n' roll. The bangs in this style are blunt cut, providing a modern twist and ideal for those with a high forehead.
These bangs are ideal for those with a strong jawline, but the only downside to this hairstyle is that glasses will not suit these bangs. Adding the different colored highlights will also define your color and make it look more modern.
Jawline-Length Shag Haircut With Flicks
This Shag is easy for you to maintain and is ideal for those who do not have long to style their hair in the morning. If you are looking for something you can easily blow-wave and flick out to give your hair some definition, this is the style for you!
For those who have naturally straight hair, this Shag will work best for you because the flick outs will hold their shape better. The side-swept bangs in this style are ideal for those who are slightly younger and want something to modernise the Shag look.
Pixie Cut Inspired Shag Haircut
A pixie cut is trending at the moment and has made its way to runways, red carpets and formal events worldwide. This cut and style will mash two trends together and is something you are going to want to try!
The back and sides of this hairstyle have been layered and then blended in with the rest of her hair. The side-swept bangs help to balance the overall look while drawing attention to her stunning facial features.
The subtle waves in this style ensure that her hair has volume and movement, and is ideal for those with thinning hair, as it will give the illusion that your hair is thicker and fuller than it naturally is.
Even though this style is easy for you to maintain, you will need to trim it every 4 weeks to ensure the Shag stays in shape and your ends stay healthy.
Curled Chin-Length Shag Haircut
If you have a bob and want to add some volume to it, cutting these layers around the back and sides of your face will help balance out the overall look of the bob and give you more volume. You can style with a curling iron and some product to ensure the curls stay in shape.
This Shag is best suited for those with naturally wavy or curly hair and is perfect for those with an oval or oblong face shape.
Long Shag Haircut With A Fringe
If you have long hair, do not worry! There is a Shag look for you as well. This long hairstyle has been cut with jagged layers throughout the front and back of her hair. The long fringe slightly covers the model’s eyes, giving you an edgy vibe while softening the edges of her forehead and eye area. This fringe is ideal for those with a round, oval, triangle, or heart face shape.
It is a hairstyle that will suit all occasions and is easy for you to style at home. This is a style that will work best for those who have naturally straight or slightly wavy hair. If you are looking to add some definition and height to your overall look, then this is the ideal Shag for you to try out!
We have shared with you just a few Shag hairstyles and cut inspiration for you to try out! Our website has plenty more for you to choose from!
You can head to our virtual hairstyler and see which one of these 70s inspired Shag looks will work best for you.