Hey there, beautiful! Belle Hathaway here, and today I’m beyond excited to talk about one of my all-time favorite hair trends—the short shag haircut. Now, I know what you’re thinking: what do you know about hair?” Well, let me tell you, after years of working on set and doing countless makeovers, I’ve learned that hair and makeup go hand in hand. They’re like best friends who bring out the best in each other.
I still remember the first time I fell in love with the shag haircut. I was assisting on a fashion shoot in New York, and the hairstylist created this absolutely stunning textured shag on one of the models. The way it moved, the effortless vibe it gave off—I was mesmerized. From that moment on, I became obsessed with understanding how different hairstyles complement different face shapes and how they can completely transform someone’s overall look.
The shag haircut has made such a powerful comeback, and honestly, I couldn’t be happier about it. There’s something so liberating and confident about a woman who rocks a short shag. It’s edgy yet feminine, structured yet carefree, and it works on just about everyone when you find the right variation.
So grab your favorite cup of coffee (or tea, if that’s your thing), get cozy, and let’s dive into these 15 incredible short shag haircuts that could be your next signature look!
The Classic Textured Shag
What It Is
The classic textured shag is where it all began, friends. This is the foundation of all shag haircuts—a beautifully layered cut that typically falls between chin and shoulder length, featuring choppy, feathered layers throughout. Think of it as organized chaos in the best possible way. The layers are cut at different lengths to create movement and dimension, giving your hair that coveted “I woke up like this” vibe that we all secretly work hard to achieve.
What I love most about this style is its versatility. It’s got enough texture to look interesting and modern, but it’s not so extreme that you can’t wear it to a professional setting. I’ve done makeup for so many clients with this cut, and it never fails to frame the face beautifully, making my job easier because the hair is already doing half the work of creating that perfect silhouette.
Best For
This cut works wonderfully for women with medium to thick hair who want to add movement and reduce bulk. If you’ve got naturally wavy or slightly curly hair, you’re going to absolutely love how this cut enhances your natural texture. I’ve seen it work magic on oval and heart-shaped faces, as the layers create a lovely balance and draw attention to the eyes and cheekbones.
It’s also fantastic for anyone who wants to add volume to fine hair. The layering technique creates the illusion of thickness, which is something I always appreciate when I’m working with clients who feel their hair is too flat or lifeless.
How to Style It
Here’s the beauty of the classic shag—it’s incredibly low-maintenance. Start with damp hair and apply a volumizing mousse from roots to ends. Use your fingers to scrunch the product into your hair, encouraging your natural texture to come through. If you’re blow-drying, flip your head upside down for extra volume at the roots. I’m talking serious lift here!
For a more polished look, you can use a round brush to direct the layers away from your face. But honestly, some of the best shag styles I’ve seen are air-dried with just a bit of texturizing spray. The key is embracing imperfection. Those pieces that stick out a little? That’s not a mistake—that’s character. Finish with a light-hold hairspray, and you’re good to go.
The Choppy Pixie Shag
What It Is
Now we’re getting into the bold territory, and I’m here for it! The choppy pixie shag is a shorter variation that combines the structure of a pixie cut with the playful, layered texture of a shag. We’re talking short sides and back with longer, piecey layers on top. This cut is for the woman who’s ready to make a statement and isn’t afraid to shake things up.
I’ve had the privilege of working with several clients who took the plunge and went for this cut, and the confidence boost is real. There’s something about cutting your hair short that feels like shedding old skin and stepping into a new version of yourself. Plus, from a makeup perspective, this cut really opens up the face and allows your features to shine.
Best For
This is perfect for women with fine to medium hair who want maximum volume and texture without a lot of styling time. If you have strong facial features—like defined cheekbones or striking eyes—this cut will showcase them beautifully. It’s particularly flattering on oval, heart, and diamond-shaped faces.
I always tell my clients that this cut requires confidence more than anything else. You’re putting yourself out there, and that boldness is absolutely stunning. It’s also ideal for women with an active lifestyle who don’t want to spend forever on their hair in the morning.
How to Style It
The choppy pixie shag is surprisingly easy to style, which is probably why I see so many busy women gravitating toward it. After washing, apply a small amount of styling cream to damp hair. Use your fingers to work it through, creating separation and definition in those choppy layers.
If you want to add some height on top, blow-dry with your fingers, lifting the roots as you go. For a more tousled, edgy look, let it air-dry about 80% of the way, then use a small amount of pomade or wax to piece out the layers and create texture. The beauty of this cut is that it looks amazing whether you style it sleek and polished or messy and undone. Versatility for the win!
The Curly Shag
What It Is
Oh, this one holds a special place in my heart! The curly shag is designed specifically for naturally curly or wavy hair, and it’s absolutely gorgeous. This cut features layers that are cut to enhance and define your natural curl pattern rather than fight against it. The layers are strategically placed to remove bulk while maintaining the hair’s natural bounce and movement.
I grew up in Savannah where the humidity is no joke, and I saw so many women struggling with their curly hair, trying to straighten it or tame it into submission. The curly shag celebrates your natural texture instead of hiding it, and that philosophy aligns perfectly with everything I believe about beauty—it’s about amplifying what makes you unique, not covering it up.
Best For
This cut is a dream for women with naturally curly or wavy hair who want a low-maintenance style that works with their texture instead of against it. It’s especially flattering on round and square face shapes because the volume on top and the face-framing layers create vertical lines that elongate the face.
If you’ve been heat-styling your curls for years and you’re ready to embrace your natural texture, this is your sign. I’ve watched so many women discover or rediscover their natural curl pattern with this cut, and the transformation is always beautiful—both physically and emotionally.
How to Style It
Curly hair requires moisture, friends. After washing with a sulfate-free shampoo, apply a generous amount of leave-in conditioner while your hair is soaking wet. Then add a curl-defining cream, scrunching it into your hair from the ends up.
Here’s a technique I learned from a hairstylist friend: the “plopping” method. After applying your products, place a microfiber towel or cotton t-shirt on a flat surface, flip your head upside down, and lower your curls onto the fabric. Wrap it up and leave it for 15-20 minutes. This helps your curls dry in their natural pattern without frizz.
Once you remove the towel, either air-dry or use a diffuser on low heat. Don’t touch your hair while it’s drying—I know it’s tempting, but resist! Once it’s completely dry, you can scrunch out any crunchiness and fluff the roots for volume. A little argan oil on the ends adds beautiful shine without weighing down your curls.
The Blunt Shag Bob
What It Is
The blunt shag bob is where modern meets vintage, and the result is stunning. This style features a blunt, one-length perimeter (usually around chin to jaw length) with shaggy, textured layers throughout the interior. It’s like the sophisticated older sister of the traditional shag—structured enough to look polished, but with enough texture to keep things interesting.
I love this cut because it offers the best of both worlds. You get the clean, sharp lines of a blunt bob, which creates a strong silhouette, combined with the movement and dimension of shaggy layers. It’s edgy without being too punk rock, and classic without being boring.
Best For
This cut works beautifully on most hair types, but it really shines on straight to slightly wavy hair where that blunt perimeter can create a strong statement. If you have a long or oval face, this cut is incredibly flattering because the blunt line creates width and the layers add dimension.
It’s perfect for the woman who wants a professional, put-together look that still has personality. I’ve done makeup for executives, entrepreneurs, and creative professionals with this cut, and it always strikes that perfect balance between polished and cool.
How to Style It
The key to nailing this look is enhancing the contrast between the blunt perimeter and the textured interior. Start by blow-drying your hair smooth with a round brush, pulling the ends under to create that classic bob shape. Once it’s dry, use a flat iron or curling iron to add some bends and waves to the interior layers.
Here’s my trick: don’t make the waves too uniform. Alternate the direction—some pieces curled toward your face, some away—to create that perfectly imperfect texture. Finish with a texturizing spray, running your fingers through to break up the waves and create separation. The result should look effortlessly cool, like you didn’t try too hard but somehow look amazing anyway.
The Shaggy Long Lob
What It Is
The shaggy lob is basically the Goldilocks of haircuts—not too short, not too long, but just right. This style typically falls between the collarbone and shoulders, featuring layers and texture throughout. It’s longer than a traditional bob but shorter than what most people consider “long hair,” and the shaggy layers give it movement and dimension.
What I appreciate about this cut is how universally flattering it is. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve been on set and seen this haircut on models, actors, and everyday women, and it looks stunning on all of them. It’s like the little black dress of haircuts—classic, versatile, and always appropriate.
Best For
Honestly? This cut works for almost everyone. It’s particularly great for women who are transitioning from long hair to short and aren’t quite ready to commit to a dramatic chop. The length is long enough to still pull into a small ponytail or half-up style, but short enough to feel fresh and modern.
If you have fine hair, the layers add much-needed volume and movement. If you have thick hair, the layers help remove bulk and make styling easier. It’s flattering on all face shapes, though I find it particularly stunning on square and rectangular faces because the soft layers balance out angular features.
How to Style It
The shaggy lob is wonderfully versatile when it comes to styling. For a casual, everyday look, apply a sea salt spray to damp hair and let it air-dry, scrunching occasionally to enhance texture. The result is that beachy, lived-in look that’s so popular right now.
For something more polished, blow-dry smooth with a paddle brush, then use a large-barrel curling iron to add loose waves. I like to take large sections and wrap them around the iron, holding for just a few seconds to create soft, gentle bends rather than tight curls.
One of my favorite quick styles is the messy half-up. Pull the top section back into a small ponytail or twist, leaving some face-framing pieces out. It’s easy, it’s cute, and it works for everything from running errands to date night.
The Asymmetrical Shag
What It Is
Ready to turn heads? The asymmetrical shag is for the woman who isn’t afraid to stand out. This cut features uneven lengths—typically one side is noticeably longer than the other—combined with shaggy, textured layers throughout. It’s bold, it’s modern, and it’s absolutely eye-catching.
I remember being on a photo shoot where the model had this cut, and everyone on set couldn’t stop talking about how cool it looked. The asymmetry creates visual interest and movement, and it photographs beautifully from every angle. As someone who works with faces all day, I can tell you that this cut creates stunning lines and draws attention exactly where you want it.
Best For
This cut works best on straight to wavy hair where the asymmetry is most visible and impactful. It’s particularly flattering on square and round faces because the diagonal lines created by the asymmetry help elongate and slim the face.
This is definitely a statement cut, so it’s perfect for creative types, trendsetters, or anyone who wants to express their individuality through their hair. It requires regular trims to maintain the shape, so keep that in mind. But if you’re someone who loves that fresh-from-the-salon feeling, this could be your perfect match.
How to Style It
The asymmetry is the star of this show, so you want to style in a way that showcases it. Blow-dry your hair smooth, directing the shorter side toward your face and the longer side behind your shoulder. This creates a beautiful sweep that highlights the asymmetry.
For added texture, use a flat iron to create subtle waves in the longer section. The contrast between the sleek shorter side and the textured longer side is stunning. A shine serum on the ends keeps everything looking healthy and polished.
When styling, resist the urge to tuck both sides behind your ears—that defeats the whole purpose! Let that asymmetry do its thing. I promise it looks amazing.
The Wispy Shag
What It Is
The wispy shag is all about softness and femininity. This cut features feathery, delicate layers that create a light, airy feel. Unlike the choppy shag which has more defined, piece-y layers, the wispy shag has softer, more blended layers that create a romantic, ethereal vibe.
This is one of my personal favorites for creating a soft, approachable look. When I’m doing makeup for weddings or romantic photo shoots, this is the kind of haircut that complements soft, natural makeup beautifully. There’s something so pretty and delicate about it.
Best For
This cut is gorgeous on women with fine to medium hair. The wispy layers create the illusion of volume without adding actual bulk, which is perfect if your hair tends to fall flat. It’s incredibly flattering on heart and oval-shaped faces because the soft layers frame the face beautifully without overwhelming delicate features.
If you’re someone who loves a feminine, romantic aesthetic, this is your cut. It’s also wonderful for women who want to soften strong or angular features. The wispy layers create a halo of softness around your face that’s absolutely lovely.
How to Style It
The wispy shag is all about gentle, soft styling. After washing, apply a lightweight volumizing mousse to damp hair. Use a round brush while blow-drying, rolling the brush through the layers to create soft curves and movement.
For the wispy effect, use a large-barrel curling iron on low to medium heat, taking random sections and curling them in different directions. The key is to not make it too perfect—you want soft, loose waves that blend together. Once you’re done curling, let your hair cool, then run your fingers through it gently to soften and blend the waves.
Finish with a very light mist of flexible-hold hairspray. You don’t want anything too stiff or crunchy—the goal is movement and softness. A tiny bit of shine serum on the ends adds a beautiful finishing touch.
The Rock Roll Shag
What It Is
Now we’re talking attitude! The rock ‘n’ roll shag is edgy, bold, and full of personality. This cut typically features heavy layers, lots of texture, and often includes choppy bangs or face-framing pieces. It’s inspired by classic rock icons and has that cool, rebellious vibe that never goes out of style.
I’ve always been drawn to this cut because it represents a certain kind of confidence and self-expression that I deeply admire. It’s for the woman who knows who she is and isn’t afraid to show it. Plus, it looks absolutely killer with bold makeup—think smoky eyes and a nude lip, or a bold red lip with minimal eye makeup.
Best For
This cut works beautifully on medium to thick hair that can handle the heavy layering and still maintain volume and body. It’s particularly stunning on oval and diamond-shaped faces. If you have strong, defined features, this cut will complement them perfectly rather than trying to soften them.
This is ideal for women with a bold personal style who aren’t afraid to stand out. If your wardrobe includes leather jackets, band t-shirts, or anything with an edge, this haircut will fit right into your aesthetic. It’s also great for naturally textured or wavy hair that has a bit of personality on its own.
How to Style It
The rock ‘n’ roll shag is all about texture and volume. Start with a volumizing powder or spray at the roots to create lift. Blow-dry your hair roughly with your fingers, encouraging volume and messiness rather than trying to make it perfect.
Once dry, use a texturizing paste or pomade to piece out the layers. Don’t be afraid to really work the product through, creating separation and definition. For extra edge, you can use a flat iron to create a few strategic bends or flips.
The finishing touch? Tousle it with your fingers, maybe add a little more texturizing spray, and embrace the chaos. This cut should look a little undone, a little rebellious—that’s the whole point. I love finishing the look with a bold lip color for maximum impact.
The Layered Fringe Shag
What It Is
The layered fringe shag combines the texture and movement of a classic shag with the addition of bangs—and not just any bangs, but beautifully layered, piece-y fringe that blends seamlessly into the rest of the cut. The bangs can be worn straight across, swept to the side, or parted in the middle, depending on your preference.
I’ve noticed that adding bangs to a shag cut completely transforms the overall look. It adds a focal point and frames the face in such a flattering way. When I’m doing makeup on someone with this cut, I love playing up the eyes because the fringe naturally draws attention to that area.
Best For
This cut is fantastic for women who want to disguise a larger forehead or balance out a longer face shape. The fringe creates a horizontal line that shortens the appearance of the face, while the shaggy layers add width and volume where needed.
It works on most hair types, but if you have very thick, coarse hair, make sure your stylist thins out the fringe appropriately so it doesn’t look too heavy. This cut is perfect if you want to try bangs but aren’t ready for the commitment of blunt, heavy fringe—the layered, piece-y nature of these bangs grows out more gracefully.
How to Style It
The fringe is the star here, so let’s start with that. Blow-dry your bangs first while the rest of your hair is still damp, using a round brush to create a soft curve. This prevents them from drying weird or sticking straight out (we’ve all been there).
For the rest of the hair, follow your preferred shag styling method—whether that’s textured and messy or smooth and polished. The key is making sure the bangs blend nicely with the rest of the cut. If your fringe starts to separate into chunks, use your fingers to blend and piece them out for a more natural look.
A little secret I learned: if your bangs start looking greasy before the rest of your hair (which happens to a lot of people), use a tiny bit of dry shampoo just on the fringe to refresh it without washing your entire head.
The Shaggy Mullet
What It Is
Yes, the mullet is back, but it’s not what you’re thinking! The modern shaggy mullet is a cool, contemporary take on the classic “business in the front, party in the back” style. This version features short, textured layers around the face and crown, with longer layers in the back. The shag element adds softness and movement throughout, making it less severe than the mullets of decades past.
I’ll be honest—when I first saw this trend coming back, I was skeptical. But then I started seeing how modern stylists were interpreting it, and I completely changed my mind. The shaggy mullet, when done right, is edgy, cool, and surprisingly versatile.
Best For
This cut works best on women with straight to wavy hair where the contrast between the shorter front and longer back is most visible. It’s particularly flattering on oval and heart-shaped faces. If you have fine hair, this cut can actually work in your favor because the shorter front layers create volume while the longer back prevents the style from looking too sparse.
This is definitely for the trendsetters, the risk-takers, the women who like to push boundaries. If you’re bored with conventional styles and want something that makes a statement, the shaggy mullet delivers.
How to Style It
The beauty of the shaggy mullet is its versatility. For a casual look, apply texturizing spray to damp hair and let it air-dry, scrunching occasionally. The natural texture and the contrast between lengths create visual interest without much effort.
For a more styled look, blow-dry the front sections smooth while encouraging volume at the crown. The back can be left textured and piece-y or straightened for a sleeker finish. I love using a small amount of pomade to define the shorter layers around the face and separate the longer pieces in the back.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with this cut—wear it slicked back, push it to one side, add some waves. The shaggy mullet can adapt to your mood and the occasion.
The Retro Shag
What It Is
The retro shag takes inspiration from the iconic styles of the 1970s—think volume, feathered layers, and that quintessential “big hair” aesthetic, but updated for modern sensibilities. This cut features lots of layers throughout, with particular emphasis on creating volume at the crown and around the face. It’s glamorous, it’s nostalgic, and it’s absolutely stunning.
Growing up, I remember seeing photos of women from this era and being mesmerized by their hair. There was something so confident and glamorous about those big, voluminous styles. The modern retro shag captures that spirit while being more wearable for everyday life.
Best For
This cut is perfect for women with medium to thick hair who can really maximize that volume and body. It’s incredibly flattering on round and square face shapes because the volume on top creates height that elongates the face, while the feathered layers soften angular features.
If you love vintage fashion and a glamorous aesthetic, this is your cut. It pairs beautifully with bold makeup—think winged liner and a glossy lip. It’s for the woman who doesn’t mind spending a little extra time styling to achieve that polished, put-together look.
How to Style It
The retro shag requires a bit more styling effort, but the results are worth it. Start with a volumizing mousse on damp hair, focusing on the roots. Blow-dry with a round brush, rolling sections up and away from your face to create lift and curve.
Once dry, use hot rollers or a large-barrel curling iron to create big, bouncy curls throughout. This is where the volume comes from. After curling, let the curls cool completely before touching them—this helps them set and last longer.
Here’s the fun part: once cooled, gently brush through the curls with a paddle brush. Yes, brush them out! This creates that soft, feathered, voluminous look rather than defined curls. Flip your head upside down and give everything a shake, then flip back up and use your fingers to arrange the layers. Finish with a generous amount of hairspray to keep that volume all day.
The Disconnected Shag
What It Is
The disconnected shag is a more modern, avant-garde take on the traditional shag. This cut features intentionally disconnected layers—meaning there are noticeable gaps between the lengths rather than smoothly blended layers. The result is a choppy, edgy, highly textured look that’s full of movement and personality.
I find this cut fascinating because it breaks traditional haircutting rules in the best way possible. Those disconnected layers create such interesting dimension and movement. It’s like wearing a piece of art on your head.
Best For
This cut works best on straight to slightly wavy hair where those disconnected layers are most visible and impactful. It’s particularly stunning on oval and diamond-shaped faces. If you have fine hair, this cut can actually create the illusion of thickness because the varying lengths add visual bulk and texture.
This is for the fashion-forward woman who sees her hair as an extension of her personal style. If you love contemporary fashion, minimalist aesthetics with an edge, or anything avant-garde, this cut aligns with that sensibility. It’s perfect for creatives, artists, and anyone who likes to challenge conventional beauty standards.
How to Style It
The disconnected shag looks best when you emphasize the texture and separation between layers. After washing, apply a texture spray or mousse to damp hair. As you blow-dry, use your fingers to direct different sections in various directions—this enhances that intentionally messy, disconnected look.
Once dry, use a texturizing paste or clay to piece out individual layers. The goal is to create separation and definition, not smooth blending. Don’t be afraid to get a little messy with it—grab small sections and twist them, run the product through in different directions, create that piece-y texture.
For a sleeker version, you can blow-dry straight and use a flat iron, but still use product to create piece-y separation. The key is always maintaining those distinct layers rather than blending everything together.
The Soft Layered Shag
What It Is
The soft layered shag is the gentler cousin in the shag family. While it still features the characteristic layers and texture of a shag cut, everything is softer and more subtle. The layers are blended more smoothly, the texture is less choppy, and the overall effect is feminine and approachable.
This is a cut I often recommend to clients who love the idea of a shag but are worried about looking too edgy or high-maintenance. It gives you the movement and dimension of a shag while maintaining a softer, more classic aesthetic.
Best For
This cut is universally flattering and works on virtually all face shapes and hair types. It’s particularly lovely on women with naturally wavy hair because it enhances your natural texture without fighting against it. If you have a softer, more romantic personal style, this cut will complement it perfectly.
It’s ideal for women who want a modern, stylish cut that’s still professional and polished enough for any setting. I’ve seen this cut in boardrooms and at casual brunches, and it works beautifully in both contexts.
How to Style It
The soft layered shag is wonderfully low-maintenance. For an everyday look, apply a light leave-in conditioner or styling cream to damp hair and let it air-dry. The soft layers will create natural movement without much effort.
For more polish, blow-dry with a round brush, focusing on creating smooth curves rather than volume and texture. You can add a few loose waves with a curling iron for special occasions, but keep them soft and gentle—nothing too tight or structured.
A lightweight serum on the ends keeps everything looking smooth and healthy. The key with this cut is maintaining that softness—avoid heavy products or overly structured styling that would make the layers look stiff or choppy.
The Shaggy Crop
What It Is
The shaggy crop is an ultra-short version of the shag, typically cut close to the head with textured, piece-y layers on top. It’s shorter than a pixie but with more texture and movement. This is serious short hair territory, and it’s absolutely striking when done right.
I have so much respect for women who go for this cut. It takes confidence to wear your hair this short, but the payoff is huge. It’s incredibly chic, it highlights your facial features beautifully, and it’s so easy to maintain. Plus, from a makeup perspective, this cut creates such a clean canvas to work with.
Best For
This cut works best on women with fine to medium hair and strong facial features. Because there’s so little hair, your face becomes the focal point, which is amazing if you have beautiful bone structure, striking eyes, or other features you want to showcase.
It’s particularly flattering on oval, heart, and diamond-shaped faces. If you have a long or prominent neck, this cut will show it off beautifully—and yes, that’s a good thing! This is for the minimalist, the woman who values simplicity and ease over elaborate styling routines.
How to Style It
The shaggy crop is delightfully low-maintenance. After washing, apply a small amount of styling cream or pomade to damp hair. Use your fingers to work it through, creating texture and separation in the longer layers on top.
You can blow-dry for a bit more volume, directing the hair upward and forward with your fingers. Or simply let it air-dry for a more natural, undone look. The entire styling process can take less than five minutes, which is pretty amazing.
For added texture, use a small amount of fiber paste or wax to piece out the layers and create definition. This cut looks great whether you style it messy and textured or sleek and smooth, so you can change it up based on your mood or the occasion.
The Face-Framing Shag
What It Is
Last but definitely not least, we have the face-framing shag. This cut focuses on creating shorter, layered pieces around the face that gradually get longer as you move toward the back. These face-framing layers can start anywhere from the cheekbones to the chin, depending on what’s most flattering for your face shape.
What I love about this cut is how it draws attention to your best features. Those shorter pieces create a natural frame that highlights your eyes, cheekbones, and smile. When I’m doing makeup on someone with this cut, those face-framing layers create beautiful shadows and dimension that enhance the overall look.
Best For
This cut is incredibly versatile and flattering on most face shapes, but it’s particularly stunning on round and square faces. The shorter face-framing layers create vertical lines that elongate and slim the face, while the longer back layers maintain length and femininity.
It works on all hair types but really shines on wavy or textured hair where those face-framing pieces can have a bit of movement and personality. This is perfect for women who want the benefit of bangs without the commitment—those shorter pieces frame your face similarly to bangs but grow out more seamlessly.
How to Style It
The key to styling the face-framing shag is emphasizing those shorter pieces around your face. When blow-drying, use a round brush to direct them away from your face, creating a soft curve. This opens up your face and creates a flattering frame.
For the back and sides, you can style as textured and messy or smooth and polished as you prefer. The face-framing layers will look great either way. I love adding a slight wave or bend to those shorter pieces with a flat iron or curling iron—just a subtle curve that makes them look intentional and styled.
When you’re styling, make sure to really showcase those face-framing layers. Don’t tuck them behind your ears (unless you’re going for a specific look)—let them do their job of framing and highlighting your beautiful face!
Conclusion
You know, after all these years in the beauty industry, one thing has become crystal clear to me: there’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all approach to beauty. What works for one person might not work for another, and that’s not just okay—it’s beautiful. That’s what makes each of us unique.
The shag haircut, in all its wonderful variations, embodies this philosophy perfectly. Whether you’re drawn to the edgy rock ‘n’ roll shag or the soft, romantic wispy version, there’s a shag out there that can express who you are and how you want to show up in the world.
I’ve been fortunate enough to work with so many incredible women throughout my career, and I’ve learned that true beauty isn’t about following trends blindly or trying to look like someone else. It’s about finding what makes you feel confident, comfortable, and authentically yourself. The right haircut can be transformative—not because it changes who you are, but because it helps you express who you already are.
If you’re considering a shag haircut, my advice is this: do your research, find inspiration photos that resonate with you, and have an honest conversation with your hairstylist about your hair type, face shape, and lifestyle. The best haircut is one that not only looks amazing but also fits into your life practically.
Remember that hair grows back. I know that’s easy for me to say, but it’s true! If you’ve been thinking about making a change, there’s never been a better time to be adventurous with your hair. The shag haircut has proven its staying power—it’s been evolving and adapting for decades, and it’s not going anywhere.
I remember when I first moved to New York City at eighteen, feeling nervous and unsure about this big leap I was taking. One of the first things I did was get a shag haircut. It sounds silly, but that haircut made me feel like I was becoming the person I wanted to be—confident, creative, ready to take on the world. Hair has that power. It’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about how it makes you feel when you look in the mirror.
Whether you’re going through a life transition, wanting to refresh your look, or simply ready for something new, a shag haircut could be the perfect choice. It’s versatile enough to work with your natural texture, forgiving enough to look great even when you don’t have time for extensive styling, and stylish enough to keep you feeling confident and current.
As I always say—and I truly believe this with my whole heart—beauty isn’t about perfection. It’s about confidence, creativity, and feeling empowered to express yourself however you choose. Your hair is one of the most visible ways you present yourself to the world, so make it count. Make it you.