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Ever admired a hairstyle on someone else, only to find that it doesn’t quite work the same way on you? The truth is, not every cut suits every face shape. A hairstyle that enhances your features can make all the difference, and knowing what works best for your face shape will help you find a cut that looks effortlessly flattering.
Whether you have an oval, square, heart-shaped, or diamond face, this guide will help you discover the best styles for your unique features.
Finding Your Face Shape
Before jumping into trendy hairstyles, it’s important to determine what face shape you have. Here’s a quick way to figure it out:
- Pull your hair back, exposing your full face.
- Stand in front of a mirror and trace the outline of your face with a lip pencil or take a well-lit selfie.
- Compare your shape to these common categories:
- Oval: Balanced proportions, slightly longer than wide.
- Square: Strong jawline and broad forehead with straight sides.
- Heart-shaped: Wider forehead that narrows to a pointed chin.
- Diamond: Narrow forehead and chin with high cheekbones.
Once you know your face shape, it’s time to find the perfect hairstyle to complement your features.
Best Hairstyles for Oval Faces
If you have an oval face, consider yourself lucky, this shape is the most versatile. With balanced proportions, almost any hairstyle works. The key is enhancing your natural symmetry without elongating the face too much.
Flattering Styles:
- Blunt bob or lob – A sleek, chin-length or shoulder-length bob highlights cheekbones and keeps the face looking proportional.
- Soft layers – Adding layers creates movement and prevents hair from looking flat.
- Curtain bangs – These frame the face beautifully and add softness.
- Slicked-back ponytail – Perfect for showcasing your natural bone structure.
Styles to Avoid:
- Extremely long, straight styles that can make the face look longer than it is.
- Heavy, rounded cuts that add unnecessary width.
Best Hairstyles for Square Faces
Square faces have defined jawlines and strong features, so the goal is to soften angles with the right hairstyle.
Flattering Styles:
- Side-parted waves – Loose curls or waves break up the sharp angles of a square face.
- Long layers – Adding layers helps create a more oval-like illusion.
- Textured bob – A slightly tousled bob adds movement and softens strong jawlines.
- Side-swept bangs – These draw attention away from the forehead and add softness.
Styles to Avoid:
- Blunt, one-length bobs that accentuate a strong jawline.
- Heavy, straight-across bangs that make the face look boxy.
Best Hairstyles for Heart-Shaped Faces
Heart-shaped faces have a wider forehead and a narrow chin, so the goal is to balance out the lower half of the face.
Flattering Styles:
- Chin-length bobs – These add width to the jawline, balancing the face.
- Long waves – Soft waves draw attention downward, evening out proportions.
- Side-swept bangs – These minimize the width of the forehead.
- Low, voluminous ponytail – Creates balance by adding fullness near the jawline.
Styles to Avoid:
- Very short cuts that make the forehead appear wider.
- High ponytails or buns that accentuate the narrow chin.
Best Hairstyles for Diamond Face Shape
Diamond face shapes have narrow foreheads, high cheekbones, and a defined jawline, so the best styles will soften the angular features while maintaining balance.
Flattering Styles:
- Shoulder-length waves – Soft curls or waves add width where needed.
- Side parts – A deep side part helps break up angular lines.
- Chin-length bobs with layers – These add fullness to the jawline and forehead.
- Long, wispy bangs – Help soften high cheekbones and narrow foreheads.
Styles to Avoid:
- Extremely short cuts that emphasize the sharpness of the jawline.
- Flat, sleek hairstyles that can make the face appear too angular.
How to Choose a Style That Works for You
Even though face shape plays a big role in choosing a hairstyle, there are a few other things to consider:
1. Hair Type Matters
- Fine hair? Go for layered styles to add volume.
- Thick hair? Try a structured cut to remove bulk.
- Curly hair? Opt for cuts that enhance natural texture instead of fighting it.
2. Consider Your Lifestyle
Some styles require daily styling, while others are low-maintenance. If you don’t have time for daily blowouts, opt for a cut that grows out well and works with your natural texture.
3. Test It Before Committing
Thinking about a major change? Try styling your hair differently before making a permanent cut. Pinning up sections, parting your hair differently, or using temporary clip-in bangs can give you an idea of how a new look might suit you.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right hairstyle isn’t just about trends, it’s about highlighting your best features while working with your hair’s natural texture. Whether you have an oval, square, heart-shaped, or diamond face, choosing a cut that complements your face shape can make all the difference.
Next time you book a salon appointment, you’ll walk in knowing exactly what to ask for.
