How to Choose the Right Haircut for Your Face Shape

Choosing the perfect haircut can be daunting, with countless styles to choose from. While experimenting with new looks is fun, finding a classic, flattering cut that complements your unique features is key.

Blog author: Georgina Cosgrove
In This Article

In This Article

Choosing the perfect haircut can be daunting, with countless styles to choose from. While experimenting with new looks is fun, finding a classic, flattering cut that complements your unique features is key. At RUSH, our expert stylists understand that selecting the right haircut goes beyond personal preference and lies in understanding your face shape.

The right cut can enhance your best features, balance proportions, and boost confidence, while the wrong one can draw attention to areas you may not want to highlight. Our skilled stylists provide personalised recommendations based on your face shape, hair texture, and lifestyle, ensuring you look and feel your best.

In this blog post, we’ll explore different face shapes and the haircuts that best suit each one, as well as discuss factors like hair texture and maintenance. Whether you’re seeking a bold new look or want to refine your signature style, understanding how to choose the right haircut for your face shape is the first step towards achieving hair perfection. 

What is Your Face Shape?

Before diving into the best haircuts for your face shape, it’s essential to understand why knowing your face shape is crucial. Your face shape is determined by your forehead, cheekbones, and jawline, and it plays a significant role in how a haircut will look on you. Choosing a haircut that complements your face shape can enhance your features, balance your proportions, and make you feel more confident. At RUSH, our expert stylists are trained to identify your face shape and recommend the most flattering haircuts for you.

Oval

If you have an oval-shaped face, consider yourself lucky! An oval face is considered the most versatile face shape, as it can pull off almost any haircut. The length of an oval face is slightly longer than the width, with the forehead being the widest part. You can experiment with a variety of lengths, from short to long, and part your hair in the middle or on the side. Your hair can be worn smooth and straight, textured, or curled, giving you endless styling options.

Long

A long or oblong face shape is characterised by a forehead, cheeks, and jawline that are nearly the same width, with the distance from forehead to chin being a bit longer than the distance from ear to ear. If you have a long face shape, like celebrities Sarah Jessica Parker and Liv Tyler, avoid haircuts that are too long or too short, as they can accentuate the length of your face. If you prefer longer hair, consider adding a fringe to break up the length and complement a shorter forehead.

Round

In a round face shape, the length and width ratio is about equal, with soft, rounded features and flatter cheekbones that are the widest part of the face. To elongate a round face, like those of Adele and Chrissy Teigen, opt for a long bob with a centre part. Avoid haircuts that hug the face, as they can emphasise the roundness. Alternatively, try a long side-swept bang or an asymmetric cut to break up the round shape.

Square

A square face shape has a nearly equal length to width ratio, with a strong, angled jawline and minimal curve at the chin. To elongate a square face, like those of Nicole Richie and Olivia Wilde, avoid haircuts that expose the forehead. If you prefer a shorter cut, keep the fringe wispy for a textured look.

Heart

The heart-shaped face is characterised by a pointed, slim chin and a wider forehead, resembling an inverted triangle. To balance a heart-shaped face, like those of Reese Witherspoon and Kerry Washington, draw attention to your eyes and cheekbones. Bangs are a great way to camouflage the width of the forehead and can be worn with any length you choose. Bobs should remain chin-length or just below to broaden the lower part of the face.

Diamond

Diamond-shaped faces are usually defined by high cheekbones, a pointed chin, and a narrower forehead. To balance a diamond face shape, choose a haircut that softens your features, like deep side parts and lots of layers. Avoid straight bangs and flat styles, centre parts, and bangs that are too short. Heart-shaped bangs can disguise a wide forehead, while a bit of length gives width to the chin.

Remember, these are general guidelines, and the best way to find the perfect haircut for your face shape is to consult with a skilled stylist at RUSH. Our experts will take into account your face shape, hair texture, and personal style to create a look that makes you feel beautiful and confident.

Haircuts for an Oval Face Shape

Ideal Haircuts:

  • Long layers
  • Shoulder-length waves
  • Full fringe
  • Layered bob
  • Side-swept pixie
  • Strong, square bob

Haircuts to Avoid:

  • Haircuts that are too short or too long, as they can throw off the balance of your face shape.

Haircuts for a Long Face Shape

Ideal Haircuts:

  • Layers and volume to soften edges and strong jawlines
  • Side-swept or feathered fringe
  • Long layers and angles for movement and texture

Haircuts to Avoid:

  • Haircuts that are too long or too short, as they can accentuate the length of the face.

Haircuts for a Round Face Shape

Ideal Haircuts:

  • Long bob to visually lengthen the face
  • Long straight hair
  • Long voluminous waves
  • Shaggy bobs
  • Curtain bangs with cropped sides

Haircuts to Avoid:

  • Haircuts that hug the face, as they can emphasise the roundness.

Haircuts for a Square Face Shape

Ideal Haircuts:

  • Wavy shags with wispy fringe to soften edges around the forehead and jawline
  • Soft side-swept bangs
  • Long layers with fringe
  • Short haircuts with softer angles

Haircuts to Avoid:

  • Haircuts that expose the forehead or have strong, angular lines.

Haircuts for a Heart Face Shape

Ideal Haircuts:

  • Blunt bangs with wavy layers
  • Chin-length bob with bangs
  • Soft angles in the front that start below the face to balance out the forehead
  • Narrow bangs to create the illusion of less width at the top

Haircuts to Avoid:

  • Haircuts that add volume at the top of the head, as they can make the forehead appear wider.

Haircuts for a Diamond Face Shape

Ideal Haircuts:

  • Short-cropped hair to show off high cheekbones
  • Long hair with face-framing layers
  • Bangs that hit around the cheekbone to accentuate the shape

Haircuts to Avoid:

  • Haircuts that are too voluminous at the sides, as they can make the face appear wider.

Are There Haircuts that Suit All Face Shapes?

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the variety of haircuts recommended for different face shapes, remember that there are no strict rules when it comes to choosing the perfect hairstyle. However, there are a few haircuts that come close to being universally flattering, regardless of your face shape. These include a versatile bob that can be easily customised with bangs, texture, or length; a shoulder-length cut with soft layers that works well for most people; and a long, layered haircut with varying angles in the front that can be tailored to suit any face shape. At RUSH, our expert stylists will work with you to create a haircut that complements your unique features and personal style.

Book Your Hair Appointment Now

Ready to discover the perfect haircut for your face shape? At RUSH, our expert stylists are dedicated to helping you find a hairstyle that enhances your unique features and makes you feel your best. Find your nearest salon today and let our experienced team provide you with a personalised haircut recommendation tailored to your face shape, hair texture, and style preferences. Trust us to guide you through the process of selecting a haircut that will leave you looking and feeling confident, beautiful, and truly yourself. Don’t wait any longer – take the first step towards your dream haircut and book your appointment now!

FAQ's

How do I determine my face shape?

To determine your face shape, look at the overall contours of your face, paying attention to the width of your forehead, cheekbones, and jawline, as well as the length of your face from forehead to chin. You can also ask your stylist at RUSH to help you identify your face shape during your consultation.

Can I still wear trendy hairstyles if they don't match my face shape?

While certain haircuts may be more flattering for your face shape, there are no strict rules when it comes to personal style. If you have your heart set on a particular trendy hairstyle, discuss your options with your stylist. They can help you find ways to adapt the style to better suit your face shape or suggest alternative looks that capture the essence of the trend while complementing your features.

How often should I update my haircut to maintain a flattering look?

The frequency of your haircuts will depend on your hair type, style, and personal preferences. On average, it’s recommended to get a trim every 6-8 weeks to maintain the shape and health of your hair. However, if you have a shorter or more precise cut, you may need to visit the salon more frequently.

How can I maintain a haircut that suits my face shape between salon visits?

To keep your haircut looking its best between salon visits, follow the styling tips and product recommendations provided by your RUSH stylist. They can demonstrate how to recreate the look at home and suggest products that will help you maintain the shape and style of your cut. Regular trims will also help keep your hair looking fresh and prevent it from losing its shape.

Do certain hair textures influence the choice of haircut for my face shape?

Yes, your hair texture can play a role in choosing the most flattering haircut for your face shape. For example, if you have fine hair, a blunt bob may help create the illusion of fuller, thicker hair, while those with curly hair may benefit from layers to add movement and shape. Your stylist will take your hair texture into account when recommending the best haircut for your face shape and personal style.