If you’re looking to switch up your look, consider the long shag hairstyle. This shag haircut has been popular since the early 1970s, made famous by style icons like Farrah Fawcett and Joan Jett. It adds an edge to a classic layered look while promoting natural volume and texture. The long shag is a universal cut, meaning it works for every hair type and face shape, making it an appealing choice for many. Whether you have thick hair or fine hair, this style can help in adding volume or removing bulk. The modern shag is one of the trendiest haircuts today, offering a low-maintenance option that looks great with a natural texture and is easy to style.
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What Is a Long Shag Haircut
The long shag haircut is a stylish choice that has been popular since the 1970s, made famous by style icons like Farrah Fawcett and Joan Jett. This haircut adds an edge to your look with its classic layered look, providing natural volume and texture. It is a universal cut that works for every hair type, making it flattering for both thick hair and fine hair. The modern shag is one of the trendiest haircuts, known for being low-maintenance and easy to style, especially with its ability to keep your styling time minimal. You can add layers to create more depth, while features like a face-framing fringe or longer layers enhance the overall look. Whether you have long locks or prefer a shorter style, the shag haircut allows for versatility and personalization, making it a great option for anyone wanting to sport a stylish appearance.
Tips for Styling Your Long Shag Cut
To achieve a tousled voluminous look with your modern shag, start by applying moisture to your damp hair using a texturizing spray like Unite Texturiza spray or a sea salt spray to enhance your hair’s natural texture. Next, use a wet brush to detangle and prepare your hair for styling. For added volume, consider using Unite elevate mousse to volumize thin hair and minimize frizz. When blow-drying, grab a Croc blow dryer and a round brush to lift at the roots while scrunching the ends for that signature shag style. If you want to define your layers, use a 1 ¼ inch Croc curling iron or a curling iron to create soft curls that frame your face, focusing on the top layer. For those with bangs, a slight twist with the flat iron can help smooth out any cowlicks. Finish with a touch of R+Co Dallas thickening spray for hold and lift, ensuring your shag looks effortlessly chic throughout the day. This method not only helps maintain a stylish look but also promotes healthier hair by minimizing heat damage through careful styling techniques.
Long Shag Haircuts by Face Shape
Shag Haircuts for Oval Faces
If you have an oval face shape, you can enjoy many shag hairstyles that enhance your symmetrical facial features. A popular choice is the French-inspired bob, which is short in length and includes bangs to create a choppier shag look. This style flatters your face beautifully, making it a favorite among those with oval faces. Unlike styles suited for round or heart shapes, this haircut allows you to show off your features while keeping a trendy vibe. Embrace your unique beauty with these chic shaggy styles that highlight what you love about your look.
Shag Haircuts for Round Faces
For those with a round face shape, choosing the right shaggy hairstyles can create a more sculpted appearance. A versatile shag haircut is perfect because it can hide facial features while adding style. Opting for a longer shag can help elongate your look, making it more flattering. You can also consider medium-length shags that allow you to customize length and layering to suit your face shape. Adding curtain bangs or even short bangs can enhance the overall effect, drawing attention to your best features while balancing the roundness of your face. This way, you can enjoy a trendy shag that truly complements your unique beauty.
Shag Haircuts for Square Faces
If you have a square face, the right shaggy hairstyle can help you soften sharp angles and create a more balanced look. Using face-framing layers will be your best friend as they can soften your jawline and help to elongate your face. You can choose from short strands, medium strands, or even long strands to find the perfect length that suits your style. This way, you can enjoy a trendy shag that highlights your features while minimizing the strong lines of a square face, giving you a chic and flattering appearance.
Shag Haircuts for Heart-Shaped Faces
For those with a heart-shaped face, finding the right shaggy cut can beautifully enhance your dainty defined features. A shaggy bob haircut works wonders as it includes bangs that can soften your face shape and help to minimize forehead appearance. If you’re feeling bold, a shaggy pixie haircut can also be a great choice, as it allows you to accentuate your cheekbones while adding a fun edge. Incorporating side-swept bangs and plenty of layers will create a balanced look that highlights your unique beauty, making you feel confident and stylish.
Shag Haircuts for Long Faces
If you have a long face, the right shag style can work wonders for you. A shag haircut with choppy layers is perfect for adding volume and texture, which helps to balance your face’s length. You can play with hair thickness and length to find what suits you best. A medium shag with long side bangs not only looks stylish but also helps to conceal a large forehead, giving a more proportionate look. By manipulating texture and defining ends, you can create a casual, mussy do that feels effortless yet chic, making your long face appear softer and more inviting.
Long Shag Haircuts by Hair Type
Shag Haircuts for Thick Hair
For those with thick hair, a long shag is a stylish choice that can help manage volume while looking trendy. This haircut features shaggy layers that create multiple tiers, showcasing brighter highlights on top and darker lowlights underneath, which adds depth to your look. A multi-layered cut not only helps to remove bulk but also gives a lighter feel to your hair. Whether your hair is natural, blown-out, or air-dried, this style offers great versatility. To enhance your thick hair, consider using products like Oribe Royal Blowout Heat Styling Spray to cut down on drying time and add a beautiful sheen. When styling, aim to keep the hair below the occipital bone pin-straight and straighten the bottom section at a 90-degree angle to maintain a sleek look without adding too much texture at the roots. This way, you can enjoy a dynamic look that highlights your features beautifully.
Shag Haircuts for Thin Hair
For those with thin hair, a shag haircut can create the illusion of a thicker appearance. A good shag haircut is like your favorite outfit; it looks great with minimal accessories and gives you a flawless look. The secret lies in skillfully cut layers that not only ease styling but also boost volume and accentuate texture. With 30 great ideas available, you can find the perfect style that works for your hair’s density levels. However, it’s important to remember the difference between fine hair and thin hair; too many layers can lead to a mullet look. Instead, focus on the key is layers to achieve a simple yet gorgeous style, like adding some feathered bangs or opting for a modern shag haircut. Incorporating darker shades at the roots can enhance the volume illusion, while using strong hold products will keep your style looking fresh and full of life.
Shag Haircuts for Curly Hair
For those with curly hair, long shag haircuts are a fantastic choice that enhances your natural curls while adding volume and movement. This style works beautifully with your curly texture, especially when you incorporate bangs for a trendy look. To achieve this, use a curl defining cream and a lightweight gel, then diffuse your hair until it’s about 80% dry before letting it air dry completely. A curly frizzy shag with a fringe is perfect for maintaining your curl length while giving you that chic messy look. Start your routine with a curl-enhancing shampoo and conditioner to help control frizz and highlight your curl shape. Remember to define curls by scrunching your hair to boost curl formation. While getting a shag requires some commitment, it allows for beautiful layers within curls, creating a voluminous shape that accentuates your features. Finding a great stylist who understands curly hair is key, as they will know how to use techniques like disconnected layering and slide cut layering to give you the latest trends in curly hairstyles.
Shag Haircuts for Fine Hair
For those with fine hair, a long shag haircut is a fantastic way to add volume and texture without looking limp. This style works well across various density levels, making it perfect for anyone who wants to enhance their hair. To achieve a full look, start with a texturizing product like O&M Surf Bomb Sea Salt Spray on damp hair. Then, blow dry your hair while pulling it forward at a 90-degree angle to keep the roots flat and encourage movement through the mid-lengths. A midi shag with bangs is a versatile option that can fit any occasion, offering both edginess and sophistication. For those who prefer a softer look, a soft shag cut with short bangs can provide the movement you need while maintaining density. Whether you choose to air-dry your curls or diffuse them for a defined style, long shags are ideal for creating effortless hairstyles that keep your long locks looking stylish and loose.
Popular Long Shag Styles
Long Shag with Curtain Bangs
A long shag with curtain bangs is a stylish choice that features a multi-layered cut and a middle part fringe to beautifully frame your face. This haircut adds shape and texture to your long tresses while maintaining length, making it versatile for various hair types. It requires low maintenance and offers a beautiful grow-out, which is perfect for those who want a chic yet effortless look. While fine-haired ladies might worry about their hair looking stringy, a textured face frame with longer layers in the back can help maintain fullness. If you love movement and texture, this style allows you to embrace your natural hair texture while letting your hair breathe and move freely. The curtain bangs, often referred to as gateway bangs, can hit at cheekbone length or slightly longer, providing a youthful touch that enhances your features. This trendy cut is perfect for all generations and can be styled with hot rollers or curling irons for added flair.
Layered Long Shag
A layered long shag is a stylish choice that combines shape and texture to create a trendy look. This multi-layered cut works beautifully with both straight hair and curly hair, making it a versatile option for everyone. With its choppy ends and tousled waves, this hairstyle adds movement and volume to your long tresses. It’s perfect for those who want a low-maintenance style that still looks effortlessly chic. You can enhance your layers with a diffuser when you air-dry your hair, giving you that fresh-from-the-shore look. For added flair, consider incorporating curtain bangs or a face-framing fringe, which can soften your features and complement the overall style. Whether you have thick hair or fine hair, this haircut allows for easy removing bulk while still adding volume, making it an ideal choice for anyone wanting to sport beautiful, natural texture.
Face-Framing Layers
Face-framing layers are a fantastic addition to a shag haircut, especially for those looking to achieve a youthful appearance. These layers allow your hair to drape softly around your face, helping to conceal any fine lines while enhancing your features. This style is incredibly versatile, working well with any face shape and remaining timeless. In 2022, you can choose a shag that is short, long, drastic, or subtle, depending on your commitment level. Most shags feature volume-creating layers and dramatic contrast, which adds movement and texture. Adding bangs can provide a lovely counterpoint to the look, especially when paired with loose waves for a fresh style. Whether you prefer to air-dry your hair or use styling tools, face-framing layers can create an effortless hairstyle that suits both thick hair and fine hair, making it easy to add volume and remove bulk for a chic finish.
Textured Long Shag
A textured long shag is a fantastic way to add style and body to your hair, especially if you have fine hair. This haircut features layering that creates a textured look with volume at the roots and movement throughout. You can choose to include wavy bangs or go for eyebrow-grazing bangs that frame your face beautifully. For those with straight hair, asking your stylist for choppy ends can enhance the overall effect, giving you that fresh, beachy style. The beauty of this shag is in its effortless hairstyles, allowing for a loose texture that looks great with minimal styling time. Whether you prefer to air-dry your hair or add some tousled waves, this modern shag haircut is perfect for anyone wanting a casual finish with defined layers and soft waves.
Wavy Long Shag
A wavy long shag is a stunning choice for those with thick hair, as it allows you to showcase your natural texture while looking trendy. This layered cut features choppy bangs that add a modern twist, especially when paired with an undercut and a deep side part. For a more subtle look, curtain bangs parted in the center can blend seamlessly with the rest of your wavy shag. Adding an ear tuck instantly elevates the style, while keeping the ends razored creates a classic, messy layers look. If you have natural curls, this shag is perfect for enhancing volume and movement. To achieve the look, use a curl defining cream and lightweight gel, then let your hair air dry for a fresh, tousled effect. Finish with some beachy waves and a texturizing spray for added texture. Whether you have platinum blonde hair or a natural shade, this shag looks stunning with shaggy layers and soft waves, making it a versatile choice for anyone wanting a stylish, fresh look.
Choppy Long Shag
The choppy long shag is a stylish haircut that brings a trendy style to your look with its choppy layers and long curtain bangs. This shag haircut adds texture and volume, making it perfect for those who want a messy look that feels effortless. To achieve this style, you can use dry wax for a tousled finish that gives your hair body and movement. It’s great for all hair types, including heavy hair and natural curls, as it allows for a soft texture. For added flair, consider an undercut or an ear tuck, which can enhance the overall appearance. You can also play with short layers and face-framing bangs to create a more dynamic look. Whether you go for a classic bob cut or embrace the shaggy layers, using a texturizing spray will help maintain that fresh, beachy vibe that everyone loves.
Messy Long Shag
The messy long shag is a fun and stylish haircut that gives you a rock-n-roll feel while keeping things casual. With tousled layers and an uneven texture, this shag haircut adds volume and movement to your long locks. It’s perfect for those with thick hair or natural curls, as it allows for a soft texture that looks effortlessly chic. To achieve this trendy style, consider using dry wax to enhance the choppy ends and create a messy look. You can also add some beachy waves for extra flair or incorporate face-framing highlights to brighten your appearance. Whether you wear it down or throw it into a messy bun, this modern shag haircut is all about embracing your hair’s natural beauty while enjoying a fresh, stylish vibe.
Shag Styles With Highlights
Adding highlights to your long shag hairstyles creates a beautiful dimensional effect that enlivens your strands. This technique adds visual complexity, making your hair look more vibrant and stylish. Whether you’re heading to professional environments or enjoying casual outings, highlights can make your look adaptable and fresh. To achieve this, you can use styling techniques like blow-drying with a round brush to enhance the layers and texture. A sleek shag cut with a face-framing fringe and contrasting colors can give you an edgy feel while maintaining a soft look. For those with medium-density hair, shorter layers at the crown can create the illusion of thicker hair and add volume. Using a texturizing product or a little matte clay can provide extra grip and hold, allowing your choppy style to shine. Whether you choose a chin-length wolf cut or a neck-length shaggy mullet, highlights will elevate your hairstyle, making it stylish and on-trend.
Shag Styles With Balayage
Long shag hairstyles with balayage are a beautiful way to add vibrant colors and a dimensional effect to your hair. This technique creates a soft texture and enhances the natural movement of your locks. The layered cut allows for face-framing layers that highlight your features, while the subtle highlights and contrasting tones give you a sun-kissed look. Whether you prefer warm hues or cool shades, balayage works well with various hair types, making it a versatile choice. This style is also low-maintenance, requiring fewer salon visits to keep it looking fresh. To achieve an effortless appearance, consider using styling techniques that create tousled waves and add body and volume. With the right care, this modern shag cut can give you a rich tone and radiant shine that truly stands out.
Shag Styles With Undercut
A long shag hairstyle with an undercut is a bold choice that creates an edgy look with plenty of volume and texture. This modern shag cut features choppy layers and face-framing bangs that add visual depth and movement to your hair. The undercut in the crown area provides a contrast, allowing you to experiment with vibrant colors or embrace your natural curls. To achieve a messy style with tousled waves, use styling techniques that enhance the layered cut. Despite the edgy appearance, this hairstyle is versatile and works well with various hair types. With proper maintenance and fewer salon visits, you can maintain the chic look while enjoying an effortless appearance. The razor-cut technique used for the undercut creates a sleek finish that complements the soft texture of the shag layers. Whether you prefer a side parting or a more uniform style, this long shag with an undercut is a statement-making choice that showcases your personality.
Styling Tips and Inspiration
Effortless Styling Tips for Long Shags
For effortless styling of your long shag hairstyles, focus on creating texture and volume without spending too much time. Start with a maintenance routine that includes using dry shampoo to refresh your hair between washes. To achieve those beautiful tousled waves, try the air-dry method or use a blow-dryer with a round brush for added bounce. Incorporate face-framing layers and choppy ends to enhance the messy style that defines a shag. Using a texture spray can help you achieve that soft wave look while maintaining natural movement. This low-maintenance style is perfect for all hair types, allowing for quick styling tips that fit into your busy life. With subtle highlights or vibrant colors, your shag will always have a fresh look and a chic appearance, making it easy to enjoy casual elegance every day.
Color Ideas to Enhance Your Long Shag
To make your long shag hairstyles stand out, consider some exciting color ideas that add flair and personality. Using vibrant hues can create a stunning dimensional effect, while warm tones or cool shades can complement your natural look. Techniques like balayage and ombre give you that sun-kissed glow with face-framing highlights that brighten your features. For a more playful touch, try peekaboo highlights or pastel shades that add a fun twist without being too bold. This low-maintenance style is perfect for those who want to keep salon visits to a minimum while still enjoying rich colors and natural movement. Remember to use color-safe products to maintain your hair’s health and shine, ensuring your vibrant look stays fresh and beautiful.
Essential Products for Long Shags
To keep your long shag hairstyles looking great, using the best products is key. Start with dry shampoo to refresh your hair between washes and add volume. A good texture spray can enhance your shag’s natural movement, while mousse and volumizing products will give you that extra body. Always apply a heat protectant before styling with heat tools to prevent damage. For added moisture, use a leave-in conditioner or a nourishing hair oil to keep your locks shiny and healthy. If you have curls, a curl cream can help define them beautifully. To control frizz and add shine, try a shine serum or a smoothing balm. Don’t forget a finishing spray to hold your style in place without making it stiff. With these products, you can achieve effortless styling while maintaining the vibrant look of your shag.
Additional Considerations
Versatile Shags for All Hair Types
Shag hairstyles are perfect for all hair types, making them a versatile choice for anyone looking to change their look. With face-framing layers and texture, these cuts add volume and movement, whether you have straight, wavy, or curly hair. For a chic look, consider loose waves or a messy curly shag that gives off an edgy vibe. Short layers can create an angelic vibe, while longer styles like the ultra-long shag or long shaggy bob offer a boho style that is easy to style and low-maintenance. This haircut suits medium-to-thick density and is flattering for round faces, especially with a full fringe or wispy ends. Just remember to trim every few months to keep your shag looking fresh and stylish.
Shags That Suit Different Face Shapes
When choosing shag hairstyles, it’s important to consider your face shapes to find the most flattering look. For round faces, styles with long curtain bangs and choppy layers can add length and balance. If you have an oval face, you can rock almost any shag, especially with loose waves and soft ends for a feminine style. For square faces, a shag with face-framing layers helps soften the angles, while a heart shape benefits from longer layers that create volume. If you have a diamond shape, opt for an ultra-long shag or a messy curly shag that enhances your features. All these styles are easy to style and offer great texture and volume, making them versatile for different hair types while keeping a chic look.
Avoiding Common Mistakes with Long Shags
When getting a long shag hairstyle, it’s important to avoid common mistakes that can lead to disappointment. One of the biggest issues is overlooking communication with your stylist, which can result in misunderstandings about the desired look. Another mistake is neglecting maintenance, such as regular trims and salon visits, which are essential for keeping your shag looking its best. Ignoring texture is also a pitfall, as texturizing techniques are key to achieving the dynamic look and shape you want. Using professional-grade scissors for a precise cut is crucial to avoid hair damage. Always use quality products and styling tools with a heat protectant to maintain your hair’s health. Over-styling and product buildup can lead to a dull appearance, lack of volume, and heavy ends. Cutting uneven layers or leaving blunt ends creates a dated look with unflattering proportions. Choosing a style that doesn’t suit your face shape, hair type, or personal style is another common mistake. Ensure your maintenance routine, lifestyle, budget, and time commitment align with the shag you select. Communication with your stylist and managing your expectations are essential to getting the long shag you love.
Maintenance Tips for Long Shags
To keep your long shag hairstyles looking fresh and vibrant, follow these essential maintenance tips. First, schedule regular trims to maintain the shape and remove any split ends. A good hair care routine starts with using a quality shampoo and conditioner, preferably sulfate-free, to keep your hair healthy. Incorporate a deep conditioner into your routine for added moisture and frizz control. When styling, use a heat protectant to shield your hair from damage during blow-drying or when using styling tools. For easy detangling, a wide-tooth comb or a paddle brush works best, and a detangling spray can help prevent breakage. To avoid product buildup, choose lightweight styling products like mousse, curl cream, or a lightweight gel for volume enhancement. Don’t forget to use a finishing spray or an anti-frizz spray to keep your style in place. Regular salon visits and professional consultations can also help you find the right products for your hair type while ensuring moisture retention and overall hair health.
Celebrity-Inspired Long Shags
If you’re looking for inspiration for long shag hairstyles, many celebrities have rocked this style with flair. Stars like Ciara, Zendaya, and Taylor Swift showcase how versatile a shag can be, from choppy bangs to big curls. The effortless cool vibe of these styles often features layers that add body and fullness, making it easy to achieve a messy yet chic look. Celebrities like Halle Berry and Bella Hadid often sport variations with curtain bangs or a layered long bob, while others like Miley Cyrus and Florence Welch embrace the 70s style with fluffy shags and bouncy curls. Whether you prefer a polished shag with honey-blonde balayage or an undone beachy look, these celebrity styles highlight individuality and texture, proving that a long shag can fit any personal style.
Versatile Looks
Trendy Versatile Looks for Modern Shags
Long shag hairstyles are perfect for anyone looking to achieve trendy looks with great versatility. This style allows for effortless styling, whether you prefer tousled waves for a relaxed vibe or a sleek look for something more polished. With layers and choppy ends, you can add volume and texture that works well with both thick hair and fine hair. For a modern shag, consider piece-y bangs or face-framing layers that enhance your individuality. You can also embrace the boho style with messy buns or beach waves, making it easy to switch up your look. Whether you choose highlights, lowlights, or vibrant colors, this hairstyle offers stylish options that are low-maintenance yet chic, allowing for natural movement and fullness in your hair
Versatile Looks for Any Occasion
Long shag hairstyles offer a range of versatile looks that are perfect for any occasion, from casual to formal. With trendy styles like the classic shag, messy shag, or boho chic, you can achieve an effortless look with volume, texture, and movement. Layers and choppy ends add dimension, while bangs can frame your face beautifully. Whether you prefer a sleek appearance or something more relaxed, this low-maintenance style is suitable for all hair types and individual needs. For a polished look, use blow-dry techniques and a round brush to style your shag. Incorporate vibrant colors, highlights, or lowlights to add a unique touch. If you have natural curls, embrace them with a curly shag for an edgy vibe. With so many stylish options, from a cropped bob shag to a shoulder-length shag with curtain bangs, you’re sure to find a look that suits your personal style and the occasion.
Everyday Versatile Looks
Versatile shag hairstyles are perfect for everyday wear, offering a stylish yet low-maintenance option for busy lives. With easy styling, you can achieve tousled waves or textured layers that add volume and movement without much effort. This hairstyle works well for a variety of hair types, whether you have fine hair, thick hair, or even curly hair. You can customize your look with face-framing bangs or keep it simple with a shoulder-length shag. For those with a busy lifestyle, air-drying or using products like mousse and texture cream can save time while still looking chic. Inspired by the 90s, think of styles like the Rachel hairstyle made famous by Jennifer Aniston. With minimal styling needed, this haircut is a budget-friendly choice that suits different face shapes and enhances your natural beauty, making it a universal choice for anyone wanting an effortlessly chic appearance.
Stylish Looks for Special Events
Long shag hairstyles are perfect for adding a touch of style to any special event while still being low-maintenance. These versatile looks can easily be dressed up or down, making them ideal for various occasions. You can create an effortless look with tousled waves and textured layers, or opt for face-framing bangs to enhance your features. For a chic appearance, consider a shoulder-length shag or a cropped bob shag that adds volume and movement. If you want to make a bold statement, try a blonde ombré shag with bright colors, or keep it classic with a messy shag. This hairstyle works well for a variety of hair types, including fine hair, and is customizable to fit your personal style, whether you prefer an eclectic look or something more modern to modernize vintage style.
Choosing the Perfect Long Shag
When choosing a long shag hairstyle, consider its versatility and easy maintenance. This trendy cut offers a range of options, from layers and curtain bangs that add volume and texture, to customization based on your face shape and hair type. The beauty of a shag lies in its effortless styling, allowing you to achieve a wash-and-go style with minimal effort. Consulting with your stylist is key to getting the perfect cut, whether you prefer heavy layers, choppy ends, or soft fringes. The right shag will provide natural movement, body and bounce, and a flattering appearance. As a timeless cut, a long shag can be styled to look modern and edgy or chic and low-maintenance. Invest in the right styling products and blow-drying techniques, and keep dry shampoo on hand for tousled waves on the go.
FAQs
What does a gypsy haircut look like?
A gypsy haircut typically features long layers, textured ends, and often includes bangs or a messy look, giving it a free-spirited and bohemian style.
Are shags good for long faces?
Yes, shags can be flattering for long faces as they add volume and texture, helping to balance the face shape.
Are long shags in style in 2024?
Yes, long shags are expected to remain in style in 2024, continuing their trendiness with modern twists and versatile looks.