I was asked about shag haircuts while waiting for my appointment and I overheard a woman tell the stylist that she wanted an 1977 Stevie Nicks haircut and then added ‘but make it work for school pickup.’ I thought this was such a great example of the irony in the stark contrast of the style of the picture versus the one she wanted. The long shag haircut is functional for the school pick up and has started to serve its purpose. The less fear people have about the full embrace of the style, the better. It’s great to see a haircut with this much versatility and a relaxed vibe. No one is going to care about how dirty their hair is because it *actually* looks better that way.
It’s great to see so many people finally embrace shag haircuts. Just over a month ago, I had a client get a shag haircut with really extreme micro bangs and I’d never seen her look so ‘her’ before. A shag haircut helps the wearer to drop that mask and act more spacious, and even more than that, to step beyond average. A long shag haircut, as with any bangs, is going to push you to be the version of yourself that you want to be.
#1: That Warm Ombre Long Shag You’ll Want to Run Your Hands Through
This long shag features shaggy layers that promote lots of movement. The waves look tousled as if you had come from somewhere fun and interesting, a great selling point for a haircut. The ombre coloring is pretty neat, adding a little more depth in a subtle way. This is the ideal cut for you if you have fine hair as it will give the illusion of an abundance of hair. Remember that you’ll definitely need to stay on top of your trims to maintain this cut because layers lose their personality after eight weeks.
#2: That Micro Fringe Shag with All the 70s Energy
I have to say I’m kinda obsessed with this. The blunt micro fringe with soft feathered layers is a bold move but it totally pays off here. The natural waves took this to a whole other level, and those stunning S-bend clumps are giving so much effortless movement. If your hair is the same texture, it’s a total time saver using a diffuser. The only thing I’d add is that if your face framing pieces are thick, you might need some strategic thinning there, or you’ll get a huge poof that will fight the whole shape. I love the bangs but fair warning they are gonna take some upkeep. If you want those micro bangs to stay like that, you’ll need a trim every three weeks.
#3: Dark Chocolate Shag with That Short Fringe Moment
This cut was done where you appreciate the hair-stylist. The dark chocolate shade and blunt cropped bangs look great together, and the long layered hair that is swept behind the ears creates a mullet effect that is incredibly flattering. You can see one side is behind the ear. That creates asymmetry and modernises the cut without having to do a full asymmetrical cut. From what I can see, the ends appear to create a natural S-wave from what looks like straight to more wavy. That is the kind of look that you would get from a one-inch barrel when your hair is styled straighter. You’ve been warned! That short fringe is not a ‘grow it out gracefully’ type of bangs, so prepare yourself before you go for it.
#4: Copper-Rust Shag That Photographs Like a Dream
To be honest, I love this copper tone! You’re getting this lovely rusty copper color with a shadow root, which means regrowth won’t be too noticeable for a few weeks, and if you’ve ever been a redhead, you know that’s the best. The micro fringe is a little choppy and imperfect on purpose so it doesn’t look too precious. One thing I would want to go over during a consultation in this case is porosity, because the cuticle looks a little raised and that usually means this color is going to fade a lot quicker than you’d like. A demi-gloss with a bond builder every few weeks is going to be honest.
#5: Strawberry Copper with Those Perfect Rounded Micro Bangs
I couldn’t help but smile when I saw this. This is such a happy color! It’s a strawberry copper, like sunlight caught in the hair. The micro bangs look soft and round, which I appreciate. The face framing layers are high enough that they actually open up the face. I love how this looks like an air dry situation, the natural 2A/2B wave pattern gives enough texture for that look. Summer months will be hard with humidity, so keep a frizz serum in your bag.
#6: Ash Brown Feathered Shag That Looks Like It Styled Itself
A lot of effort has gone into creating this hairstyle, although it may look like it didn’t take much effort at all. The choppy fringe that starts right above the eyebrows, along with the layered that bring the pieces up, look even prettier on fine hair because they offer the right amount of separation without looking overly wispy. There is also a little bit of length removed right at the crown, and these rows of internal graduated layers create that necessary volume. The only tricky part is that if you have a cowlick at the crown, you could end up needing to blow dry it or it will just go its own way. However, about 90% of everyone will definitely think that you did some styling to your hair, and that’s a huge win.
#7: Blonde 70s Shag with Money Pieces That Actually Work
Money pieces are definitely played out, but this is a good example of how to use them by brightening the front and then fading. The other sections of the shag have long layers and good razor cuts at the bottom to give that lived in, beachy vibe. If your hair is finer, keep in mind that a shag this long needs enough density to really read as a shag, or else it can end up looking a little flat. Those icy blonde face pieces will go brassy and need to be toned regularly, so keep that in mind in terms of maintenance.
#8: Wispy Curtain Bangs with That Hidden Mullet Layer
I absolutely love the subtle detail on this cut! There’s an underlayer that gives a slight mullet and retro mullet vibe (but isn’t an actual mullet) and the layers behind the ears flip out. I get a lot of requests for that! The see-through curtain bangs are light enough to not overwhelm smaller faces, and they’re hitting that eye-opening bang effect! If your hair is super thin you may find that the curtain doesn’t hold its shape very well. The answer is usually a bit of textured spray on damp hair before you leave it to air dry!
#9: Feathered Shag with the Prettiest Face Framing
What keeps drawing me to this is how perfectly done the face framing is. The graduated layers start at the chin and sweep out in a feathered style which gives a vintage and modern touch all at once. The nape has weight releasing layers which is very smart because it keeps the length without feeling heavy in the back. The waves are a little more than styling is doing most of the work which is ideal for a cut like this. If you have fine and straight hair a round brush may be needed to achieve a similar body. On anyone with some wave, it’ll be styled.
#10: Sunlit Copper Shag with a Curtain Part That Flatters Everyone
The biggest compliment I could give a hair photo is wanting to make my own appointment at that salon. This color has a wonderful sun-kissed dimension to it, and it does not seem overdone. The curtain bangs are also really nice as they highlight the face shape. The cheekbone area is usually where I recommend starting layers because it draws the focus up to the eyes, and I think that is what is happening here. With this kind of thick wavy hair, it is all about secret vertical point texturizing. This way the hair maintains its height and does not form a triangle. Glossing treatments will be necessary to keep that color fresh, but beautiful hair color is always a commitment!
#11: Full Fringe Long Shag with the Prettiest Caramel Babylights
I love how this cut manages to shape all that thick hair! The complete brow-skimming fringe is a full mood with those natural 2B/2C waves. The caramel babylights through a warm base bring a sun-drenched depth that I bet looks even better in real life than in this pic. The long disconnected layers keep the weight under control while also keeping a ton of stunning length. One thing to know is that thick hair with bangs means you’re going to have to get them reshaped often. Those bangs are going to feel heavy and annoying if you don’t keep them trimmed every four weeks, so keep that in mind. The air-dry texture you get with this hair cut is honestly so worth it.
#12: 70s Curtain Bang Shag in That Gorgeous Blue-Black
I’ve always liked how glossy blue-black runs with a shag. It provides a liquid finish to everything. It hits the light in such a way that it provides the look almost makes it feel more in depth. More delicate curtain bangs look soft while internal layers are just void look. It shows signs of a particularly strong cut really well. It’s more trusting with darker colors, but the layers aren’t able to be photographed as vividly. If it’s inspiring, trust that it will look even more better in a way that is too much to explain in words. One thing to keep in dark gloss is that it shows regrowth a lot so remember to keep your colorist very close. To give yourself some added grace, a root shadow offers the opportunity to buy more time.
#13: Long Shag with Rounded Layers and the Softest Side Fringe
This cut’s simplicity is very appealing to me. The layers that frame the face are done in a softened manner as opposed to a choppy look, which is very flattering to most people than the more extreme, aggressive layering that is more common. Just behind the ear there’s a little sneaky underlayer that gives it a slight swing when you move, which is one of those details that wouldn’t be obvious in a picture but is something you would feel right away when you’re wearing it. It will look effortless and chic with little styling on medium density hair, and for finer hair you may need a little more internal layering.
#14: Modern Shag with Blended Micro Bangs and Lots of Texture
I like this micro bang look because it’s softer than blunt micro bangs. The inner layers and point cutting create a lot of movement. The cut shape helps the waves instead of working against them. This look is great for a wash and go style where you add product and walk out looking like you spent more time styling than you actually did. However, the micro bangs are going to require daily maintenance for sure and if you choose to straighten the rest of your hair, the ends may look heavier than you want, so I’d keep it wavy.
#15: Warm Chestnut Shag with the Easiest Grow-Out
I enjoy recommending this color to clients wanting a low-maintenance service but want something that appears intentional. The warm chestnut with soft root melt means your grow-out is basically built into the design so you aren’t panicking at six weeks. The shag is also razor-sliced with long layers that give it an airy quality that I think works especially well on natural waves as it just kind of falls into place. The micro fringe is softer than some of the others we’ve been looking at, which makes it a nice entry point if you’ve never done a short bang before and are apprehensive about it.
#16: Feathered Shag with Curtain Fringe That Opens Everything Up
When getting a new haircut, it is common to want a style that will seem more radiant. This style does just that, and is very specific about how it does it. The layered curtain fringe sections are great for opening up the entire face and framing the eyes. This is one of the biggest reasons I suggest this style to so many clients. The graduated layers from the crown give amazing cascading effects, and the point-cut ends keep everything feeling airy and less heavy for a more free flowing look. With a center cowlick, we would need to talk specifically about fringe placement and the tendency for it to split. That tendency can be easily controlled with some good blow dry techniques.
#17: Ash Bronde Shag with That Retro Wedge Shape
I find something very interesting in this cut. There is a triangle flaring that forms some sort of retro wedge shape, and I think that is what sets this shag apart the most from the rest. It looks very intentional, but not too much. The ashy bronde color with root shadow balayage is a really beautiful refinement for fine hair because it helps create the illusion of density where it’s really needed. If this is the option you go for, you will have to tone it regularly, as the ash tones shift pretty quickly. These micro bangs will also need to be trimmed frequently, but the whole look is so chilled and effortless that it is worth it.
#18: Piecey Textured Shag with That Clever Twist Detail
I must bring attention to the two tiny twists at the front, as they are an incredibly clever styling option. They take the face-framing pieces and pull them forward to reveal the warmer balayage underneath, while avoiding a commitment to having your color up to the roots. For someone wanting to go warmer but not ready to do the full commitment, I think this is such a genius option. The shag itself has been razor textured with a lot of crown lift, and that choppy micro fringe gives it personality. This cut is going to be incredible on medium to thick straight to wavy hair, and the movement that layering creates will be unreal. Depending on where you’re starting from, the lightened ends may require some pre-lifting, so speak to your colorist about that in advance.
#19: Wavy 70s Shag That a Diffuser Was Made For
People, the diffuser + shag combo is a must. This is the cut designed for natural waves, and the way it brings out those loose S-waves is gorgeous. The face framing is a soft graduation from a center partition, and the targeted thinning stops the shape from going too big but still keeps the volume. I’ll say this is one of the more ‘set and forget’ shags in the collection, as in your natural texture does most of the work. If your curls tend to clump together, a light curl cream will help them get along.
#20: Copper Shag with Wispy Micro Bangs and So Much Movement
The movement in this cut is awesome! The thick natural waves paired with layered cuts framing the face creates so much visual interest. It will never be boring or flat from any angle. Micro bangs can either be soft or blunt. I prefer them to be softer because it fits the style better and looks great with all the volume in the hair. If you have crown cowlicks (like in this example) you should ask your stylist to work with it and create layered cuts. The copper color is warm and rich and I have to admit I am a little jealous. A color depositing conditioner can help you keep it that way in between appointments!
#21: Teal Peekaboo Shag for When You Want an Edge
The peekaboo emotions teal is quite possibly the greatest example of how to use restraint against a black base. It has an edgy look but isn’t too out of control or chaotic. The shag cut is a definite timeless classic and this one features long choppy layers, razor-textured ends, and a blunt micro bang. The choice of teal is also well done; it is painted through the mids and ends so it catches the light with movement rather than being right in your face and detracting from the overall look. Just a couple practical notes. If you want green family colors to pop, they will require pre-lightening and they also fade faster than almost any other colors. So, for the health of your hair and overall longevity, I recommend a demi-permanent with a lower lift. I love how micro bangs frame glasses, and I saw that in your photo which I thought was worth bringing up.
#22: Wavy Dark Shag with Layers That Do the Talking
Layers that don’t take much effort are great for this look, and so are those bangs that sit right on top of the forehead, as they can make the style polished but not too over the top. I think this style looks best with the goal of second day hair, so I appreciate that you feel that way! I like how the dark waves in the hair look, and I think they go really well with the combination of a simple and neutral outfit, like a white top and some gold hoops. For those that have a bit bushier hair, for those hair not to be too overwhelming, some thinning is going to be necessary in the inner parts of the cut, this way the hair can move around the layers freely, instead of having them stack on each other with no separation.
#23: Soft Layered Shag with Highlights That Add Just Enough
What I enjoy the most about this shag is how it is more refined compared to others. The layers are gentle and the highlights are more blended so it feels more like I have great hair rather than I just got a haircut. I feel like this look is more challenging and skillful to pull off. On finer hair, these layers do exactly what they are supposed to do, which is create volume and movement without removing too much of the weight. This is the equilibrium you are always aiming for with these finer textures. I tend to imagine it with a particular design of a shape for someone, but it is a low maintenance and effortless looking cut that will look great as it grows out.
#24: Textured Shag with Bold Fringe and the Warmest Copper Highlights
I love how highlights in a shag cut create a multi-dimensional appearance. The warm highlights make the style pop instead of just being a boring solid color. I’m glad the owner loves these highlights; it’s always a challenge to convince clients that highlights will make their hair come alive. A fully straight-across fringe? Love it! None of that side bang or curtain bang nonsense. The waves are super versatile at this length too. You can wear it in a relaxed beachy way, or you can go for a polished clean style. Of course, a little bit of maintenance is required here to keep that intentional fringe looking good, because once it gets shaggy it’s going to lose that magic!
#25: Rich Burgundy Shag with Waves That Catch the Light
I always say the burgundy color photographs 20% better than you would expect and here’s the proof! With the way it captures the light, the hair gets a lovely dimension that would be lacking with a flat brown or black color. The shag sits just under the shoulders with some lovely understated framed layers. Those face-framing pieces around the face are doing something really pretty. With fine to medium density hair like this, that little natural wave is your best friend because it gives the layers something to work with. Burgundy is one of those colors that needs a little love to stay looking fresh so a color-safe shampoo is non-negotiable.
#26: Curly Shag with Soft Fringe That Lives Its Best Life
One of the BEST things about my job is when a new client comes in with natural curls and requests a shag. Curls + shags = MAGIC. Those curls are about to get a ton of personality added to them with the layered shape, and the way each curl gets to do it’s own thing is just going to be so good. The blend of the fringe with the face framing pieces is so effortlessly done. The volume is perfect, not too overwhelming. This indicates the density is just right for that sweet spot. The fullness and volume are spot on! If this is speaking to you and you have curls, PLEASE go to someone who cuts dry curls. The shrinkage on layers is going to be SIGNIFICANT with layers like this so it’s best to go wild so you can see where everything actually lands. A good defining gel scrunched into soaking wet hair is going to be your whole routine.
#27: Long Shag with Subtle Face Framing and Natural Warmth
Great shag cuts are the ones that skip the obvious shag look. In this example, the layers are blended perfectly and the face framing is so subtle that it looks like just really great hair. The warm tones in the color give it even more richness and combined with the medium to thick density, there is plenty of hair to work with. I would recommend this to anyone wanting the benefits of layered looks, including movement, shape, and framing without it being a dramatic departure from what they’ve done before. The crown has soft layers that give it volume in the exact right spot and with natural waves, it will look gorgeous and require very little upkeep.
#28: Feathered Bangs Long Shag with That Effortless Warm Glow
I see the bangs are giving vintage inspired vibes, but in a modern and simple way to style. The bangs are soft and feathery. They blend effortlessly with the longer layers creating a beautifully cohesive soft look. The warmth of the undertones gives a softer and more approachable look to the entire haircut, and also suits various skin tones! With fine hair of less density, the airy quality of the layers is remarkable because that look cannot be achieved in denser hair. So, if you have always considered fine hair to be a disadvantage, this haircut will change your perspective!
#29: Long Shag with Soft Layers That Frame Everything Beautifully
I love this style of cut as it showcases a lot of skill in a more understated kind of way. The face-framing layers enhance the pretty features of the person, and the ends of the layers are soft and feathered. All in all, the loose cut gives form and lightness to the hair, so that the length doesn’t overwhelm or make the hair feel one-dimensional. These layers in fine hair of a slightly wavy texture create that illusion of greater movement and density than the hair has, which is always the goal. If your hair is thicker, you will want to add some internal thinning to achieve the same effect; otherwise, the bottom half can start to feel like a curtain.
#30: Curly Long Shag with Fringe That Lives in Harmony with the Curls
I love it when the pronge on the shag curly cut, works WITH the curl pattern instead of against it, and that’s exactly what’s happening here, and it’s awesome. The defined curls have an awesome energy, and the lightweight fringe, glides, draping seamlessly into the face-framing layers with no awkward gaps. The height coming from the natural density is giving the shag what it needs to feel alive and luscious. I recommend a wide tooth comb to detangle in the shower with your conditioner, then, i’d suggest hands-free styling. The curls will thank you if you let them clump and dry in their natural state. It’s a fun cut with an authentic 70s vibe and soul and BEST part is, you don’t have to fight your texture.
#31: Soft-Layered Long Shag with Those Perfect Subtle Bangs
This hairstyle has a certain softness that I appreciate. The soft layers contribute to the movement of the style without making it too “done.” The bangs blend in so well that they seem like part of the layers rather than a separate piece. This type of layering provides volume in the right spots while keeping the ends thick enough to avoid a thin, wispy look on fine to medium density hair. This shag style works for the person wanting something edgy with a bit of vintage and I see nothing wrong with that.
#32: Long Shag with Textured Layers and That Effortless Quality
Some hairstyles are easy to overlook, but others are more obvious. This particular style has many qualities contributing to its good looks. The soft texturized layers create good movement and are not clumpy and choppy, and the face framing layers soften features beautifully and in a natural way. There are also some layers at the crown scattered to give volume and the waves are soft so each layer catches the waves and gives good natural texture. This cut will give you one of the most desired looks and will make complete strangers think you are naturally lucky rather than starving them of the assumption that you got the style through some medical intervention to alter your human genetic makeup.
#33: Defined Curls Long Shag with Soft Bangs That Know What They’re Doing
What draws my attention with this one is the very defined curls and how the bangs go with them. This is usually not the case. When bangs are cut on curly hair, they often look like they were done in a completely different haircut, but here everything merges into a single texture. The volume is also gorgeous and intentional. You can tell the layering was meant to go with the curl pattern instead of against it. If this is calling out to you, make sure your stylist is familiar with cutting curls in their natural state because a shag curly cut from wet hair and dry hair is literally two different haircuts.
#34: Auburn Shag with Textured Layers and Face-Framing Bangs
I appreciate the use of auburn tones, especially the warmth and beauty the textured layers add through the color. I know the bangs are meant to be made substantial but not heavy, and it is a fine line to walk. You said it was fine, but they overall soften the look and give a balance to the edgier layers that are happening throughout the lengths. I like the waves to be enhanced instead of created because it means less work for you every morning. Hoping to avoid the “I woke up like this” look, I will set the expectation that it will likely require some round brush blowout at the roots and then air dry on the ends, but once you get the rhythm down, it should be quick.
#35: Long Sleek Shag with Face-Framing Pieces That Earn Their Keep
My opinion is that this looks more like a variation on the shag style, and it likely deserves its own category, because not every shag has to be messy and beachy. This demonstrates how the shag cut shape can work equally as well on sleeker and straighter textures. The subtle, face-framing layers are exactly where they need to be, and the layers create movement in the hair that doesn’t have a wave. With long hair like this, it’s important to keep those layers sharp and deliberate. Otherwise, as they get longer, they can start blending into each other, and you end up losing the shape. It goes without saying that regular trims are a must, but the payoff is this elegant, editorial quality that’s pretty hard to beat.
#36: Natural Texture Long Shag That Does Its Own Thing
I appreciate cuts that trust the hair that it is worn on. Layered styles give the freedom to work with natural hair instead of bending it to create arbitrary forms, which is what makes them so fascinating to me. It’s the look that is more effortless, and that gives the feeling of slightly not all the way done, which I appreciate so much more over something that is overly done. Shoulder length hair gives you amazing versatility with the ability to pull it back, but is also short enough to have movement to the hair. It also allows medium density hair to look much more relaxed and easy. If you want to have the freedom to lean into your natural texture, this is the cut for you! A little sea salt spray on damp hair and you’re good to go!
#37: Warm-Toned Long Shag with Waves That Have Weight to Them
I want to comment on how different this shag is to other shag styles made for fine hair. With thick wavy hair, the layering and cutting of the hair has to be done with more finesse to ensure that excess volume is not created where it’s not desired. This cut does well to manage volume because the layering gives enough movement to highlight the waves without the style getting too bulky or heavy. I especially love how the warm tone contributes to the richness and depth of the cut while also complementing the wavy texture. When it comes to shags for thick hair, there is definitely an element of necessity to put time into styling the hair with intention, otherwise the whole thing could end up looking unkempt.
#38: Wispy Bangs Long Shag with That Breezy Layered Effect
Your soft bangs really do have that Françoise Hardy vibe, which might be the most niche compliment you could give to a bang. I mean it in the best possible way though. They are wispy and semi see-through, and I love how they soften your forehead without covering your eyes. It’s a great option for someone who is on the fence about getting a full fringe. The end layering helps the whole cut not feel heavy, which is also good for wavier hair, and gives it that light, airy feel. I really like that the layers are more towards the ends and mid-lengths of the hair, rather than starting further up at the crown, which gives it a more casual look compared to the more extreme styles we have been seeing.
#39: Feathered Voluminous Shag with All the Body You Want
Hair masks and serums are temporary fixes, but a fresh haircut will achieve the ultimate end result. This cut is designed for and will show the most potential on hair that is thick. The layering will create an impressive amount of volume, and the way the cut is structured will allow for even more movement. Light bangs will sit perfectly on your face and hold the framing elements without drawing your attention to the layers. Upkeep on this cut will be fairly frequent, and that will consist predominantly of trims to keep the bangs and layers in a defined state. This cut will show a stunning mass of hair when it is freshly trimmed and styled.
#40: Bohemian Shag with Face Framing and an Ombre That Fades Naturally
This look has a chill and adventurous vibe. You can picture someone at an outdoor market looking relaxed and effortlessly attractive. Soft, natural waves coupled with some air drying are perfectly framed. The contrast from the dark brown roots creates an ideal, effortless grow out look. This cut is ideal for medium to thick dense wavy hair, as there is enough texture and weight to hold the cut. For the waves to maintain their natural pattern and to reduce frizz, lightweight conditioner will be best.
#41: Soft Textured Shag with Crown Lift That Actually Lasts
Let’s look closely at his cut’s crown area. There is some subtle layering there that most people wouldn’t notice yet it makes a huge different. It keeps the top of the head from being flat, which is one of the most common complaints clients with fine wavy hair express. The remaining layers have been softened and textured and the finish is tousled, giving that “I have tons of amazing hair and I just don’t care that much about it” vibe. It’s a clever shape on fine to medium density hair as it keeps the dimension while also adding volume to the ends which is the most sparse looking part with over layering on finer hair. To keep that crown lift all day, use a volumizing mousse at the roots before air drying.
#42: Long Shag with Gentle Fringe and Highlights That Know Their Place
I wish more colorists would notice how the highlights in this example blend with the hair and provide depth and dimension without looking highlighted. The highlights are understated and designed to look more natural. The highlights will not overshadow the movement they created. Soft fringe and long face framing layers look elegant and refined which creates a polished yet relaxed vibe to the overall style. Textured medium and thick hair will give the style the movement it needs to avoid the dreaded solid curtain of hair in one length styles. It’s a put together shag that is right on the top of the trend.
#43: Warm Brown Shag with Curtain Bangs That Frame Perfectly
This video has a lot of volume and length to the hair which provides a lot of strong points and angles as well as breaks to showcase in the finishing. However, regarding the haircut, it is a great example of a perfect blend point with the bangs cut just right to create a perfect transition from the bangs to the layering. The integration of curtain bangs with the layered hair is done nicely and gives the hair a good amount of volume as well. While this haircut is ideal for almost all hair textures, it may require more effort on straight hair to get the style it is meant to have. For finishing the face framing pieces on straight hair, use a large barrel curling iron or styling wand to guide the layers into the right position. Fair warning, once the volume is created it can get a bit messy, so be prepared for that.
#44: Auburn Shag with Layered Waves and Pops of Unexpected Color
The auburn base with the subtle woven purple color surprised me in such a good way! I appreciate a color combination that is different, but still subtle and cohesive. I think it adds something special to the shag cut, and the color choice gives it another layer. The layered waves create stunning movement, and the shape of the cut showcases the color gradation in a way that I think a blunt cut could never achieve. I think this is the type of hairstyle that when you move your head, it feels like a slot machine with different colors catching the light. The layers also enhance the wave pattern and create an organic volume. You will need to maintain the shape with regular cuts, but the effect it creates is absolutely worth the upkeep.
#45: Wavy Shag with Curtain Bangs and Easy, Lived-In Texture
This shag is great for clients who like a rugged and less polished look. The soft curtain bangs create an airy feeling and help showcase the hair’s natural texture. Also, the bangs are layered, which help provide the movement the cut needs. When the hair is past the shoulders, the shag provides a lot of variety and flexibility. It can be worn down, put into a low bun, or even thrown over one shoulder. This shag cut works best on hair that is naturally wavy and has a medium density. The best shags are low maintenance and look good on hair that hasn’t been washed for a few days, which is why your shag will require very little effort to look great. I can promise that with almost 100% certainty.
#46: Playful Shag with Soft Fringe and Layers That Bounce
I love the fun aspect of this haircut. It’s not too serious, the bangs are soft, the layers are bouncy, and they give the impression of having lively hair, which is great. It’s a great haircut when you look in the mirror and feel good about it. The medium to thick density of your hair shows off the layers’ full potential and holds good body and shape, so it works with both straight and wavy hair of similar length. To add more dimension to your layers, I suggest highlights, but a single all over color looks good too.
#47: Bold Bangs Shag with an Ombre That Adds Intrigue
These bangs are not a joke! I really love how bold and strong they are, and given how rounder faces have more of a symmetrical structure to them, these bangs will complement them for sure! The below layers which are left out will give an elongating effect to the opposite of a rounder face shape. The dark to light ombre also gives depth and is a great anchor to the shag for color because the dark ends will not be flat and heavy. With thick hair, this cut will really do wonders because there is enough material for the layers to do most of the work for you. But fair warning, you will need to stay up to date for trims as the bangs grow. Once they grow past the sweet spot, the cut’s balance will all shift. This is a style with personality and unlike many more contemporary styles, it suits a fare range of ages.
#48: Modern Shag with Soft Layers That Keep It Fresh
Some people want a more understated version of the shag haircut, and that’s what this is. There’s a lot more interest in the soft layers than in the over-dramatized versions. The face framing is unobtrusive and subtle enough to enhance your features without drawing attention to itself. Overall, it has a really modern aesthetic that I think works great in jobs where you don’t want your haircut to be the most interesting thing about you. The gentle layering at the ends keeps the hair from turning into a solid wall while also allowing for that thick and shiny look that straight hair gives. It is super easy to style and I really love that this look is so versatile in both business and casual settings.
#49: Auburn Shag with a Statement Fringe
I LOVE that fringe!!! It is definitely giving the cut some edge. The feathered layers create the perfect balance. The rich, warm auburn color is so alive. With medium to thick hair, the color saturation is stunning. The style looks great as is but some fine caramel or gold pieces would add some depth. It’s beautiful just the way it is too. The thing with precise fringes is that they need to be trimmed A LOT. If the fringe is overgrown, it can undermine the whole cut. You should expect to see your stylist every 3 weeks for the bang trims.
#50: Vibrant Red Shag with Wispy Bangs and Real Attitude
This one also deserves a moment. The bright red color and wispy bangs layered cut speak for themselves. The soft bangs and multiple layers create movement to show off all the different shades of red from every angle. For fine to medium density hair, bright red creates the illusion of added thickness. This is a trick I use with clients all the time. You will certainly need more frequent color-depositing appointments since red fades like crazy, but there is nothing like a fresh red!
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