How to Choose a Haircut for Your Face Shape

Face shape isn't a set of rules — plenty of iconic looks "break" them. But it is the most reliable starting point for a cut that flatters you from every angle, and it's the first thing your stylist assesses in a consultation.

First: find your shape

Pull your hair back and look at the outline of your face. Widest at the cheekbones with a gently curved jaw is oval. Similar width and length with soft edges is round. A strong, angular jawline close to forehead width is square. A wider forehead tapering to a pointed chin is heart. Noticeably longer than wide is long/oblong.

What tends to work

• Oval: nearly everything — the question becomes texture and lifestyle, not shape. This is where your routine should drive the decision.
• Round: length below the chin, long layers, and volume at the crown elongate. Deep side parts add angles. Avoid width that stops at the cheeks.
• Square: soft layers, side-swept fringe, and waves that start at eye level soften a strong jaw. Blunt one-length lines emphasize it — great if that's the goal.
• Heart: weight at the jawline balances a wider forehead — think chin-length bobs, lobs, and curtain bangs.
• Long: width is your friend — chin-to-shoulder lengths, full fringe, and layers that build side volume rather than more length.

Where face-shape advice goes wrong

Two mistakes we see constantly: choosing a cut from a photo of someone with different texture (a wavy lob behaves nothing like a straight one — see styles by hair texture), and optimizing for shape while ignoring your actual morning routine. The most flattering cut you won't style is less flattering than the second-best cut you will.

Bring it to the chair

Save two or three inspiration photos — including one you think won't work — and let your stylist translate them to your shape, texture, and routine during a cut and style appointment. Questions first? Send them over before you book.