How to Choose the Perfect Haircut for Your Face Shape
- ~ Julie
- Nov 8, 2022
- 3 min read
One of the most common conversations I have with my guests here in my West Columbia hair salon goes something like this: "I want a new haircut… but I have no idea what will actually look good on me."
If that sounds like you, you’re not alone! Choosing the right haircut isn’t just about following trends—it’s about finding a style that works with your natural features, face shape, and hair texture. The goal is always to create balance and highlight what makes you feel beautiful.
As a West Columbia hair stylist serving guests from both West Columbia and Lexington, I’ve spent years helping clients figure out what works for them. So today, I’m sharing some of my best hair stylist advice to help you choose a cut that flatters your face shape and makes you feel amazing.
Why Face Shape Matters
Your face shape can completely change how a haircut looks on you. A style that looks gorgeous on your friend might not have the same effect on you—and that’s totally normal! Certain cuts can enhance your bone structure, soften strong features, or create the illusion of length or width where you want it.
The key is knowing your face shape and choosing a cut that complements it.
How to Determine Your Face Shape
Before we get into haircut suggestions, let’s figure out your face shape. Here’s a simple way to do it:
Pull your hair back and look straight into a mirror.
Pay attention to your hairline, jawline, and the width of your forehead, cheeks, and chin.
Compare what you see to these general categories:
Oval: Forehead is slightly wider than the chin; face is longer than it is wide.
Round: Width and length of the face are roughly equal; soft, curved edges.
Square: Forehead, cheeks, and jawline are about the same width; strong jawline.
Heart: Wider forehead, narrow chin, high cheekbones.
Long/Rectangular: Face is noticeably longer than it is wide; often a strong jawline.
Diamond: Narrow forehead and jawline with wider cheekbones.
Not sure? Don’t worry—I always help my guests figure this out during their appointment.
Best Haircuts for Each Face Shape
Now let’s get to the fun part. Here’s what I recommend for each face shape:
Oval Face
Lucky you—this is considered the most balanced face shape, so almost any haircut will look great.
My advice:
Long layers
Blunt bobs
Shoulder-length cuts
Soft waves
If you want to switch things up, bangs or a strong middle part can add a new dimension without taking away from your natural symmetry.
Round Face
The goal with a round face is to create the illusion of length and reduce the appearance of width.
My advice:
Long, layered cuts that fall below the chin
Side-swept bangs
Soft face-framing layers
Avoid cuts that stop at the cheeks (they can make your face appear wider)
A little length goes a long way in elongating your face shape.
Square Face
Square faces have strong, angular jawlines. The right haircut can soften those lines and add movement.
My advice:
Soft layers
Wispy bangs
Shoulder-length or longer styles with texture
Avoid super blunt cuts that emphasize the jaw
Soft waves and side parts work wonders here.
Heart-Shaped Face
Heart-shaped faces are wider at the forehead and narrower at the chin. The goal is to balance the top and bottom.
My advice:
Chin-length bobs
Side-swept bangs
Long layers that start below the chin
Avoid heavy, straight-across bangs
If you want to highlight your cheekbones, I can shape your layers to draw attention right where you want it.
Long/Rectangular Face
For long face shapes, it’s all about creating width and avoiding anything that elongates the face even more.
My advice:
Shoulder-length cuts with lots of layers
Curtain bangs
Waves and curls
Avoid super long, straight styles without layers
Volume and movement are key.
Diamond Face
Diamond faces are narrow at the forehead and jaw with wide cheekbones.
My advice:
Chin-length bobs
Long, face-framing layers
Curtain bangs or side-swept bangs
Avoid heavy, short bangs
This face shape looks great with volume at the chin and jawline to balance the width of the cheekbones.
My Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, the “perfect” haircut is the one that makes you feel your best. These face shape guidelines are just that—guidelines. I always encourage my guests to bring photos, inspiration, and ideas to their appointment so we can work together to find a cut that suits their style, personality, and lifestyle.
Whether you’re ready for a bold new look or just want to freshen up your current style, I’m here to help. If you’re in West Columbia or coming over from the Lexington scene, I’d love to see you in my chair and help you find the haircut that flatters your face shape and makes you feel confident.
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