Picking the perfect haircut can feel overwhelming with so many styles out there, but your face shape is a key factor to consider. Just as certain outfits highlight different body types, the right haircut can enhance your natural features and suit your face shape.
This guide will help you with the process of selecting the most flattering barber haircuts.
Identify Your Face Shape:
First, determine your basic face shape. Pull your hair back and look straight into a mirror. Trace the outline of your face on the glass with a bar of soap or take a selfie and trace the outline on paper. Compare this shape to common categories.
- An oval face is longer than it is wide, with a rounded jaw and forehead.
- A round face has similar width and length with soft, curved lines.
- A square face features a strong, wide jaw and a broad forehead with minimal curvature.
- A rectangular (or oblong) face is noticeably longer than it is wide, often with a straight cheek line.
- A heart-shaped face has a wider forehead and cheekbones that taper to a narrow chin.
- A diamond shape presents narrow forehead and jaw with wider cheekbones.
Styles for Oval, Round, and Square Faces:
An oval face shape suits many styles. Focus on maintaining this natural balance. Avoid heavy fringes or excessive volume on top that can elongate the face. Classic side parts, textured crops, and most short back and sides work well.
For a round face, choose styles that add structure and create angles. Build height on top with styles like pompadours or quiffs to lengthen the face. Keep the sides relatively short and clean. Sharp side parts and flat tops also introduce definition that counters soft curves.
A square face has strong angles. Your aim is to soften these lines slightly. Add some volume on top with texture, but avoid styles that are too boxy. A classic scissor-cut side part or a medium-length textured cut works. You can wear the sides slightly longer than a close shave to prevent emphasizing the jawline further.