Here's Exactly How To Make The Shag Haircut Work For You
Blame the start of a New Year or the universal urge to start afresh, but there’s something about this time of year that makes us want to change things up.
The easiest way to revamp your look? A fresh haircut. If you’ve already experimented with a bob or dabbled with extensions, maybe it’s time to try something entirely new. Enter: the shag haircut. With its effortless layers and relaxed vibe, the modern shag is having a serious moment. From what to ask your hairdresser for to the best celebrity inspiration – we round up everything you need to know before getting the chop.
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What is the shag haircut?
‘A shag hairstyle is a 1970s-inspired look defined by soft, choppy layers,’ explains Ryan Forsythe, artistic education director at Trevor Sorbie. ‘The shape features shorter layers on top and around the face, with longer lengths at the back. This versatile style can be worn tousled and full of volume for a bold statement or styled effortlessly relaxed for a more laid-back vibe.’
Unlike the precise cuts dominating recent years, the shag is all about texture and personality. ‘A shag haircut is what I like to call a dirty rock ‘n roll statement look,’ says Hasan Sahin, stylist at Larry King Marylebone and South Kensington. ‘It’s a hybrid of choppy, textured layers that feels edgy but wearable.’
The modern shag has a devoted celebrity following, and it’s easy to see why. ‘Jenna Ortega is a great reference for a strong bob shag haircut,’ says Sahin. ‘For something softer, Taylor Swift’s take (in 2018) on the shag is perfect.'
How to make a shag haircut work for you?
The best part about the modern shag is its adaptability, but Sahin notes it’s not necessarily a one-size-fits-all cut. ‘I personally wouldn’t recommend a shag haircut for those with really fine hair, as it’s based on heavily-layered pieces,’ he says. ‘However, you can incorporate elements of a shag, especially if you’re considering a fringe or grown-out curtain bangs. Take the shape wider and carve the sides to connect the back without overly layering the top.’
For those with thicker hair, Sahin suggests opting for square layers. ‘The length of the layers can be adjusted depending on how dramatic you want the look to be,’ he explains. The key is to find a balance that works with your hair’s natural texture and your styling routine.
How to style a shag haircut
Once you’ve committed to the shag, styling it is refreshingly low-key. ‘The Larry King A Social Life For Your Hair Cream will be your best friend,’ says Sahin. ‘Run it through damp hair and rough-dry the roots to create volume and texture. Once dry, you can use straighteners or curlers to add random kinks to individual strands.’
The beauty of the shag is all about embracing its imperfections. ‘The best way to style a shaggy haircut is to embrace the dishevelled look,’ Sahin adds. Think lived-in and intentionally messy, rather than over-styled.
Still deciding if the shag is for you? Scroll for some of our favourite modern shag haircuts…
The Mullet Shag
Want to really embrace the shag? Former ELLE cover star Lizzo’s cut blends the shag with a modern mullet for an edgy cut that’s surprisingly wearable.
The Wavy Shag
Soft and wavy, this shag style on model and Squid Game star HoYeon Jung is perfect for those wanting to embrace the movement and texture in their hair.
The Shaggy Bob
Jenna Ortega’s bob has become a synonymous reference for the modern shag haircut.
The Subtle Shag
If you’re still on the fence as to whether you can pull off a shag haircut, go for something soft and face-framing.
The '70s Shag
Perfect for those with natural waves or curls, this throwback hairstyle is the ultimate low-maintenance cool cut.
The Polished Shag
The shag haircut doesn’t have to be messy. Suki Waterhouse’s elegant cut showcases a shag cut that’s perfect for sleeker hair styles.
The Wolf Shag
Another iteration of the shag haircut? The wolf cut. Perfect for those with finer hair types, it creates volume and shagginess – no matter how fine your hair is.
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