Shoulder-length haircuts are finally getting the love they deserve—at least, as much as extra-long layers and itty-bitty bobs. When you think about it, medium lengths bring the best of both worlds. They have all the bouncy styling potential of a shorter chop while maintaining enough length to experiment with layers, updos, and a variety of styles. Not to mention, face-framing mid-length cuts are universally flattering and work beautifully on a wide range of hair textures.
If you have a hard time growing your hair out, or if you’re considering ditching some length, a shoulder-length cut is the ideal choice. The lob (that is, a longer take on the classic bob) is one of the most beloved cuts for a reason: “It has the option to look both long and short, and has so many styling options,” says Ryan Trygstad, co-owner of New York City’s Mark Ryan Salon. “They can be waved for a beachy look, air-dried for a lived-in cool-girl look, or flatironed for a sleek, polished look.”
Even beyond the mighty lob, there are so many shapes and styles to play with in the mid-length range. Whether you’re hoping boost you curl definition or looking for a sleek, modern look, there’s a shoulder-skimming haircut that was made for you.
Is a shoulder-length haircut good for every hair type and texture?
“To me, this cut and length works well on pretty much every hair type and texture,” says celebrity hairstylist and Sun Bum ambassador Kiley Fitzgerald. “It’s just about finding the right way to style the cut that works best for you. Whether that’s a blowout or embracing your hair’s natural structure, this cut is super flattering.”
“For straight hair and thin hair, this cut can add more volume and make fine hair seem fuller,” says Gregga Prothero, a hairstylist and founder of Gregga LA salon. By taking some length off the hair, it won’t be as weighed down and you can more easily manipulate some lift at the roots for a more volume-forward appearance.
If you have more textured hair, cutting it can enhance the curls, making them appear curlier and hair overall thicker. For thick hair and medium hair, a lot of stylists will thin out the hair a bit before cutting it to a medium length so that there’s more movement and it won’t feel too heavy.
Do shoulder-length hairstyles work on every face shape?
“A shoulder-length cut with shorter angles will help to draw focus to the cheekbones,” says Prothero. This can help round out longer face shapes; however, if you have rounder face, tehn you would do well to stick to longer layers and maybe incorporate a side-bang moment to create more angles rather than accentuate the roundness.
Feeling inspired? Ahead, we rounded up the best shoulder-length haircuts to try if you’re ready to go a little shorter, plus some hair-color ideas that flatter this length of cut. Scroll on for all the inspo you’ll need.
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