A shag is a heavily layered haircut with choppy ends, shorter layers around the crown and usually a fringe. The layers are cut at different lengths all over the head. Here's what sets it apart, who it suits, what to ask your stylist for and how to style it.
Shag haircut at a glance
- Length: Any length
- Shape: Choppy layers throughout, with bangs
- Maintenance: Low
- Trim every: 8 to 10 weeks
What makes it different
It came from the 1970s and is meant to look tousled and textured. The modern shag is softer, with more blended layers.
Who it suits
Wavy and curly hair especially, and most face shapes. Layers around the cheekbones flatter long and oval faces. Very fine, straight hair needs fewer layers to keep some density.
Not sure about your face shape? Find it with the free face shape detector, or read our guide to face shapes.
How to ask your stylist for a shag haircut
- Ask for a shag with layers around the crown and face.
- Say how choppy or how blended you want it.
- Choose the bangs: curtain, wispy or full.
- Bring a photo. Stylists use these names differently, and a picture removes the guesswork.
How to style it
Apply mousse or sea salt spray and air dry or diffuse. The shag is meant to be low effort.
Variations
- Short shag: chin to shoulder length.
- Curly shag: layers that shape and lift curls.
- Shaggy bob: a bob with shag layering.
- Wolf cut: a shag with a longer back.
Try it before you cut
A haircut takes months to grow out. Upload a selfie to the AI hairstyle changer and see a shag haircut on your own face, next to up to three other styles.
Related haircuts
FAQ
What is a shag haircut?
A shag is a heavily layered haircut with choppy ends, shorter layers around the crown and usually a fringe.
Who suits a shag haircut?
Wavy and curly hair especially, and most face shapes. Layers around the cheekbones flatter long and oval faces.
How often does it need a trim?
About every 8 to 10 weeks.
