Shoulder length hair falls between the collarbone and the top of the shoulders. It's the most common medium length, and it can be cut blunt, layered, shaggy or with bangs. Here's what sets it apart, who it suits, what to ask your stylist for and how to style it.
Shoulder length hair at a glance
- Length: Collarbone to shoulder
- Shape: Blunt, layered or shaggy
- Maintenance: Low
- Trim every: 8 to 10 weeks
What makes it different
It's long enough to tie up and curl, and short enough to dry quickly and look deliberate. It's also the easiest length to change from.
Who it suits
Every face shape and hair type. Blunt ends make fine hair look thicker; layers remove bulk from thick hair; and curls need shaping so they don't form a triangle.
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 shoulder length hair
- Say exactly where the ends should rest: on the collarbone or on the shoulder.
- Say blunt or layered.
- Mention how you usually style it, so the cut works air dried too.
- Bring a photo. Stylists use these names differently, and a picture removes the guesswork.
How to style it
At this length the ends flip on the shoulders. Either smooth them under with a round brush or lean into it with loose waves.
Variations
- Lob: a blunt long bob at the collarbone.
- Medium-length layers: movement and volume.
- Shoulder-length shag: choppy layers and a fringe.
- Shoulder-length hair with curtain bangs: soft framing.
Try it before you cut
A haircut takes months to grow out. Upload a selfie to the AI hairstyle changer and see shoulder length hair on your own face, next to up to three other styles.
Related haircuts
FAQ
What is shoulder length hair?
Shoulder length hair falls between the collarbone and the top of the shoulders.
Who suits shoulder length hair?
Every face shape and hair type. Blunt ends make fine hair look thicker; layers remove bulk from thick hair; and curls need shaping so they don't form a triangle.
How often does it need a trim?
About every 8 to 10 weeks.
