The shag haircut embodies a rock ‘n’ roll vibe—casual, tousled, and effortlessly cool. Characterized by choppy ends, layers around the crown, and abundant texture, shag styles are versatile enough to suit nearly every hair type and length. According to hairstylist Erin Powers, the fringe is a crucial element of this look. “A great shag has to have the fringe just right,” Powers explains. “If it’s not on point, then it doesn’t truly qualify as a shag.”
We’ve compiled our favorite shag styles and consulted Powers, along with hairstylist Kari Bennett, for their top tips on how to style this iconic cut. Keep scrolling for more inspiration and advice!
1. Cropped Pixie Shag
Ginnifer Goodwin demonstrates that pixie cuts can embrace the shag trend as well. The cropped pixie shag features short sides with a longer top, creating a playful and edgy look that combines the best of both styles. This haircut is perfect for those who want a low-maintenance yet stylish option that still offers versatility.
Styling Tips
To style a cropped pixie shag, it’s essential to use a pomade or balm. These products help define the texture and add a bit of shine, allowing you to create that effortlessly tousled appearance. Here’s how to achieve the perfect look.
Start with Clean, Dry Hair: Begin with freshly washed hair. Towel-dry your hair gently to remove excess moisture, as this style works best on dry hair.
Apply Product: Take a small amount of pomade or styling balm and rub it between your palms. Focus on the longer sections on top, applying the product evenly throughout. This will help create texture and hold.
Tousle and Shape: Use your fingers to tousle the hair on top, creating volume and movement. You can also use a comb or your fingers to shape the front fringe, giving it a slightly messy yet intentional look.
Finish with Hairspray: For added hold, finish with a light mist of hairspray. This will help maintain the style throughout the day without making it feel stiff.
Maintenance
The cropped pixie shag is relatively low-maintenance, but regular trims are essential to keep the shape looking fresh. Aim for a trim every 4 to 6 weeks to maintain the length on top and the short sides. Additionally, using good quality shampoo and conditioner will help keep your hair healthy and vibrant, especially if you use styling products frequently.
Versatility
One of the best aspects of the cropped pixie shag is its versatility. Here are a few ways to switch up your look:
Sleek and Polished: For a more sophisticated appearance, you can use a smoothing serum or cream to tame any frizz and create a sleek finish. This is perfect for formal events or professional settings.
Messy and Textured: Embrace the shaggy vibe by adding more product and tousling your hair for a carefree, lived-in look. This style is great for casual outings or weekends.
Accessorize: Consider adding hair accessories like headbands or clips to elevate your look. A colorful headband can add a fun pop of color, while a sleek clip can provide a more polished finish.
Experiment with Color: The cropped pixie shag is an excellent canvas for experimenting with color. Whether you opt for bold highlights, balayage, or a complete color change, the shorter length allows for easy maintenance and a striking appearance.
2. Wolf Cut Shag
Billie Eilish nearly broke the Internet when she debuted her stunning blonde “wolf cut” shag on Instagram, garnering over 23 million likes and counting. This hairstyle has since become a trendsetter, blending the edgy elements of a shag with the playful vibes of a mullet. Eilish’s shorter version of the wolf cut shag perfectly captures the essence of both styles, making it a bold choice for those looking to make a statement.
Characteristics of the Wolf Cut Shag
The wolf-cut shag is characterized by its unique layering and texture. It features short layers on the top that create volume and movement, while longer, choppy layers around the back and sides add depth and a touch of wildness. This haircut is versatile and can be adapted to suit various hair types and lengths, making it a popular choice among those who want a modern, edgy look.
Styling Tips
To achieve the perfect wolf cut shag, follow these styling tips:
Start with Clean, Dry Hair: Begin with freshly washed hair. Towel-dry your hair gently to remove excess moisture, as this style works best on dry hair.
Add Texture: Use a texturizing spray or mousse to enhance your hair’s natural texture. I personally love using sea salt spray for that beachy, tousled look. Apply the product evenly throughout your hair, focusing on the roots for added volume.
Create Volume: Use a round brush while blow-drying to lift the roots and create volume at the crown. For added texture, you can also use a curling wand to create loose waves, especially in the longer layers. I find that a 1.5-inch curling wand works perfectly for creating soft, natural waves.
Define the Layers: To emphasize the choppy layers, use a pomade or styling cream. Take a small amount of product and work it through the ends of your hair, scrunching as you go to create that tousled, effortless look. I often use my fingers to separate the layers for a more lived-in feel.
Finish with Hairspray: For added hold and to maintain the shape throughout the day, finish with a light mist of hairspray. This will help keep your wolf-cut shag looking fresh and styled.
Maintenance
The wolf-cut shag is relatively low-maintenance, but regular trims are essential to keep the layers looking sharp and defined. Aim for a trim every 6 to 8 weeks to maintain the shape and remove any split ends. Additionally, using good quality shampoo and conditioner will help keep your hair healthy and vibrant, especially if you frequently use heat styling tools. I’ve found that sulfate-free products work wonders for maintaining color-treated hair, which is something to consider if you decide to go bold with your color.
Versatility
One of the best aspects of the wolf-cut shag is its versatility. Here are a few ways to switch up your look:
Sleek and Straight: For a more polished appearance, you can straighten your hair and use a smoothing serum to tame any frizz. This sleek version of the wolf-cut shag is perfect for professional settings or formal events.
Messy Bun or Half-Up Style: The wolf cut shag can easily be styled into a messy bun or a half-up ponytail for a chic, off-duty look. Simply gather the top section of your hair and secure it with a hair tie, allowing the rest to fall freely for a relaxed vibe. I love this style for casual outings; it’s quick and looks effortlessly put together.
3. Baby Bang Shullet
If you’re looking to embrace an edgy twist on the classic shag, the baby bang shullet is the perfect choice. This hairstyle combines the playful elements of a shag with the boldness of baby bangs, creating a unique and striking look. The baby bang shullet is ideal for those who want to make a statement while maintaining a sense of fun and creativity in their hairstyle.
Characteristics of the Baby Bang Shullet
The baby bang shullet features short, blunt bangs that frame the face, paired with the layered texture of a shag haircut. The combination of these elements creates a youthful and vibrant appearance, making it a popular choice among trendsetters. The shullet aspect—short in the front and longer in the back—adds an additional layer of dimension and movement, allowing for versatility in styling.
Styling Tips
To achieve the perfect baby bang shullet, follow these styling tips:
Start with Clean, Dry Hair: Begin with freshly washed hair.
Define the Bangs: Use a flat iron or curling wand to style your baby bangs. For a more textured look, you can slightly curl the ends inward or outward. This adds movement and frames your face beautifully.
Add Texture: Apply curly cream or matte pomade to your strands to enhance texture.
Create Volume: Use a round brush while blow-drying to lift the roots and create volume at the crown. This will help give your shullet that signature shaggy appearance.
Finish with Hairspray: This will help keep your baby bang shullet looking fresh and styled without feeling stiff.
Maintenance
The baby bang shullet is relatively low-maintenance, but regular trims are essential to keep the bangs and layers looking sharp. Aim for a trim every 4 to 6 weeks to maintain the shape and remove any split ends. Additionally, using good quality shampoo and conditioner will help keep your hair healthy and vibrant, especially if you frequently use heat styling tools.
4. Wet Look Shag: A Modern Twist on a Classic Style
The wet-look shag is a contemporary hairstyle that has gained popularity for its unique blend of edginess and sophistication. This style, as seen in celebrities like Ashley Graham, offers a fresh take on the traditional shag haircut, making it a go-to choice for those looking to make a bold statement.
What Makes the Wet Look Shag Stand Out?
Sleek and Shiny Finish: The hallmark of the wet-look shag is its glossy appearance, which gives the hair a polished and high-fashion vibe. This finish is achieved through the use of specific styling products that create a wet effect, making the hair look effortlessly chic.
Layered Texture: The shag aspect of this hairstyle features choppy layers that add movement and dimension. These layers can be tailored to suit different face shapes and hair types, allowing for a personalized look that flatters the wearer.
Asymmetrical Design: The asymmetrical parting adds an element of intrigue, making the hairstyle feel modern and dynamic. This feature allows for versatility in styling, as it can be worn in various ways depending on the occasion.
How to Achieve the Wet Look Shag?
Preparation: Start with clean, damp hair. This is crucial for achieving the desired wet look. Use a gentle shampoo and conditioner to ensure your hair is healthy and manageable.
Product Application: Choose a high-quality wet-look gel or styling cream. Apply it generously to your damp hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. This will help create that signature glossy finish.
Drying Technique: For the best results, use a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer. This method enhances the natural texture of the hair while maintaining the wet look. Alternatively, you can let your hair air dry for a more relaxed vibe.
Layer Definition: Once your hair is dry, use a small amount of texturizing cream or pomade to define the layers. Work the product through your hair with your fingers, scrunching to enhance the shaggy texture.
Final Touches: To keep your style in place, finish with a light mist of flexible-hold hairspray.
Styling Variations
The wet-look shag is incredibly versatile, allowing for various styling options:
Casual Chic: For a laid-back look, simply let your hair air dry and embrace the natural texture. This effortless style is perfect for everyday wear.
Glamorous Updo: Pull your hair into a sleek bun or ponytail, leaving some strands loose to frame your face. This sophisticated style is ideal for formal events or nights out.
5. Tapered Shag With Bangs
The tapered shag with bangs, as beautifully exemplified by country music legend Emmylou Harris, is a hairstyle that exudes glamour and sophistication. This look not only highlights her stunning gray hair but also showcases the versatility and timeless appeal of the shag haircut. The combination of long layers and full bangs creates a flattering silhouette that suits a variety of face shapes and hair types.
Key Features of the Tapered Shag With Bangs
Tapered Layers: The tapered shag features longer layers that gradually shorten towards the back, creating a soft, flowing shape. This tapering adds movement and dimension, making the hair look lively and full of texture.
Full Bangs: The addition of full bangs frames the face beautifully, drawing attention to the eyes and cheekbones. Bangs can soften the overall look and add a youthful touch, making this hairstyle appealing for all ages.
Emphasis on Gray Hair: Emmylou Harris’s choice to embrace her gray hair is a powerful statement of confidence and beauty. The tapered shag allows gray hair to shine, showcasing its natural beauty and elegance.
6. Classic Shag
Chloë Grace Moretz perfectly embodies the rock-star essence of the classic shag hairstyle. This iconic look features soft bends, parted curtain bangs, and fluffy ends, creating an effortlessly cool vibe that seems casual yet is meticulously styled. The classic shag is a timeless choice that has made a comeback, appealing to those who want a hairstyle that exudes both attitude and sophistication.
Key Features of the Classic Shag
Soft Bends: The classic shag is characterized by its soft, tousled waves that add movement and texture. These gentle bends create a relaxed look that feels both chic and approachable.
Curtain Bangs: The parted curtain bangs are a signature element of the classic shag. They frame the face beautifully, adding softness and drawing attention to the eyes. This style of bangs is versatile and can be worn with various hair lengths.
Fluffy Ends: The fluffy, textured ends of the shag give it a playful and carefree appearance. This feature is essential for achieving that rock-star aesthetic, making the hairstyle feel lively and dynamic.
7. Blown Out Shag
Rihanna’s blown-out shag in a stunning buttery blonde is a perfect example of how this classic hairstyle can be reimagined with a modern twist. While shags are often associated with a textured, tousled look, Rihanna’s version showcases a sleek, voluminous finish that exudes glamour and sophistication. This blown-out shag is not only eye-catching but also versatile, making it suitable for various occasions.
Key Features of the Blown Out Shag
Sleek Volume: The blown-out shag features a smooth, voluminous appearance that elevates the traditional shag style. This sleekness adds a polished touch, making it perfect for both casual and formal settings.
Buttery Blonde Color: Rihanna’s choice of a buttery blonde hue enhances the overall look, adding warmth and dimension. The color complements the shag’s layers, creating a radiant and luminous effect.
Soft Layers: The shag’s layers are expertly cut to frame the face and add movement without sacrificing the sleekness of the style. This balance between texture and smoothness is what makes the blown-out shag so appealing.
8. Wispy Shag
The wispy shag is a delightful hairstyle that combines softness with a playful edge. This shoulder-length cut features a round shape filled with layers that create movement and texture, making it a versatile choice for various hair types and styles. The feathery ends and soft bangs add a touch of femininity, making the wispy shag a perfect option for those looking to achieve a light and airy look.
Key Features of the Wispy Shag
Shoulder-Length Cut: The wispy shag typically falls around the shoulders, providing a flattering length that is easy to manage while still allowing for styling versatility.
Round Shape: The round shape of the haircut gives it a soft, balanced appearance. This shape is particularly flattering for many face shapes, as it adds volume and frames the face beautifully.
Layered Texture: The numerous layers throughout the haircut create movement and dimension. These layers help to lighten the overall look, making it feel fresh and modern.
Feathery Ends: The ends of the hair are cut to be feathery, which enhances the wispy effect. This feature adds a playful touch and prevents the hair from looking heavy or weighed down.
Soft Bangs: Wispy bangs are a signature element of this hairstyle. They can be styled straight across or parted slightly to the side, adding softness and framing the eyes.
9. Shag With Curtain Bangs
Jennifer Lopez’s side-swept shag, complemented by heavy curtain bangs and an off-centered part, is a hairstyle that effortlessly combines glamour with a touch of casual chic. This look is not only enviable but also incredibly versatile, making it a perfect choice for anyone looking to refresh their style. The shag with curtain bangs is a modern take on a classic cut, offering a flattering silhouette that enhances facial features.
Key Features of the Shag With Curtain Bangs
Side-Swept Shag: The shag cut features layers that are longer in the front and shorter in the back, creating a dynamic shape that adds movement and texture. The side-swept style gives it a relaxed yet polished appearance.
Heavy Curtain Bangs: Curtain bangs are a defining element of this hairstyle. They are typically longer on the sides and blend seamlessly into the rest of the hair, framing the face beautifully and adding softness.
Off-Centered Part: The off-centered part adds an element of asymmetry, which enhances the overall look and gives it a modern twist. This parting style allows for versatility in how the bangs and layers fall.
Color Experimentation: The shag with curtain bangs is a great canvas for experimenting with color. Whether you opt for subtle highlights or a bold color change, the layers will enhance the overall look and dimension of your hair.
10. Shag With Baby Bangs
The shag with baby bangs is a bold and trendy hairstyle that perfectly combines the playful nature of a shag cut with the edgy appeal of short bangs. Emma Watson showcases this look beautifully, demonstrating how baby bangs can enhance the overall style while adding a youthful and modern twist. This hairstyle is ideal for those who want to make a statement and are willing to commit to regular maintenance.
Key Features of the Shag With Baby Bangs
Short, Blunt Bangs: Baby bangs are characterized by their short length, typically cut straight across the forehead. This style draws attention to the eyes and cheekbones, adding a striking focal point to the face.
Layered Shag Cut: The shag itself features choppy layers that create movement and texture. The combination of the shag and baby bangs results in a dynamic look that feels fresh and contemporary.
Youthful Vibe: The pairing of baby bangs with a shag cut gives off a playful, youthful energy. This hairstyle is perfect for those looking to express their individuality and creativity.
11. Undercut Long Shag
The undercut long shag is a daring and stylish choice for those looking to make a bold statement. Jennifer Hudson exemplifies this look with her striking undercut paired with a shag haircut, showcasing how this combination can create a unique and eye-catching style. The undercut adds an edgy twist to the classic shag, making it a perfect option for anyone wanting to express their individuality and confidence.
Key Features of the Undercut Long Shag
Bold Undercut: The defining feature of this hairstyle is the undercut, where one side (or both) of the head is shaved or clipped short. This creates a dramatic contrast with the longer shag layers on top, adding an element of surprise and flair.
Long Shag Layers: The shag portion of the hairstyle features long, choppy layers that provide movement and texture. These layers can be styled to enhance the overall look, making it feel lively and dynamic.
Mussy Definition: The undercut long shag thrives on a slightly tousled, mussy finish. This relaxed vibe adds to the overall edginess of the style, making it perfect for those who want a carefree yet fashionable appearance.
12. ’70s Shag
The ’70s shag is a timeless hairstyle that captures the essence of the era’s free-spirited and bohemian vibe. Lady Gaga’s interpretation of this classic cut showcases the effortless charm of the ’70s shag, characterized by its layered texture and natural movement. This hairstyle is perfect for those looking to embrace a laid-back yet stylish look that exudes confidence and individuality.
Key Features of the ’70s Shag
Layered Texture: The hallmark of the ’70s shag is its choppy, layered texture. The layers are typically longer in the front and shorter in the back, creating a dynamic shape that adds volume and movement.
Natural Finish: One of the defining characteristics of the ’70s shag is its natural, tousled appearance. This style is meant to look effortless, so it’s important to avoid overly polished looks.
Soft Bangs: Many ’70s shags feature soft, wispy bangs that frame the face. These bangs can be styled straight across or parted slightly to the side, adding to the overall relaxed vibe of the hairstyle.
13. Shaggy Pixie
Joan Smalls exemplifies how to rock a shaggy pixie with style and confidence. This modern take on the classic pixie cut features side-swept bangs that are piecey and textured, giving the overall look a retro, mod feel. The shaggy pixie is perfect for those who want a chic, low-maintenance hairstyle that still offers plenty of personality and flair.
Key Features of the Shaggy Pixie
Short Length: The shaggy pixie is characterized by its short length, typically cropped close to the head while maintaining enough length on top to allow for styling versatility.
Textured Layers: The layers in a shaggy pixie are choppy and uneven, creating a sense of movement and dimension. This texture adds a playful element to the hairstyle, making it feel fresh and modern.
Side-Swept Bangs: Side-swept bangs are a defining feature of the shaggy pixie. They are styled to be piecey and soft, framing the face beautifully and adding a touch of elegance to the overall look.
14. Natural Shag
Logan Browning’s long curly style offers a refreshing take on the traditional shag haircut. While it may not fit the classic shag mold, the short layers cut into her natural curls echo the choppy, slightly A-frame nature of a shag ‘do. This hairstyle beautifully combines the essence of a shag with the bounce and texture of natural curls, making it a perfect choice for those who want to embrace their hair’s natural beauty while still enjoying a stylish cut.
Key Features of the Natural Shag
Curly Texture: The natural shag is characterized by its curly texture, which adds volume and movement. The curls create a lively and dynamic appearance, making the hairstyle feel fresh and vibrant.
Short Layers: The incorporation of short layers throughout the hair helps to enhance the shag-like quality. These layers provide definition and shape, allowing the curls to bounce and frame the face beautifully.
A-Frame Silhouette: The slightly A-frame shape of the hairstyle gives it a modern twist. This silhouette is flattering for various face shapes and adds a touch of sophistication to the overall look.
15. Center-Parted Long Curly Shag
Iman’s center-parted long curly shag is a stunning hairstyle that beautifully showcases her luscious locks. This look features cascading curls that fall gracefully past her décolletage, creating a sense of elegance and movement. The addition of shine spray enhances the overall appearance, giving the hair a radiant glow that draws attention and highlights the texture of the curls.
Key Features of the Center-Parted Long Curly Shag
Long, Cascading Curls: The long curly shag is characterized by its flowing curls that add volume and movement. These curls create a dynamic look that feels both glamorous and effortless.
Center Parting: The center parting is a defining feature of this hairstyle, providing symmetry and balance. This parting style allows the curls to frame the face beautifully, enhancing facial features.
Textured Layers: The shag aspect of the hairstyle includes textured layers that add depth and dimension. These layers help to lighten the overall look, making it feel airy and lively.4. Shiny Finish: The use of shine spray elevates the hairstyle, giving it a polished and healthy appearance. This glossy finish enhances the curls and adds a touch of sophistication.