Looking to update your hairstyle? Shoulder length hair could be the perfect change you’ve been waiting for. It’s versatile, easy to manage, and adds that perfect amount of bounce without the commitment of long hair.
Whether looking for a classic bob, soft layers, or a sleek straight look, shoulder length haircuts can offer endless styling possibilities.
This length works well with fine and thick hair, giving you a naturally polished yet effortless appearance. You can experiment with textures, from beachy waves to straight and sleek, and still maintain a fresh, modern vibe.
“To ensure your shoulder length hair stays healthy and stylish, keep your ends trimmed regularly and use a lightweight styling mousse to add volume,” — Emma Reed, Hair Stylist
Ready to give it a try? Shoulder length haircuts are great for those who want the freedom of a short cut with the flexibility to experiment.
Plus, it’s flattering for all face shapes, making it an easy choice for anyone looking to update their hairstyle. So, why wait? This haircut could be the refresh you’ve been craving!
Tips for Shoulder Length Haircut
Here are some essential tips for rocking a shoulder length haircut:
- Regular Trims: Keep your ends healthy and prevent split ends by trimming every 6-8 weeks.
- Add Layers: Soft layers can add volume and texture, giving your hair a more dynamic look.
- Use Lightweight Products: Opt for a lightweight mousse or styling cream to add volume without weighing your hair down.
- Embrace Natural Texture: Let your natural waves or curls shine by using minimal heat styling.
- Go for Textured Styles: Experiment with beachy waves or tousled styles for a carefree, chic vibe.
- Mind the Face Shape: Tailor the length of the cut to your face shape for a flattering look.
- Protect from Heat: Always use a heat protectant before styling to avoid damage from curling irons or straighteners.
- Use a Wide-Tooth Comb: Gently detangle your hair with a wide-tooth comb to prevent breakage.
- Boost Shine: Use a light hair serum or oil to add shine and keep your hair looking healthy.
Before we get into the different types of shoulder length haircuts, it’s important to remember that this length offers a perfect balance of versatility and style. Whether you prefer a sleek, polished look or something more relaxed and textured, shoulder length cuts can be customized to suit any personality and lifestyle. Now, let’s explore some of the best options you can try with this flattering length!
1. Blunt Bob
A blunt bob is a bold and sharp hairstyle where the hair is cut straight across at shoulder length, without any layers. It creates a clean, modern look with no soft edges, making it perfect for those who love structured, precise styles. This cut works especially well for straight hair and is a versatile option for both professional and casual settings.
How to get the hairstyle:
- Ask for a straight-across cut at shoulder length.
- Ensure the cut is even all around to create that sharp, defined look.
- Blow-dry with a flat brush to maintain sleekness and volume.
- For a polished look, use a flat iron to straighten your hair.
- Apply a smoothing serum to keep the ends smooth and shiny.
Tips for the hairstyle:
- Regular trims every 6-8 weeks are essential to keep the cut sharp.
- Use a heat protectant before straightening to avoid damage.
- Consider adding a slight side part to break up the straight lines and add volume.
- Avoid heavy products to maintain the clean, sharp finish.
Also Try: 47 Bob Hairstyles For Black Women
2. Textured Lob (Long Bob)
The textured lob is a longer version of the classic bob that falls just above or at the shoulders. This cut incorporates subtle layers to create volume and movement. It’s perfect for those who love a stylish yet effortless look, offering versatility for both casual and formal occasions.
How to get the hairstyle:
- Request a lob that sits at the shoulders or just below.
- Ask for light layers around the face and ends to enhance texture and volume.
- Blow-dry upside down to give your hair added lift and volume.
- Use a curling wand to add loose waves for a more textured appearance.
- Finish with a sea salt spray to enhance the beachy look.
Tips for the hairstyle:
- Use a texturizing spray to create volume and avoid limp hair.
- If you have thin hair, keep the layers subtle to prevent them from looking too choppy.
- Regular trims are important to keep the lob looking fresh and prevent split ends.
- Embrace your natural texture for an easy, low-maintenance style.
Also Try: 20 Classy Bob Haircut Ideas
3. Shoulder Length Layered Cut
A shoulder-length layered cut adds depth and volume to your hair by incorporating layers that start from the chin and taper down to the shoulders. This style provides movement and fullness, making it perfect for anyone looking to add texture and dimension to their hair.
How to get the hairstyle:
- Ask for layers that begin around your chin and gradually taper towards the ends.
- Ensure the layers blend smoothly for a soft, flowing look.
- Blow-dry your hair with a round brush to add volume at the roots.
- Use a flat iron to curl the ends slightly for a more natural, wavy look.
- Apply a lightweight mousse or styling cream for added volume.
Tips for the hairstyle:
- Layered cuts work well with both straight and wavy hair.
- Regular trims help to maintain the layers and prevent them from looking uneven.
- Use a light texturizing spray to keep the layers bouncy and full.
- Don’t over-style; let the layers naturally flow for a more effortless look.
4. Shaggy Bob
The shaggy bob is a fun, textured cut that combines a bob with lots of choppy layers for a messy, lived-in look. This style is ideal for those who want to rock a carefree, edgy vibe without spending too much time styling their hair. It works particularly well with wavy or curly hair.
How to get the hairstyle:
- Ask for a bob cut with choppy, uneven layers throughout.
- Focus on layering around the face to create a more dramatic effect.
- Scrunch your hair while drying to enhance the natural texture.
- Use a flat iron to create soft waves for a more relaxed, lived-in look.
- Finish with a texturizing spray for extra volume and movement.
Tips for the hairstyle:
- Shaggy bobs work best with wavy or textured hair, so embrace your natural curl.
- Regular trims help to maintain the messy, tousled effect.
- Use dry shampoo to add volume and texture between washes.
- Avoid heavy styling products to keep the cut looking light and airy.
Also Try: 25 Classy Short Shaggy Hairstyle Ideas
5. Side-Swept Shoulder Cut
A side-swept shoulder cut is an elegant and flattering style where one side is slightly longer than the other, creating a soft asymmetry. This cut adds volume and movement to the hair, giving it a graceful, flowing appearance. It’s ideal for those who like a chic, sophisticated look with a bit of edge.
How to get the hairstyle:
- Ask for a shoulder-length cut with one side longer than the other.
- Add soft layers around the face to create volume and movement.
- Blow-dry your hair with a round brush while creating a deep side part.
- Use a curling iron to add soft waves to the longer side for texture.
- Finish with a lightweight hairspray to keep everything in place.
Tips for the hairstyle:
- A side part enhances the volume and asymmetry of the look.
- Regular trims help maintain the shape of the longer side.
- Use a shine serum to smooth any flyaways and add a polished finish.
- This cut works well for both straight and slightly wavy hair textures.
6. Beach Waves Shoulder Cut
Beach waves are a relaxed, carefree hairstyle that can be worn every day for an effortless look. When paired with shoulder-length hair, it creates a fun, voluminous style that’s perfect for a laid-back vibe or a weekend getaway. This style works great for creating that “just got out of bed” look while still looking put together.
How to get the hairstyle:
- Ask for a shoulder-length cut with light layers to enhance texture.
- Use a curling wand to create loose waves throughout the hair.
- Apply a sea salt spray before styling to boost texture and volume.
- Scrunch your hair with your hands while drying to add to the beachy look.
- Finish with a diffuser to dry your hair while maintaining the natural wave.
Tips for the hairstyle:
- Beach waves work best with naturally wavy hair, but they can also be created with straight hair using a curling wand.
- Avoid over-styling the waves; the more natural, the better.
- Use a texturizing spray to add grip and volume to the waves.
- Regular trims help keep the waves fresh and the ends healthy.
7. Angled Bob
An angled bob is a stylish and modern cut where the back is shorter than the front, creating an angled shape. This hairstyle adds structure and shape to shoulder-length hair, making it a great option for anyone who wants a fashionable, edgy look that still remains versatile.
How to get the hairstyle:
- Ask for a bob where the back is cut shorter and the front is angled down towards the shoulders.
- Ensure that the angle is soft yet noticeable for a clean, sharp look.
- Blow-dry your hair straight with a round brush for smoothness and volume.
- Use a straightener to add sleekness to the angles.
- Apply a lightweight serum to add shine and keep the hair smooth.
Tips for the hairstyle:
- The angled bob works best with straight or slightly wavy hair.
- Keep the angles sharp with regular trims to avoid them looking uneven.
- Use a heat protectant before using a flat iron to keep the hair healthy.
- Apply a serum to tame flyaways and enhance the sleek finish.
8. Blunt Cut with Bangs
A blunt cut with bangs combines the sharpness of a blunt bob with the added drama of straight-across bangs. This combination gives a bold, edgy appearance while framing the face beautifully. It’s perfect for those who want a more daring, yet chic hairstyle.
How to get the hairstyle:
- Ask for a blunt shoulder-length cut with straight-across bangs.
- Make sure the bangs are cut evenly and sit just above the eyebrows for a bold look.
- Blow-dry straight to maintain the sleek, clean lines of the cut.
- Use a flat iron to smooth the bangs and the ends of the hair.
- Finish with a lightweight hairspray to keep the bangs in place.
Tips for the hairstyle:
- Avoid using heavy products to maintain the crispness of the cut.
- Regular trims are necessary to keep the bangs sharp and neat.
- Use a straightening serum or spray to avoid frizz in the bangs.
- This cut is best suited for straight hair, but can also work on slightly wavy textures.
9. Soft Curls Shoulder Cut
Soft curls at shoulder length create a voluminous and feminine look. This hairstyle gives the hair body and movement without being too structured. It’s perfect for those who want a polished yet playful style.
How to get the hairstyle:
- Ask for shoulder-length hair with some soft layers to add volume.
- Use a curling iron with a medium barrel to create soft, bouncy curls.
- Curl the hair in different directions for a more natural, tousled effect.
- Blow-dry your hair with a round brush before curling to enhance volume.
- Finish with a flexible-hold hairspray to keep the curls in place.
Tips for the hairstyle:
- Use a curling iron with a larger barrel for looser curls that look more natural.
- Don’t over-curl; keep the curls soft and loose for a more relaxed look.
- Apply a serum or hair oil to smooth down frizz and add shine.
- Regular trims will keep the curls looking fresh and prevent split ends.
10. Curly Shoulder Cut
Curly hair at shoulder length creates a voluminous and textured look that’s full of life. This style works particularly well with naturally curly hair, enhancing its natural texture and providing movement.
How to get the hairstyle:
- Ask for shoulder-length hair with layers to prevent it from becoming too bulky.
- Enhance your natural curls with a curling cream or mousse to boost texture.
- Dry your hair using a diffuser to add volume and control frizz.
- Scrunch your hair gently as you dry it to encourage the curl pattern.
- Finish with a curl-defining gel or serum for added hold.
Tips for the hairstyle:
- Use products that are specifically designed for curly hair to keep the curls defined.
- Avoid brushing your curls, as it can lead to frizz and disrupt the curl pattern.
- Trim regularly to avoid split ends and maintain the shape of the curls.
- For a more defined curl, consider using a curling iron on the ends.
11. Wavy Shoulder Cut
A wavy shoulder cut offers soft, natural waves that give the hair movement and texture. This style is perfect for creating a casual, beachy look that’s easy to maintain.
How to get the hairstyle:
- Ask for shoulder-length hair with soft, subtle layers to create movement.
- Use a curling wand or flat iron to add waves throughout the hair.
- To keep the waves relaxed, curl the hair in alternating directions.
- Apply sea salt spray to enhance the natural texture and give it a beachy finish.
- Finish with a flexible-hold hairspray for texture without crunch.
Tips for the hairstyle:
- Avoid over-curling for a more natural, effortless look.
- Use a light mousse to add volume and texture without weighing the hair down.
- For more body, blow-dry your hair upside down before styling.
- Use a heat protectant spray to prevent damage when styling with hot tools.
12. Layered with Bangs
Layered shoulder-length hair with bangs creates a soft, textured look that frames the face beautifully. This style adds volume while keeping the bangs youthful and fresh, making it a versatile choice.
How to get the hairstyle:
- Ask for shoulder-length layers with bangs that fall just above your eyebrows.
- Have your stylist layer the hair to create volume around the face.
- Blow-dry the bangs straight and the layers using a round brush for volume.
- Use a straightener to smooth the bangs if needed.
- Apply a light styling cream to keep the layers smooth without weighing them down.
Tips for the hairstyle:
- Regular trims are essential to maintain the shape of the bangs.
- Use a heat protectant before straightening to avoid damage to the bangs.
- If you have thicker hair, ask for lighter bangs to avoid bulkiness.
- A texturizing spray can help enhance the layers and keep the bangs soft.
13. Asymmetrical Bob
An asymmetrical bob is a modern cut with one side longer than the other, offering a sleek, edgy appearance. It’s ideal for those who like to stand out and enjoy a chic, structured look.
How to get the hairstyle:
- Ask for a bob with the back shorter than the front, creating an asymmetrical shape.
- Make sure the longer side is cut to the desired length while keeping the back crisp.
- Blow-dry the hair straight using a flat brush for a sleek, polished finish.
- Use a straightener for a smooth, shiny look.
- Apply a lightweight serum to prevent frizz and add shine.
Tips for the hairstyle:
- This style works best on straight or slightly wavy hair.
- Keep the edges sharp by getting regular trims.
- Use a flat iron to maintain the sleek look and avoid a messy appearance.
- Apply a smoothing serum for a polished finish.
14. Choppy Shoulder Cut
The choppy shoulder cut creates a textured, uneven look with layers that vary in length. It’s perfect for those who want an edgy style that’s easy to maintain and doesn’t require much styling.
How to get the hairstyle:
- Ask for shoulder-length hair with varying lengths of layers.
- Make sure the layers are choppy and uneven for that edgy, textured look.
- Blow-dry using your fingers for a more natural, tousled finish.
- Use a texturizing spray to enhance the choppy effect.
- For more volume, try using a dry shampoo to add texture.
Tips for the hairstyle:
- Choppy cuts work well with fine or medium hair textures, adding volume and body.
- Avoid heavy styling products to keep the texture light and airy.
- Regular trims will keep the layers looking fresh and prevent them from becoming too messy.
- Use a lightweight texturizing spray to keep the hair from looking flat.
15. Retro Waves Shoulder Cut
Retro waves at shoulder length create a glamorous and sophisticated look, perfect for those who love vintage-inspired styles. This hairstyle adds elegant, bouncy waves that are ideal for special occasions or a classy everyday look.
How to get the hairstyle:
- Ask for a shoulder-length cut with subtle layers to give the waves movement.
- Use a curling iron or wand to create defined waves, curling each section away from the face.
- After styling, set the waves with a flexible-hold hairspray.
- Use a comb to gently separate the waves for a more vintage look.
- Apply a light serum to smooth the hair and add shine.
Tips for the hairstyle:
- Retro waves work best on hair with some length and volume.
- Avoid using heavy products to keep the waves soft and bouncy.
- Set the waves with a bit of hairspray to ensure they last throughout the day.
- Use a wide-tooth comb to separate the waves without making them frizzy.
16. Sleek and Straight Shoulder Cut
For a chic and sophisticated look, a sleek and straight shoulder cut is perfect. This style is ideal for those who prefer a polished, no-fuss look that complements both casual and formal settings.
How to get the hairstyle:
- Ask for a shoulder-length cut with no layers for a smooth, uniform finish.
- Blow-dry your hair straight using a flat brush to keep the look sleek.
- Use a straightener to smooth the hair and add shine.
- Apply a lightweight serum for added shine and smoothness.
- Finish with a light-hold hairspray to keep the style in place.
Tips for the hairstyle:
- Regular trims are important to maintain the sleek and straight shape.
- Use a heat protectant before styling with hot tools to avoid damage.
- For added shine, use a light serum or hair oil.
- Avoid heavy products to maintain the light, polished finish.
17. Voluminous Shoulder Cut
A voluminous shoulder cut is perfect for those who want fuller hair with lots of body and bounce. This style adds thickness and movement, making it ideal for fine or limp hair.
How to get the hairstyle:
- Ask for shoulder-length hair with layers to add volume.
- Blow-dry your hair upside down to add lift at the roots.
- Use a round brush to create volume and smoothness while drying.
- Apply a mousse or volumizing spray to boost body.
- Finish by curling the ends slightly to add movement.
Tips for the hairstyle:
- Use a thickening mousse to add volume to fine hair.
- Regular trims help prevent the cut from becoming too flat or bulky.
- Avoid using heavy products that can weigh the hair down.
- For added volume, use a root-lifting spray before blow-drying.
18. Classic Bob with Waves
A classic bob with waves combines the elegance of a bob with the casual, relaxed vibe of waves. It’s perfect for those who want a timeless yet stylish look that works for any occasion.
How to get the hairstyle:
- Ask for a classic bob cut that sits at your shoulders.
- Add loose waves using a curling wand or flat iron for soft texture.
- Blow-dry your hair using a round brush to add volume.
- Use a flexible-hold hairspray to keep the waves intact.
- Apply a light serum to add shine and reduce frizz.
Tips for the hairstyle:
- This cut works well for both fine and thick hair, adding texture and volume.
- Use a lightweight styling cream to keep the waves soft and natural.
- Avoid curling your hair too tightly; the look should be soft and loose.
- Regular trims are essential to maintain the shape of the bob.
19. Side-Parted Shoulder Cut
The side-parted shoulder cut offers a flattering, face-framing look with volume and movement. This style works beautifully for people with round faces or anyone looking to add more structure to their hairstyle.
How to get the hairstyle:
- Ask for a shoulder-length cut with layers to create volume and movement.
- Create a deep side part to add fullness to the hair.
- Blow-dry using a round brush to lift the roots and add volume.
- Use a curling iron to curl the ends slightly for added texture.
- Finish with a light-hold hairspray for lasting volume.
Tips for the hairstyle:
- A side part is great for adding volume to fine or flat hair.
- Use a volumizing spray or mousse to enhance fullness.
- Keep the layers soft to avoid too much bulk.
- For added shine, apply a light serum or hair oil.
20. Wispy Shoulder Cut
A wispy shoulder cut adds texture and movement with soft, wispy layers that frame the face. This style is perfect for those who want a light, airy look without too much bulk.
How to get the hairstyle:
- Ask for a shoulder-length cut with wispy layers around the face.
- Keep the layers light and airy to create movement.
- Blow-dry with a round brush to enhance volume and smoothness.
- Use a flat iron to add gentle waves or curls for texture.
- Finish with a light styling spray to keep the wispy layers in place.
Tips for the hairstyle:
- Wispy cuts are ideal for adding softness and lightness to thicker hair.
- Regular trims are important to keep the wispy effect intact.
- Use a texturizing spray to enhance the airy, light layers.
- Avoid heavy products to keep the cut looking fresh and light.
FAQs
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Which cut is best for shoulder-length hair? | The best cuts for shoulder-length hair include the blunt bob, textured lob, and layered cuts. These styles add movement, volume, and shape to shoulder-length hair. |
| What are the 7 basic haircuts? | The 7 basic haircuts are: 1) Bob 2) Layered 3) Pixie 4) Shag 5) Long 6) Lob 7) Buzz cut. |
| Does shoulder-length hair make you look younger or older? | Shoulder-length hair generally makes you look younger. The soft layers and shape help to frame the face, giving a youthful appearance. |
| What to ask for a medium-length haircut? | For a medium-length haircut, ask for a layered cut, a lob, or a shoulder-length bob, depending on the desired look. A good stylist will tailor the cut to your face shape. |
| What is the butterfly cut? | The butterfly cut is a layered haircut that combines short, face-framing layers on the top and longer, more voluminous layers at the bottom, creating a butterfly-like shape. |
| Are shoulder length hair attractive? | Yes, shoulder-length hair is often considered attractive because it’s versatile and can be styled in a variety of ways, enhancing facial features. |
| What is a taper vs fade? | A taper refers to a gradual decrease in length, with the hair being shorter at the sides and longer on top. A fade involves the hair gradually shortening down to the skin, creating a cleaner, sharper look. |
| What is the wolfcut? | The wolfcut is a trendy, edgy hairstyle that combines the layers of a shag cut with the volume of a mullet. It’s characterized by its messy, textured layers and choppy ends. |
| Which haircut gives volume to thin hair? | Haircuts that give volume to thin hair include layered cuts, bob cuts, and textured styles. Adding layers or a blunt cut can make fine hair appear fuller and thicker. |
Conclusion
And there you have it! We’ve journeyed through some amazing shoulder-length haircuts and everything you need to know about them. From the chic blunt bob to the fun, textured lob, we’ve covered a range of styles that can make your hair look fabulous in no time.
Whether you’re looking for volume, texture, or a sleek, polished look, there’s a perfect shoulder-length style waiting for you.
So, which cut are you excited to try? We’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences with shoulder-length haircuts! Did you find a style that suits your personality?
Maybe you’ve already tried one of these cuts and want to share how it turned out—don’t be shy! Drop your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s chat!