We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Hair

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What is a Shag Haircut?

By Sonal Panse
Updated: May 21, 2024
Views: 19,167
Share

A shag haircut is a layered hair style that can be worn short, medium or long. The layers are cut in an even progression, with the short layers at the top and longer layers at the bottom. The overall effect is a tousled, shaggy crown of hair with uneven feathered, fringed or wispy ends, but, from the 70's shag to more modern emo styles, this haircut comes in a good many variations. As a style, it is very easy to maintain at home, which, along with its trendy look, accounts for its popularity.

It is a good idea to consult an experienced hair stylist before deciding on the type of shag haircut. Based on the face shape and hair type of a person, the stylist can determine whether a short haircut, medium hairstyle or a long shag will be suitable. A short hair style with a messy shag or a medium one with bangs, for instance, can create a thinning effect on people with round or plump faces. Someone with square or angular features, on the other hand, might go with the softening effects of a long shag haircut.

When going for a short hairstyle, keep in mind that the hair once cut will take time in growing back. It is also not possible to wear a ponytail or a braid with short hair. Therefore, a person who tends to get bored with one style quickly might be better off going for a medium or long hair style. With a long shag haircut, the layers are kept relatively long, with the shortest one ending at ear-lobe level, allowing for quite a lot of experimentation.

Hair type, of course, is another important consideration. Generally, the trademark layered form of a shag haircut works best with thick, wavy or curly hair, although expert cutting and styling may make a positive difference for fine hair. To achieve a sexy shag look, try going for different types and lengths of layers and bangs. Adding highlights will also help as they will draw the eye to the hair texture.

A stylist may cut a shag haircut with scissors or with a razor, depending on the effect required; scissors can give a more feathery appearance. The ends may be styled with a curling iron or a round brush. Blow-drying and conditioning the hair can help add volume, if needed.

Share
BeautyAnswered is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Discussion Comments
By anon148480 — On Feb 01, 2011

A shag also refers to a black hairstyle popular in the 70s/80s where you had a little afro just at the back of the head across the back hairline. The rest of the fro is cut short. Maybe that's technically a "curly shag haircut"?

Share
https://www.beautyanswered.com/what-is-a-shag-haircut.htm
Copy this link
BeautyAnswered, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

BeautyAnswered, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.