Shoulder-length haircuts are a versatile choice that works well with many face shapes, but they are especially flattering for oval faces. Oval faces are characterized by balanced proportions, where the length of the face is about one and a half times the width, and the forehead and jawline are approximately the same width. This shape allows for a wide variety of hairstyles that can enhance natural features and add personal style.
In this article, we’ll explore 16 of the best shoulder-length haircuts specifically tailored for oval faces. Each haircut will be described in detail, highlighting its unique features and how it complements an oval face shape.
16 Best Shoulder Length Haircuts for Oval Faces
1. Classic Blunt Cut
The classic blunt cut is a timeless option for shoulder-length hair. This style features straight, even ends without any layers. For an oval face, the blunt cut enhances the symmetry and provides a sleek, polished look.
Why It Works:
Emphasizes the balanced proportions of the face.
Adds a modern, sophisticated touch.
Easy to maintain and style.
Styling Tips:
Use a flat iron to keep the ends straight and smooth.
Apply a light styling serum for shine and control.
2. Soft Waves
Soft waves add a touch of romanticism to shoulder-length hair. This haircut involves creating gentle waves throughout the hair to add volume and movement.
Why It Works:
Adds texture and body without overwhelming the face.
Creates a casual, relaxed look that complements the natural curves of an oval face.
Styling Tips:
Use a curling wand or large-barrel curling iron.
Apply a texturizing spray for a beachy, tousled finish.
3. Layered Lob (Long Bob)
The layered lob, or long bob, is a shoulder-length cut that includes layers for added dimension and movement. This style works particularly well for an oval face by enhancing natural hair texture.
Why It Works:
Layers frame the face and add volume.
The length is flattering and versatile.
Styling Tips:
Use a round brush while blow-drying to create volume.
Apply a volumizing mousse for extra lift.
4. Curtain Bangs
Curtain bangs are a stylish choice for shoulder-length hair, with bangs parted in the middle and falling to either side. This style complements the oval face shape by framing the face softly.
Why It Works:
Softens the forehead area and adds a youthful appearance.
Bangs can be adjusted to suit different lengths and densities.
Styling Tips:
Use a round brush to curl the bangs slightly for a natural look.
Regularly trim bangs to keep them looking fresh.
5. A-Line Cut
The A-line cut features longer layers in the front and shorter layers in the back, creating a diagonal line. This haircut is dynamic and works well for oval faces by adding a modern edge.
Why It Works:
Adds a geometric element that enhances the natural shape of an oval face.
Provides a trendy, sophisticated look.
Styling Tips:
Use a straightener to emphasize the angled lines.
Apply a smoothing serum for a sleek finish.
6. Textured Bob
The textured bob is a playful, dynamic style that involves adding texture to shoulder-length hair. This cut often includes choppy ends and layers for a more relaxed look.
Why It Works:
Adds movement and volume to the hair.
Creates a casual, effortless appearance that suits the balanced proportions of an oval face.
Styling Tips:
Use a texturizing spray or sea salt spray.
7. Scrunch hair with your fingers for a tousled look.
Side-swept layers involve cutting layers at an angle to create a sweeping effect. This haircut is ideal for oval faces as it adds dimension and movement.
Why It Works:
Adds visual interest and frames the face.
Highlights the natural balance of an oval face.
Styling Tips:
Blow-dry hair with a side part to emphasize the sweep.
Use a light styling cream to keep layers in place.
8. Classic Bob with Face-Framing Layers
A classic bob with face-framing layers is a refined option that combines the sleekness of a bob with soft layers that highlight the face.
Why It Works:
Enhances facial features by focusing attention on the face.
The layers add movement and softness.
Styling Tips:
Use a curling iron to add gentle waves to the layers.
Apply a light mousse for volume.
9. Shaggy Cut
The shaggy cut involves various layers and textured ends, creating a fun and dynamic appearance. For an oval face, this style adds playful movement and can soften strong features.
Why It Works:
Adds volume and texture to shoulder-length hair.
The layered, uneven edges create a relaxed, edgy look.
Styling Tips:
Use a texturizing spray to enhance the shaggy texture.
Avoid over-straightening to keep the cut’s natural flow.
10. Sleek Straight Cut
The sleek straight cut is a no-fuss style that features perfectly straight, shoulder-length hair. This minimalist approach highlights the natural beauty of an oval face.
Why It Works:
Emphasizes the smooth lines of the face.
Provides a polished and elegant appearance.
Styling Tips:
Use a flat iron to achieve a straight, sleek finish.
Apply a heat protectant and serum for shine.
11. Choppy Lob
The choppy lob combines the classic lob with choppy layers for added texture. This cut provides a modern, stylish look that complements an oval face.
Why It Works:
Choppy layers add movement and dimension.
The length is versatile and flattering.
Styling Tips:
Use a texturizing spray or mousse to define choppy layers.
Blow-dry with a round brush for added volume.
SEE ALSO: 18 Best Haircuts for Oval Chubby Faces
12. Voluminous Waves
Voluminous waves are a glamorous choice for shoulder-length hair, featuring large, bouncy waves that add body and movement.
Why It Works:
Adds fullness and volume to the hair.
Complements the balanced proportions of an oval face.
Styling Tips:
Use a large-barrel curling iron or hot rollers.
Apply a volumizing mousse or spray for extra lift.
13. Shoulder-Length Pixie
The shoulder-length pixie is a bold option that combines the shortness of a pixie cut with the length of a bob. This cut provides a chic, sophisticated look for oval faces.
Why It Works:
Offers a unique, stylish alternative to traditional shoulder-length cuts.
Highlights facial features with its clean lines.
Styling Tips:
Use a styling wax or pomade to define layers.
Regularly trim to maintain the shape.
14. Soft Curls
Soft curls are a gentle, elegant option for shoulder-length hair. This style adds gentle curls that frame the face softly and enhance the natural shape.
Why It Works:
Adds a feminine touch and softens facial features.
Creates a romantic, stylish look.
Styling Tips:
Use a curling wand with a larger barrel for soft curls.
Apply a curl-enhancing cream for better hold.
15. High-Low Cut
The high-low cut features varying lengths throughout the hair, creating a dynamic, textured look. This style suits an oval face by adding movement and interest.
Why It Works:
Adds texture and depth to shoulder-length hair.
Creates a fashionable, modern appearance.
Styling Tips:
Use a texturizing spray to define the high-low layers.
Blow-dry with a diffuser for added volume.
16. Feathered Cut
The feathered cut involves long layers with feather-like ends that provide a light, airy feel. This style is great for an oval face as it adds softness and movement.
Why It Works:
Softens the hair and frames the face with gentle layers.
Provides a light, breezy look that enhances natural features.
Styling Tips:
Use a blow dryer with a diffuser to add volume.
Apply a light styling cream to keep layers soft and manageable.
Conclusion
Each of these shoulder-length haircuts offers something unique for oval faces, allowing for versatility and personal expression. When choosing a haircut, consider your personal style, hair texture, and maintenance preferences to find the perfect look that enhances your natural beauty.