A square face is characterized by a broad forehead, wide cheekbones, and a prominent, angular jawline. While there are numerous haircut options that can flatter and enhance the features of a square face, there are also certain styles that should be avoided as they can emphasize the squareness and create an unbalanced look. Understanding these less favorable haircut choices can help individuals with square faces make more informed decisions when it comes to their hairstyles.
Blunt Bobs with No Layers
Explanation:
A blunt bob that falls straight across at the chin or just below without any layers can accentuate the angularity of the jawline. The straight line of the bob mirrors the straight lines of the square face, making it appear even more boxy. For example, a one-length bob that hugs the face closely can draw attention directly to the wide cheekbones and square jaw, rather than softening or balancing these features. This type of haircut lacks the movement and softness needed to counteract the harsh angles of a square face.
Alternative: Opt for a bob with soft, graduated layers. The layers can start around the cheekbones and gradually taper down, creating a more rounded and flowing look. This helps to break up the straight lines and gives the illusion of a more oval face shape.
Short, Straight, and Heavy Bangs
Explanation:
Bangs that are cut short, straight, and thick can make the forehead seem wider and the face appear shorter. When combined with a square face shape, this can create a top-heavy look and further emphasize the squareness. For instance, a heavy, straight-across bang that sits right at the eyebrow line can add bulk to the upper part of the face, making the cheekbones and jawline seem even more prominent in contrast.
Alternative: Consider side-swept bangs that are long and wispy. They can be styled to fall diagonally across the forehead, creating a softening effect and elongating the face. This type of bang helps to draw the eye in a more flattering direction and reduces the emphasis on the square shape of the face.
Very Short Pixie Cuts with No Textured Layers
Explanation:
A super short pixie cut without any textured layers can make the face look more angular and severe. The lack of layers means there is no movement or softening around the face, and the short length can highlight the broadness of the cheekbones and the squareness of the jaw. For example, a flat, one-length pixie cut can make the face appear more masculine and less feminine, as it does not add any softening elements to counteract the strong facial structure.
Alternative: If you want a pixie cut, go for a style with short, choppy layers and some texturizing. This can add volume and movement, especially around the crown and temples, to create a more flattering and softer look. You can also consider adding side-swept bangs or longer pieces in the front to frame the face and reduce the appearance of squareness.
Center-Parted, Long, and Straight Hair
Explanation:
Long, straight hair with a center part can divide the face evenly and draw attention to the width of the cheekbones and the square shape. The straight lines of the hair and the symmetrical part enhance the angularity rather than disguising it. For instance, when the hair is worn straight down the back and parted in the middle, it creates a mirror effect that emphasizes the square outline of the face.
Alternative: Try a side part instead. This helps to create an asymmetrical look, which can break up the symmetry of the square face and make it appear more elongated. You can also add some waves or curls to the hair to introduce movement and softness. Long hair with loose waves that start around the cheekbones and flow down can be very flattering as it softens the angles and gives a more feminine and graceful appearance.
Boxy, Short Layers All Over
Explanation:
Short, boxy layers that are cut evenly all over the head can give the impression of a more angular and rigid shape. This style resembles the shape of a square itself and does nothing to soften the facial features. For example, if the layers are cut in a way that they all end at a similar length around the head, it can make the face look even more square and lack dimension.
Alternative: Go for longer, graduated layers that start from around the chin or longer and taper down. These layers can be styled in a way that frames the face and adds a sense of flow and softness. You can also use a round brush when blow-drying to create volume at the crown and a more rounded look overall.
Severe, Straight Updos
Explanation:
Updos that are pulled back tightly and have a very straight and severe appearance can accentuate the square shape of the face. When the hair is slicked back and styled in a rigid bun or a tight ponytail without any softening elements, it makes the forehead, cheekbones, and jawline more prominent. For example, a high, tight bun with no loose strands or volume can make the face look harsh and angular.
Alternative: Opt for a more relaxed and voluminous updo. You can create a messy bun or a low ponytail with some loose tendrils around the face. This adds softness and a more feminine touch. Another option is to add some braids or twists to the updo to introduce texture and interest, which helps to take the focus away from the square shape of the face.
Shaved Sides with Long Top
Explanation:
A haircut with shaved sides and a long top can make the face look wider and more square. The contrast between the short, shaved sides and the long top can draw attention to the width of the face, especially the cheekbones and jawline. For instance, if the shaved sides are very short and the top is left long and straight, it creates a horizontal line that emphasizes the square shape rather than elongating or softening it.
Alternative: If you like the idea of an edgier haircut, consider a long, textured bob with undercutting. The undercut can be hidden beneath the layers of the bob, adding a bit of an edgy touch without making the face look wider. The textured bob with soft layers can still frame the face and reduce the appearance of squareness.
Very Long, One-Length Hair without Face-Framing Layers
Explanation:
Extremely long, one-length hair that has no face-framing layers can make the face look heavy and square. The lack of layers means the hair hangs straight down and does not add any softening or flattering elements around the face. For example, if the hair is very long and straight, it can make the cheekbones and jawline seem more prominent as there is no break in the lines.
Alternative: Incorporate face-framing layers into the long hair. These layers can start from around the cheekbones and gradually blend into the rest of the length. This helps to frame the face, add movement, and make the face appear more oval. You can also add some waves or curls to the layers for a more feminine and soft look.
Tight, Small Curls All Over
Explanation:
A head full of tight, small curls can make the face look busier and emphasize the square shape. The curls can add volume in a way that makes the face seem wider and more angular. For example, if the curls are all the same size and tightly coiled from root to tip, they can create a mass of texture that overwhelms the face and highlights the squareness rather than softening it.
Alternative: Go for larger, looser curls or waves. These can be styled to start from around the cheekbones and flow down, creating a more relaxed and softening effect. The larger curls add movement and elegance, and they help to elongate the face rather than making it look wider.
Angular, Geometric Bob Cuts
Explanation:
Bobs that have angular, geometric shapes, such as a sharp A-line or a bob with a distinct, straight angle at the back, can enhance the square features of the face. These geometric cuts mimic the angles of the square face and do not provide any softening or balancing. For example, a bob with a harsh A-line that ends sharply at the chin can make the jawline seem even more prominent and angular.
Alternative: Choose a bob with a more rounded or softened A-line. The curve at the bottom of the bob can help to reduce the emphasis on the square jaw and create a more flattering and feminine look. You can also add some layers to the bob to give it more movement and texture.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when it comes to choosing a haircut for a square face, it is important to avoid styles that emphasize the angularity and squareness. By opting for haircuts with softening elements such as layers, waves, side parts, and face-framing features, individuals with square faces can enhance their natural beauty and create a more balanced and flattering look. It is always advisable to consult with a professional hairstylist who can assess your face shape and hair texture and recommend the most suitable haircut options.
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