How to Find the Right Haircut for Your Face Shape

TL;DR: Your face shape tells you where a cut should add width, length, or softness. Oval faces suit almost anything. Round faces want height and length. Square faces love soft layers. Heart shapes balance a wide forehead with fullness lower down. Bring a photo and book a consultation so we can plan it together.

By Kristina Raia, Level 6 floor manager at Styling Company

I've spent years watching the same haircut land completely differently on two people. The cut wasn't wrong. It just wasn't reading their face. Once you understand your own shape, choosing a style gets a lot simpler, and a lot less stressful.

How do I figure out my face shape?

Pull your hair back, look straight into a mirror, and study the outline of your face. You're looking at four things: the width of your forehead, your cheekbones, your jaw, and how long your face is from hairline to chin. Most people land in one of five groups. Oval faces are a bit longer than they are wide with a soft jaw. Round faces are close to equal in width and length with full cheeks. Square faces have a strong, straight jawline. Heart faces are wider up top and narrow toward the chin. Long faces read tall and narrow. If you can't tell, snap a straight-on photo without a smile. It's easier to see on a still image than in the mirror.

Which haircut works for a round face?

Cuts that add height on top and length through the sides work best for a round face. You want to create the illusion of length, so I lean toward long layers, side-swept pieces, and styles that fall past the jaw. A blunt bob that hits right at the widest part of the cheek can make a round face look rounder, so we soften it or drop the length a little lower. A little lift at the crown goes a long way too. When you come in, we can talk through your daily routine so the shape holds up on the mornings you're rushing.

What about square and heart-shaped faces?

Square faces look great with soft, face-framing layers that ease the strong jaw. A sharp, blunt line can compete with an already strong jawline, so I like movement and a bit of texture around the chin and cheeks. Heart-shaped faces are wider at the forehead and narrow at the chin, so we add fullness lower down. A chin-length bob or layers that build weight near the jaw balances everything out. Curtain bangs are a favorite of mine for heart shapes because they break up a wider forehead without a heavy commitment.

Does my hair texture matter as much as my face shape?

Yes, texture matters just as much, and sometimes more. A cut that looks soft and airy on straight hair can read shorter and rounder on curls, because curls shrink as they dry. Fine hair holds a blunt line beautifully but can look thin in heavy layers. Thick hair needs internal weight removed so it doesn't puff out. This is why I always ask how your hair behaves on a normal day, not just what you want it to do. If you're between cuts and want to stretch your look, our guide on how to make your blowout last covers the styling side of it.

What should I bring to my haircut appointment?

Bring one or two photos of cuts you love and, if you can, one of a cut that didn't work. The "didn't work" photo is gold for me because it tells me what to avoid. Be honest about how much time you actually spend on your hair each morning. A cut that needs 20 minutes of styling isn't the right call if you have five. You can see our full haircuts and styling options and browse the rest of our services before you come in. Guys, this applies to you too, and we get into detail on the men's haircuts and grooming side over here.

Good to Know

How long is a haircut appointment at Styling Company?

Plan for about 45 minutes to an hour for a cut and style, a little longer if you're changing your shape significantly. Your first visit includes a consultation, so give yourself a few extra minutes on the front end.

How much does a haircut cost?

A dry haircut is $44, a long haircut and blowout is $56, a medium cut is $66, and a short cut is $86. A barber cut is $45. Pricing reflects the time and detail each length takes.

Do I need a consultation before my cut?

Every first visit starts with a consultation built right in, so we're on the same page before any scissors come out. If you're thinking about a big change, that conversation is where we make sure the cut fits your face and your routine.

Can you fix a cut I got somewhere else?

Often, yes. Bring in photos of what you asked for and what you got, and we'll talk through what's realistic based on your current length. Some fixes happen in one visit, others need a little grow-out time.

What products do you use and sell?

We work with Kevin Murphy across the salon. If a specific product is keeping your cut looking sharp at home, we'll point you to it and show you how to use it.

Will short hair make my face look rounder?

Not if the shape is right. Short cuts can actually lengthen a round face when we add height and keep the sides close. The trick is in the layering and where the weight sits, which is exactly what we plan in your consultation.

How often should I get a haircut?

Every six to eight weeks keeps most shapes looking intentional. Shorter, precision cuts hold their shape for less time, so those clients often come in closer to every four to five weeks.

Can I book with a specific stylist?

Yes. We have stylists across Levels 1 through 6, and you're welcome to request whoever you'd like to work with when you book.

The right haircut should feel like it belongs to you the second you leave the chair. If you're ready to figure out yours, book your appointment and let's plan it together. New guests get a $20 gift card toward that first visit.