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The Shag Cut: The Effortlessly Cool Hair Trend Taking Over This Season

Ready for a stunning hair transformation? Enter the shag haircut—even if the name is unfamiliar, chances are you've spotted it on Instagram influencers, in fashion magazines, or on celebrities.

This iconic 1970s style has been refreshed with modern flair, blending retro vibes with contemporary edge for effortless hairstyles.

What Is a Shag Haircut?

The shag cut, often called the shaggy cut, delivers a relaxed, layered look with tapered levels that boost volume at the crown. Resembling a hybrid mullet or degraded cut, it frames and flatters the face. Adaptable to square bobs, mid-lengths, or short styles, the shaggy cut reigns trendy. Casual, retro, feminine, and unstructured, it's the ultimate styled-disheveled vibe—far from traditional waves—with rock 'n' roll attitude and laid-back charm. Celebrities like Lou Doillon and Charlotte Gainsbourg embody its timeless appeal.

Is the Shag Cut Right for You?

While ultra-trendy, the shag isn't one-size-fits-all. On fine hair, heavy tapering can reduce volume, so it's ideal for thick hair. Fine strands can still rock it with lighter degradation for balance.

For What Hair Types?

  • Naturally curly or wavy hair makes it a breeze—straight hair works too, but daily styling creates that signature texture.
  • On thick hair, it adds curl volume while thinning mass at the ends.
  • Best for thick, curly locks with flexibility for movement.
  • For mature hair, opt for a smooth shag to avoid overdone dishevelment, embracing sleek modernity.

The Shag Cut by Face Shape

This unstructured frame suits round faces beautifully, adding crown volume for a slimming effect. Oval faces shine with side-framing layers. Stick close to your natural color, enhanced by subtle balayage or highlights for dimension.

How to Get the Shag Cut

@cosmopolitan

Head to a skilled stylist—this cut demands precise layering techniques for its multi-level taper. Post-cut, home styling is simple.

Shag Cut Maintenance

Dry upside down for root volume. Use volumizing mousse to define curls. For fine hair, lightly enhance waves while keeping it natural—skip tight curls. Refresh every 3-4 months to reshape lengths, face-framing, and bangs like eyebrow-grazing, curtain fringes, or tapered styles.

3 Celebrity Shag Cuts We Adore

Alexa Chung's Mid-Length Shag

With her signature effortless chic, Alexa nails the shag. A curtain fringe modernizes it, while subtle highlights flatter her face.

Jessica Alba's Shag Haircut

The Latina star's short, wavy shag evokes Spanish flair—light, supple layers highlight her eyes via textured bangs.

Scarlett Johansson's Shaggy Bob

Short hair fans: Try the shaggy bob, as sported by Scarlett Johansson.