From Subtle To Statement: 17 Inspiring Shag Hairstyles To Try

Shag hairstyles are making a major comeback in the hair world. This layered, textured cut brings movement and personality to any hair type. Whether you’re looking for a slight refresh or a bold transformation, there’s a shag style that’s perfect for your hair goals and face shape.

1. Classic Mid-Length Shag

The timeless mid-length shag features layers that frame the face beautifully. Medium-length cuts offer versatility while maintaining that signature tousled texture.

You’ll love how this cut brings volume to fine hair and tames thickness in heavier locks.

2. Curtain Bangs Shag

Parted down the middle, curtain bangs soften any shag cut with their face-framing magic. The gentle sweep across the forehead creates instant style.

Pair with layered lengths for that perfect balance of structure and casual coolness.

3. Curly Shag

Curls and shags were made for each other! Strategically placed layers enhance natural curl patterns and remove bulk. The result? Bouncy, defined curls that frame your face gorgeously.

This style works with all curl types from loose waves to tight coils.

4. 70s-Inspired Shag

Channel your inner rock star with this retro-cool cut. Heavy bangs, lots of layers, and maximum volume create that iconic 70s vibe. Add some feathering around the face for the ultimate throwback style.

This bold look pairs perfectly with vintage-inspired outfits.

5. Bob Shag

Merging the classic bob with shaggy layers creates a fresh, modern look. The chin-length cut maintains sophistication while choppy layers add playful movement.

Style with texturizing spray for that perfect undone finish that’s both polished and effortless.

6. Long Layered Shag

Keep your length while enjoying the benefits of a shag cut. Long layers starting at the collarbone create movement without sacrificing inches.

This style works beautifully on thick hair, reducing bulk while maintaining that coveted long-hair look.

7. Micro Bangs Shag

Make a bold statement with ultra-short bangs paired with a textured shag. The contrast between the cropped fringe and layered lengths creates an artistic, fashion-forward look.

This edgy style works especially well with straight or slightly wavy hair textures.

8. Wolf Cut

Half mullet, half shag, the wolf cut is social media’s favorite edgy hairstyle. Featuring short, choppy layers on top that gradually transition to longer lengths.

The dramatic contrast between crown volume and lengthy ends creates that signature wild, untamed look.

9. Shaggy Lob

The lob (long bob) gets an update with shaggy layers throughout. Hitting just at the shoulders, this versatile cut works for all face shapes and hair textures.

Ask your stylist for invisible layers that create movement without looking obviously chopped.

10. Wispy Shag

Soft, feathery layers create a lightweight shag that’s perfect for fine hair. The wispy ends add movement without removing too much bulk.

This gentle approach to the shag trend works wonderfully for those wanting texture without dramatic choppiness.

11. Shag with Side-Swept Bangs

Side-swept bangs add asymmetrical interest to a classic shag cut. The diagonal line across the forehead softens angular face shapes and creates a flirty, feminine vibe.

Style with a round brush for a polished look or let air dry for effortless texture.

12. Octopus Cut

Named for its shape, the octopus cut features voluminous, rounded layers on top that taper to thinner, longer pieces. This modern take on the shag creates a distinctive silhouette.

The dramatic contrast between top and bottom layers gives this cut its unique, statement-making appeal.

13. Shaggy Mullet

The modern mullet embraces shaggy texture for a cooler, less severe version of the classic. Short, textured layers on top flow into longer back sections.

This gender-neutral style works with various hair types and can be as subtle or dramatic as you prefer.

14. Curly Bangs Shag

Embrace your natural texture with curly bangs that perfectly complement a shaggy cut. The fringe adds face-framing dimension to curly hair types.

Ask your stylist to cut bangs dry and slightly longer than desired to account for shrinkage when styling.

15. Platinum Shag

A bright platinum color makes every layer of a shag cut pop. The cool tone highlights the texture and movement of the cut for maximum impact.

This bold color choice works especially well with shorter to medium-length shags where the dimension really stands out.

16. Shag with Money Piece

Add face-brightening dimension with contrasting front strands known as a ‘money piece.’ These highlighted sections frame the face and accentuate the layers of your shag.

The color contrast draws attention to your facial features while making the shaggy layers more visible.

17. Wavy Collarbone Shag

The perfect mid-length cut hits right at the collarbone with wavy texture throughout. This versatile length works for all face shapes and hair types.

Style with a curling wand for defined waves or scrunch with product for a more natural, beachy texture.