When shopping for a new haircut, you've probably heard that it's wise to consider your hair type and hair texture. Also important? Taking your face shape into account. After all, a bob on an oval face will look different on a square face. And when it comes to the latter shape, Brian Zinno, education director at Antonio Prieto Salon, says that there are certain haircuts for square faces that are more flattering than others. To prove it to you, we've rounded up our favorite cuts and styles for square-shaped faces.
Whether you're a fan of a shorter length or love keeping your strands long, keep scrolling for the eight best haircuts for square faces as seen on your favorite celebs.
Face-Framing Layers
Flowing, long layers like Aldridge's will soften up a square face shape. If your hair is fine, Zinno says to customize this cut. How? "Adding layers to give a bit of volume at the crown, and long layers around the face that are shorter in the center and extend longer to the perimeter."
Long Bob
The lob is a universally flattering style. Keep the length a few inches below the chin, and an asymmetrical cut can streamline a broad jawline. "Any time the length or layers hit at the chin, it will only draw more attention to the width," comments Zinno.
Center Part
It's all about finding symmetry and balance when determining a style that pairs well with your square face. "A center part with long layers around the face particularly flatters this face shape," explains Zinno. "The center part evenly distributes and camouflages the hair over the upper corners of this square shape."
Light and Textured Bangs
Love bangs? If you decide to get fringe, Zinno recommends that you keep them light and textured, rather than full and blunt. "If a square-shaped face wants bangs, I would recommend a narrow section and never blunt or too heavy," explains Zinno. "I also like when the bangs are slightly on the longer side and the lines are shattered, giving it lightness and texture."
Long Layers
If your hair is thick like Taraji P. Henson's, Zinno says to stick with longer layers. However, ask your stylist to remove some weight from your strands so that your hair has lightness and movement.
Pixie With Wispy Bangs
A pixie with some lightness and texture is a great short-length option for square-shaped faces. Some length in the front and wispy bangs like Richie's add softness to the cut. "If there is a heavy, wide bang that is the same width as the jawline, it will only shrink the face in length and continue to exaggerate the width," adds Zinno.
Volumized Side Part
While a center part is ideal for square-shaped faces, switch up a long, layered cut like Portman's, by parting your hair off to the side and adding extra volume at the crown.
Olivia Wilde
Keep a bob an inch or two below your chin with a whole lot of texture like Wilde's. "It should never be thick and weighty at the perimeter," says Zinno.