Aveda Theory Hair Salon

Ready for a haircut that fits both your vibe and your face? Here’s a guide on which face shapes suit short haircuts, plus styling tips to keep you looking effortlessly fresh.

Oval Face: The Best of All Worlds

Why it works: Oval faces have balanced proportions, making nearly any short cut flattering from blunt bobs to sleek pixies.

Style picks: Symmetrical bobs, cropped pixies, curtain bangs or textured lobs all look stunning.

Tip: Avoid heavy bangs that cover your forehead; wispy or side-swept bangs add gentle balance.

Round Face: Create Length and Definition

Goal: Elongate and slim. Short styles should add angles, not volume at cheeks.

Best picks: Lob-length bobs with side part or layers. Really short cuts can sometimes exaggerate the round look.

Alternative: A textured pixie with height at the crown can give dimension and lift.

Heart Face: Balance a Wider Forehead and a Narrow Chin

Goal: Draw attention downward, soften upper width.

Ideal styles: Textured bobs around chin length with side part or bangs. Wispy layers or a shaggy bob can soften the forehead and add fullness near the jawline.

Tip: Avoid super-flat or blunt cuts that exaggerate the forehead.

Square Face: Softening Angles with Texture

Goal: Soften a strong jawline and broad forehead.

Recommended cuts: Shaggy pixie with side bangs, layered bob with waves, or uneven textured cuts.

Bonus: Wispy bangs and soft layers help soften angular features.

Diamond Face: Highlight Those Cheekbones

Definition: Narrow forehead/chin with prominent cheekbones.

Best cuts: Soft, textured pixies, cropped bobs with volume at the temples, or shoulder-length lob with face-framing layers.

Avoid: Overly sleek, long cuts. Choose volume instead.

Long (Oblong) Face: Add Width, Shorten Length Visually

Goal: Shorten the perceived face length and add balance .

Top picks: Blunt chin-length bob or pixie with bangs. Curtain or blunt bangs cut down vertical length effectively. Also consider undercut pixies with volume on top and sides to reduce the chin’s prominence.

Easy Rule of Thumb

Wondering if short hair is ever a good idea for your face? Try the 2.25‑inch rule:

Place a pencil under your chin and a ruler by your earlobe—if the distance is under 2.25 inches (about 5.5 cm), short hair is likely to flatter you.

Styling Tips by Shape

• Want to find your own face shape? Pull hair back and analyze forehead, cheekbones, jaw, and face length in even lighting.
• Bring inspo photos to your stylist so they can tailor length, texture, and bangs to your face.
• Texture is your friend: sea-salt spray, texturizers or curling wands help soften lines and add movement.

Every face shape can look amazing with the right cut. Talk with your stylist, show your cut inspo, and walk in ready to own your best short hair yet.