Shag hair has long been seen as a mark of feminine rebellion – think Farrah Fawcett with her signature bob, Diana Ross with her full Afro and Stevie Nicks sporting her shaggy curtain bangs as examples.
This trend even earned its share of admiration from rock icons like Mick Jagger and Joan Jett – earning its place among modern rock iconography as an effortless style that still looks stylish today.
1. Layered Shag
The classic shag is an easy and low-maintenance cut that adds volume to thin locks while creating a fuller shape around the crown. This version of the classic shag also features face-framing layers which can be styled using waves or straighteners for enhanced features or to highlight unique textures in your hair.
Stevie Nicks is an iconic example of shaggy hairstyles; her long, layered cut with curtain bangs remains popular today. From full rock ‘n’ roll to soft and feminine looks, the layered shag offers versatile solutions for all lifestyles.
For a contemporary take on layered shags, opt for a choppy style featuring lots of layers and side-swept fringe. Gabrielle Union embodies this look with her short side-swept bangs giving it a feminine, seductive vibe. Additionally, this cut makes an excellent way to incorporate color without fully bleaching their locks; just ask your stylist about adding peek-a-boo blond highlights or lowlights as highlights to show off layers while adding visual interest and contrast in this style.
2. Choppy Shag
Trying on the shag haircut but don’t want long, wavy layers like Lady Gaga? A medium-length choppy cut could be just what’s needed! Featuring slightly bent and ear-tucked side-swept bangs that frame your face without hiding away your eyes, as well as light balayage highlights to blend in seamlessly with its rich brown base color, it is the perfect way to pull off this timeless style.
Choppy shags can also work well for women with fine hair, adding texture and volume. Ask your stylist to feather out the ends for a more structured look, then use lightweight products like Natural Barber Co’s Zeus Pomade or Hades Matte Paste all-natural hair wax to achieve just the right balance between hold and flexibility for your shag.
This shoulder-length layered shag haircut is ideal for older ladies who prefer low maintenance for their locks. The texturized and voluminous cut adds movement and balance to your appearance while its wispy bangs draw attention away from other facial features – and highlight your beauty.
3. Straight Shag
The shag haircut is an iconic style characterized by choppy layers, volume and texture. It can be enhanced with bangs to frame the face and create an exciting silhouette, or tailored specifically to meet individual styling preferences such as waves, curls or straight locks. Additionally, its flattering nature complements various face shapes while it can easily be reshaped throughout the day with products like Zeus Pomade or Hades Matte Paste for effortless reshaping throughout your day.
This ash-blonde layered shag haircut harkens back to the 70s with its choppy crown section and longer slim layers reaching to the shoulders. Its side-parted style features thick bangs for classy framing of the face; ideal for those who do not wish to do a center part or don’t possess enough length for full fringe. Consult with your stylist about other variations of the shag to accentuate your features.
4. Curly Shag
No matter the style or length, curly shags work for any type of hair texture – from Farrah Fawcett’s dreamy shag with bangs to modern versions like Billie Elish’s cut – as long as lightweight formulas like Christophe Robin Texturizing Spray or nourishing hair wax are used when styling this style.
Make the messy shoulder-length shag your go-to style for easy carefree style that doesn’t compromise on look or functionality. Layered, choppy cuts and full fringe create an undone, rocker feel, perfect for wash-and-go days and easy maintenance. Simply keep this style intact with lightweight hairspray and regular trims to maintain.
