You do not need a crystal ball to pick a haircut that looks brilliant on you. What you actually need is a clear, simple method and a few styling rules you can rely on.
Grab your pen and paper. This guide will help you identify your face shape, understand why it matters, and choose hairstyles that highlight your best features, so you turn heads wherever you go.
Your Face Shape Matters, Just Not as Much as You Think
Knowing your face shape gives you a reliable starting point. It helps you choose lengths, partings, and layers that balance your features and bring out your bone structure.
But it should not be the only thing you rely on. Your hair texture, density, lifestyle, and personal style will influence which cuts actually look good and stay manageable.
It is good to remember that face shape is a useful guide, not a strict rulebook.
Find Your Face Shape With These Three Quick Steps
You can do this in five minutes at home.
Step 1
Pull your hair back and stand in front of a mirror with good lighting.
Step 2
Use a washable marker or lipstick to trace the outline of your hairline, cheekbones, and jaw on the mirror.
Step 3
Compare your outline to the guide below.
If you prefer exact measurements, use a soft tape to measure four areas:
- Forehead width (widest point)
- Cheekbones width (across the widest part)
- Jawline width (from jaw tip to jaw tip)
- Face length (hairline to chin)
Then match your proportions to the table below to find your face shape.
Face Shape Measurement Guide
| Face Shape | Key Proportions | What It Usually Looks Like |
|---|---|---|
| Oval | Face length is longer than cheekbones. Forehead is wider than jawline. Jaw is rounded. | Soft, balanced outline with gently curved jaw. |
| Round | Face length ≈ cheekbone width. Forehead and jawline are similar in width. Jaw is soft and rounded. | Fuller cheeks and minimal angles. |
| Square | The forehead, cheekbones, and jawline are roughly the same width. Jawline is more angled. | Strong jaw and broad forehead. |
| Heart | Forehead is the widest point. Cheekbones slightly narrower. Jawline tapers to a pointed chin. | Wider top, narrower bottom. |
| Diamond | Cheekbones are the widest point. Forehead and jawline are narrower and similar in width. | High, pronounced cheekbones with a slimmer forehead and chin. |
| Long / Oblong | Face length is the largest measurement. The forehead, cheekbones, and jawline are roughly the same width. | Long outline with minimal curves at the jaw. |
| Triangle | Forehead is the widest point. Face narrows towards the jaw and chin. | Broad forehead with a narrower jaw and pointed or slim chin. |
| Base-down Triangle | Jawline is the widest point. Forehead is narrower. | Strong, wide jaw with a slimmer upper face. |
Face Shape Measurement Guide
If your face is oval, you are already working with one of the easiest shapes to style. The proportions are naturally balanced, so you have got room to play.
Most hairstyles work well on an oval face shape, and the goal is simply to show off what you already have. Symmetry.
When you are choosing a hairstyle for your face shape, focus on cuts that keep things clean, modern, and flattering.
Hairstyles that tend to work well
- Long layers or soft waves to add movement without hiding your features
- A blunt bob at chin or collarbone for a sleek, polished look
- Pixie cuts if you prefer something bold and low-maintenance
Styling advice to keep your oval shape looking effortless
Keep your volume even. A heavy, thick fringe can shorten your face, so go for lighter, face-framing layers to bring attention to your cheekbones.
If You Have a Round Face, Aim for Length and Angles
A round face shape has similar width and length, which gives you natural softness.
If you are looking for balance, your best move is to create a little height and gentle angles. This gives the illusion of length without making your features look sharper than you want.
This is where the right hairstyle for your face shape can make an immediate difference.
Styles that tend to flatter round faces
- Long, layered cuts that fall below the chin
- Lobs with front pieces that sit slightly longer
- Off-centre or side parts to break up roundness
- Soft, gradual layers instead of heavy, blunt ends
Pro styling note
Try adding volume at the crown rather than the sides. Side volume widens the face, while height lifts it. If you prefer a short cut, make sure there is some shape or layering to add vertical lines.
If You Have a Square Face, Soften the Jawline with Texture
A square face shape comes with a beautifully defined jaw and strong features. Your cut should soften those angles without taking away their character.
Texture is your best friend here. It adds movement and takes the edge off any harsh lines.
Choosing the right hairstyle for your face shape can make the jawline appear more refined.
Flattering options for square faces
- Layered cuts starting from the chin or slightly below
- Side-swept or curtain bangs that soften the forehead
- Textured waves and curls to add movement
- Asymmetrical bobs for a fresh, modern twist
Styling advice
Keep the weight below the jawline. Anything too blunt right at the jaw emphasises the square shape. Ask your stylist for soft, face-framing layers that blend seamlessly into your length.
If You Have a Heart-Shaped Face, Balance the Narrow Chin
A heart-shaped face usually means a wider forehead and a slimmer, pointed chin. Your focus is simple. Bring the attention downwards.
You want the eye to follow your cheekbones and end at a soft jawline. This balances the top half beautifully.
So, what is the right hairstyle for your face shape?
What often looks great on heart-shaped faces
- Chin-length bobs and long, feathered layers
- Side parts and sweeping fringes to soften forehead width
- Light, textured ends that add movement around the chin
Styling tip
Add gentle volume around the jaw to give balance. Avoid tiny baby bangs or heavy straight fringes because they draw the eye up and highlight forehead width.
If You Have a Diamond Face, Add Softness to the Angles
Diamond face shapes have striking cheekbones, a narrow forehead and a narrow chin. It is a beautiful structure, but the angles can look sharp if the cut does not soften them.
You will want to add width at the forehead and chin while keeping cheekbones subtle.
This is one of the face shapes where hairstyle choices matter a lot, because the balance is delicate.
Ideal choices for diamond-shaped faces
- Chin-length bobs or shoulder-length layers that round out the outline
- Soft fringe styles that sit lightly on the forehead
- Cuts with fullness at the temples and jawline
Styling advice
Keep the crown close to the head. Too much height emphasises the cheekbones. Wider sides and a little softness near the chin help create a more harmonious shape.
If You Have a Long or Oblong Face, Create Width and Reduce Length
A long face shape looks elegant but can appear even longer with the wrong cut.
Your aim is to introduce width and horizontal lines. Anything that adds volume to the sides instantly creates balance.
Choosing a hairstyle for this face shape is about breaking up the vertical line.
Cuts that work particularly well
- Chin-length bobs, shoulder-length waves, and soft layers
- Full fringe or curtain bangs to visually shorten the forehead
- Layered cuts that expand the sides rather than adding extra length
Styling note
If you love long hair, keep it layered. A straight, long curtain of hair will only lengthen the face. Side volume helps you balance everything.
If You Have a Triangle Face, Shape Soften the Upper Half
A triangle face shape (forehead is the widest part and your jaw narrows toward the chin) means the upper half of your face carries more visual weight. The goal is to soften the forehead and bring gentle fullness to the lower half so your features feel balanced and natural.
Choosing a hairstyle for this face shape is about creating harmony between the forehead and jawline. Adding volume around the jaw and using soft textures can make the overall look more proportional.
Cuts that fit a triangular face shape
- Soft layers that fall around the jaw
- Side partings to reduce forehead width
- Curtain fringes or light, wispy bangs
- Medium-length cuts that add subtle volume at the lower half
- Waves or curls that visually widen the jawline
Styling Tip
Avoid very blunt fringes or extremely short crops that draw attention to the forehead. Gentle layering and soft textures keep the cut looking effortless, while waves or curls help balance the proportions naturally.
If You Have a Base-Down Triangle Face Shape, Bring Balance Upward
A base-down triangle face shape (sometimes also called the pear-shaped face) means your jawline is the widest part of your face while your forehead is narrower. This can make the lower half feel heavier, but with the right cut, you can create balance and bring attention upward.
The key is to soften the jaw and add volume around the crown and upper face.
Choosing a hairstyle for this face shape is about drawing the eye upward and creating harmony between your upper and lower features.
Styles that complement a base-down triangular face shape
- Layered styles that lift the crown and add vertical interest
- Side-swept bangs to make the forehead appear wider
- Chin-to-collarbone layers that soften a strong jawline
- Textured bobs with movement to avoid heaviness
- Medium to long lengths that lift the eye and balance proportions
Styling advice
Keep soft waves or gentle layering around the jaw to reduce visual width. Avoid cuts that end right at the widest point of the jaw unless they include face-framing layers. Balanced volume on top helps the forehead complement the jaw, giving your features a natural, harmonious look.
Haircut ideas for base-down triangle faces
Not sure which cut suits your features? Head Editor offers personalised haircuts right here in Bugis. Book your appointment or call us for any enquiries!
Texture and Density Matter as Much as Shape
Face shape is important, but your hair’s texture and density change how any cut behaves. If you are choosing a hairstyle for your face shape, always factor in how your hair grows, moves, and settles.
Fine Hair
Fine hair benefits from thoughtful structure. Layers create the illusion of density, while blunt ends make the hair look fuller. Lightweight volumising products help lift your roots without weighing you down.
Thick Hair
Thick hair needs smart shaping. Long layers and strategic texturing reduce bulk. Heavy blunt cuts can look striking if you prefer a structured style. Thinning should be done with care to avoid frizz.
Curly or Wavy Hair
Let your curls work for you. Shorter cuts can bounce higher than expected, and longer layers help control the shape. Diffusers, curl creams, and regular trims keep curls defined.
Straight Hair
Precision is key with straight hair. Blunt bobs, long layers, and soft ends look clean and sleek. A texturising spray adds grip if you want more movement.
Men’s Face Shapes and What to Ask Your Barber
The same face shape principles apply to men, but facial hair adds another dimension. Beards can lengthen, broaden or soften your features, so think of them as part of your overall shape.
When you are choosing a hairstyle for your face shape, talk to your barber about:
- Where to place your parting
- How much tapering you need
- The best length for the crop
- Whether a textured top might balance your features
- Sideburn length for jawline proportion
A quick chat goes a long way, especially if you want a clean, flattering outline.
What to Say to Your Stylist So You Get Your Hairstyle Right
A good haircut is a team effort, and you do not need to know technical terms to get there. A little clarity helps your stylist understand what you want and what works for your features.
- Tell us your face shape (or let us measure it for you)
- Share your hair texture and how much time you are willing to style daily
- Show us one photo of a cut you love, and one you want to avoid
- Ask how often the cut needs trimming
- Request a quick styling demo before you leave
The clearer you are, the easier it is for your stylist to shape a look that truly complements you.
Simple Styling Moves That Transform a Cut
Sometimes, subtle changes are all you need to shift your proportions, refresh your outline, or bring a new mood to your everyday style.
- Switch to a side part to subtly reshape your outline
- Lift the crown with a round brush to add height
- Try curtain bangs to soften forehead width
- Add texture spray to prevent limpness and create separation
These are tiny moves, but the difference is noticeable.
When Lifestyle Matters More Than the “Perfect” Face Shape
Face shape guides are helpful. But your lifestyle should always lead. If you are always on the go, pick a cut that is low-maintenance.
If you swim often or train daily, shorter styles save time and stress. A flattering haircut only works if it fits your life, not just your proportions.
Final Checklist Before You Book Your Appointment
By now, you should feel more confident choosing a hairstyle for your face shape. Here is a quick recap of what you know:
- You have identified your face shape
- You know which haircut styles generally suit each shape
- You understand how texture and density change those choices
- You know how to speak to your stylist clearly
- You have got simple styling tricks to maintain your look at home
Let Our Head Editors Help with Your Hairstyle
If you would like a stylist’s eye on your features, we are here to help.
Book an appointment at Head Editor in Bugis and we will recommend a haircut that suits your face shape, your hair texture, and your daily routine. You will leave with a look that feels flattering, practical, and easy to maintain.
