Oblong face shape
Best Haircuts for an Oblong Face
For an oblong face, choose cuts that add width and reduce length. A blunt bob, a full or curtain fringe, and waves at the sides all shorten the face, while very long, straight styles make it look longer.
Why an oblong face works this way
An oblong or long face is noticeably longer than it is wide, with a straight cheek line and often a longer forehead or chin. The goal is the opposite of a round face: add width and break up the length.
Flattering cuts add horizontal volume and cut the vertical line, so the face reads shorter and more balanced.
The most flattering cuts
- Blunt bob
- A bob that ends around the chin adds width and stops the eye traveling down a long face.
- Full or curtain fringe
- A fringe shortens a long forehead and cuts the vertical length of an oblong face.
- Waves and curls at the sides
- Volume at the sides adds width, which balances the length.
- Shoulder-length layers with body
- Layers with side volume break up the length without adding to it.
- Side part with soft waves
- A side part plus wave adds width and movement across the face.
Cuts to approach with care
- Very long, straight, one-length hair. Long straight hair emphasizes the vertical line and makes an oblong face look even longer.
- Tall volume at the crown. Height on top adds length to a face that is already long.
Styling notes
- Add width at the sides with waves or curls rather than height on top.
- A fringe is one of the most effective ways to shorten a long face.
- Keep the crown relatively flat and let the volume sit lower.
Common questions
What haircut makes a long face look shorter?
A blunt bob, a full or curtain fringe, and waves at the sides all add width and cut the length, which makes an oblong face look shorter and more balanced.
Should an oblong face have bangs?
Yes. A fringe is one of the best choices for an oblong face because it shortens a long forehead and breaks up the vertical line.
Can an oblong face have long hair?
It can, but add layers, waves, or a fringe so the length does not make the face look longer. Very long, straight, one-length hair is the main thing to avoid.
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