From 70s Icon to Modern Staple: The Return of the Shag

The Shag haircut for men presents an effortlessly cool style that favors an unkempt layering approach. Typically shoulder-length or shorter, it incorporates multiple layers and a messy, tousled finish, lending an air of nonchalance. Textured and voluminous, this style suits those seeking a relaxed appearance without sacrificing style. It especially complements oval and rectangular face shapes and thrives on wavy or curly hair textures. This haircut revives 1970s rock star vibes with a contemporary twist, making it a fashionable choice among creative professionals. Distinct from a traditional layered cut, its aim is an intentionally rugged appearance rather than precision. Emphasizing movement and volume, it remains a favored choice among those seeking low-maintenance, yet impactful styling.

Best For

This style is best suited for individuals with wavy or curly hair and works well with oval or oblong face shapes.

What to Tell Your Barber

Request multiple feathered layers and emphasize an overall tousled finish. Maintain length near the nape without sharp definition.

How to Maintain It

To maintain the look, regular trims every six to eight weeks help keep the layers in shape while avoiding overgrowth.

Textured Shag with Fade

The Textured Shag with Fade marries the relaxed layers of a shag with the structured precision of a fade. This style is ideal for men who appreciate the juxtaposition of textured fullness and a sleek silhouette. The fade, usually starting around the temple, provides a clean contrast to the shaggy top, emphasizing the hair’s natural texture. This cut is notably versatile, allowing for personalization through the fade’s height and placement. Ideal for those with thick hair, it adds a touch of edge while maintaining the practicality of shorter sides. Perfect for modern men balancing creativity and professionalism, this cut creates visual interest without overwhelming the frame.

Best For

Thick hair types benefit most, with round and triangular face shapes providing a strong foundation for showcasing this look.

Products That Work Well

Use a matte pomade to define layers while preserving the contrasting textures between the fade and the shag top.

Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid blends that compromise the fade’s definition, as a clear contrast amplifies the unique visual impact of the style.

Curly Shag Haircut

The Curly Shag Haircut is a standout choice for men with natural curls or those embracing a more dynamic look. Layering elevates curls into soft, voluminous waves that enhance natural flow and bounce. This cut keeps curls defined without appearing overly structured, offering an ideal balance for those desiring natural style with minimal effort. The front remains slightly longer to frame the face or sweep back for a softer edge. Due to its controlled tousle, this style is adaptable for casual environments or upscale settings. Unlike straight shag cuts, the texture is the focal point here, drawing attention to the curly aesthetic.

Best For

Best for those with natural curls or waves, particularly suitable for square and heart-shaped faces.

How to Make It Your Own

Experiment with curl enhancement creams or diffusers to personalize the amount of curl definition and volume you desire.

How to Maintain It

Regular deep conditioning is recommended to keep curls hydrated and defined, ensuring the style stays vibrant.

Modern Shag with Undercut

The Modern Shag with Undercut redefines the classic shag by pairing it with a bold, contemporary undercut. Typically characterized by longer, layered hair on top that seamlessly transitions into a starkly contrasting undercut, this style complements those willing to push boundaries. This striking combination suits medium to thick hair textures, while offering a canvas for personal creativity. It’s particularly suited to those wanting a manageable yet statement-driven look. With a focus on individuality, the cut enables the top layers to exhibit free form, contrasting beautifully with precise, shaved sides. It’s ideal for fashion-forward individuals eager to merge vintage influence with modern boldness.

Best For

Thicker hair types are ideal, particularly on diamond or oval face shapes, enhancing the style’s character.

Products That Work Well

Opt for flexible hold gel to maintain shape on top and defining cream for a polished finish on longer sections.

Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid cutting the undercut too high. A balanced transition ensures that all focus remains on the overall silhouette.

Fringed Shag Haircut

The Fringed Shag Haircut offers a unique twist by incorporating a fringe that flows naturally with the overall shaggy aesthetic. The fringe acts as a focal point, softening the facial features while offering versatile styling options. This haircut showcases layered edges coupled with a ragged fringe, exuding a rock-and-roll vibe with laid-back elegance. This haircut appeals to those seeking a relaxed yet expressive look, ideal for men with longer foreheads or angular features. The fringed aspect adds another dimension, differentiating it from a traditional shag that would typically avoid such distinct front layers. Perfect for effortlessly transitioning from one setting to another.

Best For

Particularly effective on straight to wavy hair and complements longer face shapes like oblong and rectangular.

How to Make It Your Own

Vary fringe length or texture to create an asymmetric edge or streamlined look, fitting personal style dynamics.

What to Tell Your Barber

Specify the fringe length and positioning clearly to align with natural hairline and desired aesthetic.

Beachy Shag Haircut

The Beachy Shag Haircut embodies a sun-kissed, easygoing vibe. Imitating the natural wave and texture created by a day at the beach, this look gravitates towards casual sophistication. The focus remains on enhancing natural texture through layered cuts, emphasizing movement and volume—and achieving understated charm. It’s particularly alluring on wavy to straight hair, helping to mold a laid-back, yet polished style. Best for guys who appreciate uncomplicated styling yet want a head-turner look, this shag variation enhances the seasonal appeal of sun, sand, and surf. Living somewhere coastal inspires this easy style, making it practically resonate with relaxed seaside living.

Best For

Ideal for medium hair density with texture, complementing round and triangular face shapes most effectively.

Products That Work Well

Sea salt spray boosts natural texture and volume while maintaining the beachy, relaxed aesthetic effortlessly.

Styling Time & Difficulty

Quick and straightforward. Air dry whenever possible to facilitate the natural waves inherent in this style.

Messy Shag Haircut

The Messy Shag Haircut thrives on intentional chaos—embracing an untamed look that eschews formality. Offering a carefree lifestyle narrative, this cut revels in layered assertion, contributing to its adaptable, easygoing aura. Distinct from a classic shag, it goes a step further, pushing the boundaries of styling and texture into a deliberately tousled finish. Seamlessly fitting into artistic circles, it’s ideal for the on-the-go creative professional or student who finds controlled chaos desirable. This cut relies on the balance of quirky charm, confidently projecting natural disorder with strategic expertise.

Best For

This style best suits medium to thick hair, working well on round and square faces by enhancing natural contours.

How to Maintain It

Minimal maintenance. Occasional tousling with fingers and regular trims to prevent matting is all that’s necessary.

Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid over styling—this look thrives on natural disorder. Keep product usage to a minimum for ultimate effect.

Classic Shag Cut with Longer Layers

The Classic Shag Cut with Longer Layers revisits the traditional shag with an elongated approach, characterized by artful layering that retains significant length. Versatile and effortlessly stylish, it appeals to those drawn to a nostalgic aesthetic balanced by contemporary practicality. Best suited for slim, elongated face shapes, this variation lays elegantly near the shoulders. Offering a nod to the past while encapsulating present-day trends, it remains a favored choice within dynamic creative settings. Length adds depth, movement, and character—exemplifying the best qualities of its classic origins. Highlighting facial features with finesse, it is cherished for its innate elegance and flair.

Best For

Effective for oval and rectangular faces, on medium to thick hair types, showcasing length and layers harmoniously.

How to Maintain It

Regular trimming is advised to maintain balance in layers, ensuring they don’t dominate facial aesthetics.

Products That Work Well

Invest in leave-in conditioners or smoothing creams to enhance the natural shine and texture of longer layers.

Textured Shag with Fringe

Combining the best of both world, the Textured Shag with Fringe incorporates a textural top with a geometrically defined fringe, creating a dynamic, eye-catching effect. This style emphasizes structured lines while maintaining the inherently relaxed charm of a shag. It effectively draws attention to the eyes and cheekbones, complimenting a wide array of facial structures. Suitable for thick, straight hair, it offers the perfect canvas for those seeking an impactful statement without fuss. The balance between spontaneity and precision offers adaptability between laid-back and sophisticated settings, adding to its versatility and universal appeal.

Best For

This look excels on thick, straight hair, with oval and heart-shaped faces benefiting most from its dramatic fringe.

How to Make It Your Own

Adjust the fringe length to suit facial features and create distinct visual texture, fitting individual stylistic flair.

How to Maintain It

Schedule trims every four weeks to retain a striking fringe and prevent the overall shape from losing form.

Layered Short Shag Haircut

A derivation of the shag, the Layered Short Shag Haircut offers an edgier, contemporary twist by revisiting structural roots. The emphasis remains staunchly on feathered, wispy layering while skimming just above the ear level—creating a practical yet distinguished aura. With shorter layers, the style is designed for easy maintenance and greater freedom from styling constraints. Achieving this look requires a strategic arrangement, favoring men drawn to structure and simplicity. Perfect for those in metropolitan environments who appreciate minimalist upkeep that doesn’t sacrifice style, showcasing a honed artistic sensibility.

Best For

Suited for those with fine to medium hair, it complements angular and chiseled face shapes adeptly.

How to Maintain It

Maintain by scheduling regular barbershop visits every four to six weeks to retain crisp, defined layers consistently.

Products That Work Well

A lightweight gel boosts shaping control, allowing creativity in texturing to visibly enhance style dimensions.

Wavy Shag Haircut

The Wavy Shag Haircut captures the essence of natural movement and magnitude. Balancing layers with inherent wave patterns yields a flowy, elegant effect glued to dynamic cultural relevance and spontaneous flair. Tailored towards those seeking easy adaptability, this cut exemplifies natural symmetry and transitional beauty. Powering through unpredictably stylish moments, figures of prominence in varied industries frequently adapt this cut for its strategic resonance. Imbuing charm and magnetism, this variant holds an enduring spirit that continually captures imagination and attention alike.

Best For

Curved silhouettes benefit those with wavy hair textures, celebrating heart-shaped or round faces optimally.

What to Tell Your Barber

Emphasize notching and the need for naturally contoured layering to synchronize individual wave patterns thrillingly.

Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid excessive styling, allowing the waves to naturally evolve and avoid lagging structure imbalance, ensuring organic flow.

Choppy Shag Haircut

Boldly iconoclastic, the Choppy Shag Haircut capitalizes on variability while embracing a rugged, textured stance. Characteristic of deliberate yet pronounced disarray, its choppy layers present rebellious energy without losing inherent elegance. Notable for drawing creative comparisons and improving distinction, it garners preference among musicians, artists, and entrepreneurs who prize inventiveness. Heightened angles are tailored into the structure to personalize flow, making the cut effortlessly popular among the adventurous. This non-traditional iteration accommodates all settings seamlessly, merging unaffected poise with new-age artistry effortlessly.

Best For

This texture-rich style thrives with medium and coarse hair types, embodying diamond and heart-shaped facial contours superbly.

Products That Work Well

Texture-enhancing spray intertwines agility into strands seamlessly, delivering volume bursts that captivate attraction.

Styling Time & Difficulty

Minimal effort required. Emphasizing organic motion, it naturally complements those favoring a no-fuss aesthetic.