20 Trendy Shag Haircuts for Women: Modern & Stylish Looks
The shag haircut is a timeless style that has proven its versatility and appeal decade after decade. Today, it’s more popular than ever, with a modern take that blends chic vibes with an effortlessly cool aesthetic.
Whether you’re after volume, texture, or a low-maintenance yet fashionable look, the shag haircut has you covered.
This guide explores everything you need to know about the shag cut—from what makes it unique to styling techniques and must-try ideas.
What Is a Shag Haircut?
The shag haircut is characterized by layers, texture, and bangs. Originally popular in the ‘70s, modern shag haircuts maintain the core features but incorporate a contemporary twist.
The cut typically adds volume at the crown, softens the layers for more fluidity, and often features a customizable fringe.
Modern shag haircuts work on all hair types. For those with thick hair, the shag helps reduce heaviness, creating a lighter, more manageable style. On the flip side, it gives thin or fine hair the illusion of lift and fullness.
That’s the beauty of this cut—it’s adaptable to suit anyone’s unique hair texture and personal style.
Why Choose a Shag Haircut?
There are several benefits to rocking a shag cut:
- Lighten Thick Hair: Shags are ideal to remove weight and create movement for heavy, dense locks.
- Add Volume: For thinner hair, shag layers help create the appearance of added volume at the crown.
- Low Maintenance: The layered style is intentionally “undone,” requiring minimal styling compared to sleeker cuts.
- Versatile Appeal: Whether you’re aiming for vintage flair, modern chic, or edgy vibes, the shag cut can be customized for your preferences.
20 Shag Haircut Ideas for Women
1. Swoopy Layers Haircut
Perfect for medium-textured hair, this haircut features long, swooping layers designed to balance volume, enhance movement, and add dimension to your look.
The layers cascade beautifully, creating a polished yet relaxed appearance that’s easy to style. It’s a chic and contemporary twist on the timeless shag style, making it suitable for anyone seeking a modern yet classic vibe.
Whether worn sleek and straight or with soft waves, this cut offers endless versatility.
2. Shag Mullet with Bangs
This daring haircut blends the retro mullet with the classic shag to create a bold, edgy look that’s packed with personality.
It emphasizes crown volume for a dramatic profile, while the textured, eye-catching bangs frame the face beautifully and add a touch of softness to the sharp style.
Great for anyone who loves a statement-making haircut, this style is ideal for adding individuality and flair to your overall look. Pair it with bold hair colors or unique highlights to amplify the impact even further.
3. Cropped Top Haircut
For a bold, fashion-forward appearance, this short shag style features cropped layers concentrated around the crown, creating texture and volume while keeping longer pieces below for balance.
The contrast between the shorter top layers and the longer bottom section gives this haircut a dynamic and contemporary feel. Equally well-suited for thick or fine hair, it’s a versatile option that offers a playful yet polished aesthetic.
Styling it with dramatic textures or subtle waves can transform the look for any occasion, from casual outings to high-fashion events.
4. Tousled Bob
This modern take on the bob combines soft, shaggy layers with a slightly tousled finish for an effortlessly elegant and relaxed vibe.
It’s especially great for straight or wavy shoulder-length hair, as the layers create natural movement and volume without looking overdone.
The tousled texture gives it a carefree, beachy feel while remaining sophisticated enough for formal occasions.
This flexible style transitions seamlessly between casual and polished looks, making it a go-to choice for those who want chic versatility.
5. Haircut with Thick Bangs
Transform your hairstyle with heavy, face-framing bangs that instantly add a touch of glamour and drama.
These thick bangs draw attention to the eyes and cheekbones, creating a bold yet refined look.
This chic option pairs especially well with deep, rich colors like auburn, brunette, or jet black, enhancing the overall sophistication of the style.
Whether paired with sleek, straight strands or soft, textured layers, thick bangs offer a timelessly elegant upgrade to your hair.
6. Feathered Two-Layer Cut
For those who prefer subtler styles, the feathered two-layer cut is a perfect choice. This haircut creates movement and lightness with soft, fluffy layers at the crown while keeping the lower section simple and structured.
The layers are delicately feathered to give your hair a naturally airy and lightweight feel.
It’s an excellent option for anyone looking to add depth and texture to their hairstyle without going over the top.
This style works well with all hair types, making it a versatile and fuss-free choice.
7. Forward-Swept Style
This unique shag cut sweeps forward toward the face, drawing attention to your features and creating an eye-catching silhouette.
The delicate, feathered layers add texture and volume, making this an excellent choice for finer hair that needs a little extra lift and personality.
The forward-swept design creates a beautiful framing effect, emphasizing facial features like the eyes, cheekbones, and jawline.
Perfect for those seeking a standout look, this cut works well with both natural textures and styled finishes.
8. Medium Shag with Peek-a-Boo Bangs
This feminine and playful hairstyle combines shoulder-length layers with soft, curtain-like bangs that frame the face gently.
The flowing layers add softness and movement, giving the haircut an effortlessly stylish appearance.
Peek-a-boo bangs offer a polished yet relaxed touch to the overall look, creating a balance between casual charm and professional refinement.
This style is perfect for someone who wants a manageable yet polished haircut that suits both everyday life and special occasions.
9. Wavy Shaggy Lob
The longer version of the classic shag, the wavy shaggy lob, is casual yet sophisticated. With flowy, textured tendrils and an easygoing charm, this haircut is perfect for those who want a low-maintenance yet stylish look.
The shoulder-grazing length gives it a modern edge, while the waves add softness and movement, making it versatile enough for both relaxed settings and formal events.
Whether paired with natural highlights or bold colors, this style can be easily dressed up or down for any occasion.
10. Choppy Lob with Bangs
Designed for thicker hair, this layered lob features angular, choppy layers that create dimension and movement. The layers are carefully cut to reduce bulk while adding shape, ensuring a balanced and flattering silhouette.
Side-swept bangs enhance the look by framing the face elegantly, making this style both modern and sophisticated.
It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking for a standout haircut that’s versatile enough to wear anywhere, from the office to a night out.
11. Midi Cut with Wispy Layers
Channeling the spirit of retro music icons, this midi cut exudes effortless rock-and-roll energy that feels both timeless and modern.
The addition of wispy layers creates a soft, edgy texture that moves beautifully with every turn of your head.
This style works especially well for medium to thick hair, giving it a lived-in, tousled look that’s easy to maintain.
It’s perfect for those who want a subtle touch of rebellion and individuality in their everyday style.
12. Neck-Length Shaggy Wavy Cut
This neck-length shaggy cut combines rich, dark undertones with vibrant, face-brightening highlights for a look that strikes the perfect balance between polished and playful.
The soft waves add natural movement and texture, giving the haircut a relaxed, breezy feel. The shaggy layers ensure it’s modern and versatile—ideal for transitioning seamlessly from work meetings to casual weekend outings.
It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to add depth and dimension to their hair.
13. Midi Shag with Curtain Bangs
Featuring parted curtain bangs and mid-length layers, this midi shag is all about effortless charm. The layered cut frames the face flawlessly, enhancing natural features while adding a relaxed, stylish vibe.
The curtain bangs soften the overall look, creating a chic, flattering silhouette that works for all face shapes and hair types.
It’s a low-maintenance style that still feels trendy, making it a go-to option for anyone seeking a polished yet easygoing appearance.
14. Flared Shoulder-Length Shag
This shoulder-brushing cut is designed for drama and volume. The dynamic layers flare out at the ends, creating a bold, eye-catching effect that’s full of life.
Using a styling gel or a texturizing spray helps to define each layer, making the flared edges stand out even more.
The style is perfect for anyone who wants to add energy and movement to their hair while maintaining a confident, daring aesthetic. Whether you’re heading to a concert or a date night, this shag will turn heads.
15. Straight Razored Shag with Bangs
Precision-cut for a sleek and polished finish, this razored shag delivers a refined, contemporary look while maintaining plenty of personality.
The razored edges add softness and dimension, making this cut ideal for straight or slightly wavy hair.
Pairing it with light, cool-toned hues like ash blonde or platinum enhances its modern vibe.
The bangs add a chic, face-framing touch, blending seamlessly with the rest of the layers for a clean, sophisticated look that’s perfect for both casual and formal settings.
16. Shaggy Bob with Messy Layers
Perfect for fine or thinning hair, this carefree shaggy bob is all about adding volume and texture. The playful, messy layers create a relaxed, tousled vibe that’s easy to style and maintain.
Face-framing blonde highlights brighten the cut, adding depth and dimension while keeping the overall look light and airy.
This cut is perfect for anyone who wants a stylish yet low-maintenance option that works well for any occasion, from casual brunches to professional meetings.
17. Choppy Shaggy Bob
Give your straight locks a bold, modern upgrade with this choppy shaggy bob. The textured layers add an edgy, tousled effect that’s both trendy and flattering.
This style works beautifully with straight or slightly wavy hair, creating a relaxed but stylish aesthetic.
The eye-catching bangs draw attention to the eyes and cheekbones, adding a little extra drama to the overall look. It’s a fresh, youthful haircut that exudes confidence and personality.
18. Butterfly Bangs with Layers
Inspired by the delicate shape of butterfly wings, this airy cut features soft, feathered bangs and cascading layers.
The face-framing bangs give the style a youthful, fresh appearance, while the layers add movement and texture. This combination creates a light, playful aesthetic that feels sophisticated yet approachable.
It’s a fantastic choice for anyone looking to add softness and volume to their hair while maintaining a chic, effortless vibe.
19. Disheveled Shag with Caramel Highlights
This disheveled shag offers a natural, carefree vibe that’s perfect for those who love an effortless look. Enhanced by subtle babylights or caramel tones, this style adds a warm, sun-kissed glow to your hair.
The soft highlights create depth and dimension, emphasizing the natural movement of the layers.
This low-maintenance shag is ideal for laid-back individuals who want a hairstyle that looks great without requiring too much effort.
20. Textured Shullet
The “shullet” is a bold, modern twist on the classic shag and mullet hybrid. This cut combines the layered texture of a shag with the defined silhouette of a mullet, resulting in a daring, fashion-forward look.
Perfect for anyone who loves to stand out, the textured shullet offers plenty of volume and personality.
The layers can be styled to add extra flair, making it a versatile option for those who want a statement haircut that celebrates individuality while embracing retro-inspired trends.
How to Style a Shag Haircut
Shag haircuts are incredibly versatile, and styling them is relatively simple. Here’s how to make the most of your new cut:
- Effortless Waves: Add a touch of salt spray to damp strands and scrunch for low-key waves.
- Root Volume: Use a blow dryer with a round brush to lift the roots for a bolder shape.
- Flat Iron Magic: Add slight bends to some layers for texture using a flat iron.
- Messy Finish: Finger-comb your strands for an elegantly chaotic, tousled appearance.
- Products Matter: Dry shampoo and texturizing sprays are your best friends for maintaining bounce and fullness.
Your Perfect Shag Cut Awaits
With its retro roots and modern versatility, the shag haircut is the ultimate blend of style and practicality.
Whether you opt for a full-on rocker vibe or a subtle, soft-layered look, the possibilities are endless. Experiment, express yourself, and discover the perfect version of the shag for your style.
