You’ve decided you want to change-up your hair. First step, done. Now what to go for? Decisions, decisions. Trends are forever changing, and despite our plans for a dramatic transformation, we always seem to bottle it once we’re bound to the chair: ‘just a trim please’. When choosing your style, consider your face shape, hair type and how much time you’re happy to spend styling it… Remember, change is good, and hair grows back. Which haircut suits you? Let’s see.
By Rachel Spedding
-
1 Dear fine hair
Though we clearly see the benefits – using less shampoo, numero uno – there are styles that will help to encourage volume, if that’s what you’re after. Keep it short – lighter hair will hold a style more easily – think ‘wob’ (explanation here), or work with your straight texture and choose the true bob. It’s a fuss-free, low-maintenance style that’s perfect for those who like to roll out of bed and go (me me me).
-
2 Face-framing
If your face is round, and you’re determined to elongate it, your hairstyle can help. Backcombing at the crown adds literal height, so will help imitate the appearance of an oval face shape. Virgin hair – long locks, without layers – is the style we’d suggest. Think Haim, 2017. If you’re keen to cut, keep the length beneath the chin, anything shorter will emphasise a round face. We say cute, but it’s your call.
-
3 SOS, it's greasy
From 50s Hepburn, to noughties J-Law, and Emily Ratajowski in that wig, the pixie haircut is always a good idea if your hair is greasy. The style dries quickly, if you’re a daily washer, while a spritz of dry shampoo will add a welcome volume boost – two birds, one stone (and a great haircut). Sure, it’s a radical change, but takes two minutes to style (if at all). Make like Eleven on really greasy days, and slick it back. Smart.
-
4 Curly hair, we've got you
Another time trip. Born in the 80s, and cool right through to today, we’re lovers of the permed curl. If your hair is full of bounce (think SJP in Sex And The City), keep the length, with a few face-framing tendrils or embrace a strong side part for lots of volume. If your curls are looser, a shorter style works well. The ‘long bob’ will accentuate your hair’s natural wave; that’s the style you’ve been admiring on your Insta feed for the last year.
-
5 Long with layers
It takes some growing, but long, long hair is worth it. If you’re aiming for down-to-there hair (or you’ve already reached it, congrats), layers will add movement and texture. Ask for a voluminous blow dry if you’re coveting Meghan Markle, or scrunch with salt spray if beach waves are more your kind of jam. Layers are super versatile and can be as subtle as you wish. Just chat to your stylist, they’ll sort those long locks out.
No more waiting, let's do it. With Treatwell, you can book beauty online at all your favourite salons – simple, hassle-free, and you can do it on the go. Discover amazing salons in your area for your next wax.
FAQs
How do you choose a haircut that suits your hair type?
Start by considering your face shape, hair type and how much time you want to spend styling. Some cuts like the bob or wob are great for fine hair and require minimal effort, while layered long hair adds texture and movement. The right style will make day-to-day styling easier and help you feel confident.
Which hairstyles work best for fine hair if you want more volume?
Shorter styles such as the bob or wob can make fine hair look fuller. Keeping hair lighter helps it hold a style more easily and these cuts are fuss-free, requiring little daily maintenance. Fine hair also uses less shampoo, making these styles practical.
What haircuts help elongate a round face shape?
Long, layer-free hair (virgin hair) helps elongate a round face, especially when kept past the chin. Backcombing at the crown adds height and imitates an oval face. Avoiding shorter cuts prevents emphasis on roundness, allowing you to create a more balanced look.
How can you style hair if it gets oily quickly?
A pixie cut is ideal for oily hair since it dries fast and is easy to wash daily. A quick application of dry shampoo adds volume and keeps the style fresh, while slicking the hair back on the oiliest days gives a smart, polished finish. This cut also saves you time styling each morning.
What’s a good haircut if you have naturally curly hair?
Leaving curly hair longer with face-framing tendrils maintains bounce and shows off natural texture. A strong side part adds volume, and for looser curls, a long bob highlights your waves. These styles let you embrace your natural curl with flair and minimal fuss.
How do layers benefit very long hair?
Layers add movement and texture to long, straight hair, making it look healthy and full. For more volume, ask for a blow dry, or use salt spray for relaxed, beachy waves. Layers are versatile and can be as subtle or dramatic as you want, so you can find the perfect fit for your style.