Guide
Best Hairstyles for Oblong Faces (Women): 12 Flattering Cuts
The best hairstyles for women with oblong faces add width and shorten the face: bangs (blunt or curtain), chin-length bobs, shoulder-length waves, layered shags and voluminous curls. Avoid very long, flat, straight hair and height at the crown.
The two rules
- Add width. Volume at the sides, near the cheekbones and jaw, balances length.
- Don't add height. Top knots, teased crowns and slicked-back styles stretch the face.
12 hairstyles for oblong faces
- Curtain bangs: soften the forehead and add width.
- Blunt bangs: the most effective way to shorten a tall forehead.
- Chin-length bob: creates a horizontal line at the jaw.
- Lob with waves: width without much commitment.
- Layered shag: choppy layers through the sides.
- Voluminous curls: curls spread outward.
- Side part with volume.
- Shoulder-length layers.
- French bob with bangs.
- Wolf cut: volume around the cheeks.
- Half-up with face-framing pieces.
- Low, loose ponytail with tendrils.
What to avoid
- Very long, flat, straight hair.
- High buns, top knots and teased crowns.
- Severe middle parts with no volume.
Celebrity inspiration
Sarah Jessica Parker often wears curls and bangs; Liv Tyler and Gisele Bündchen favor waves.
Check your face shape first
Oblong is often confused with oval. Use the face shape detector or read oval vs oblong.
Frequently asked questions
Do bangs suit oblong faces?
Yes. Bangs are one of the best ways to shorten an oblong face.
Can I have long hair with an oblong face?
Yes. Add layers and waves so it doesn't hang flat, and consider bangs.
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