A modern shag is one of the most versatile cuts you can get. It works on any length, texture, or level of re-growth—seriously, this is the best way to mask your in-between lob. A modern shag relies on subtle layers to create shape and volume, that are never in your face but still allow movement and texture. Here are the best ways to wear the most hyper flattering cut of the moment/of all time.
The Long of the Short
Long layers are the hack you need to know when growing out a shorter style. Chin-length strands add a face-framing element to this fresh shag that looks current and deliberate—instead of like your waiting for your hair to grow— courtesy of haircutter aficionado Anh Co Tran.
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A Softer Side
This soft undercut with intermingled layers is a segue to bangs (though without the full commitment) in another look by Anh Co Tran.
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Ghost Layers
Ghost layer king, stylist Ramon Garcia, molds long waves by invisibly blending strands of all sizes
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Pixie Mini
Micro-bangs on a pixie create an overall edgy feel, via Ramon Garcia.
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Shagged Auburn
Nine Zero One stylist Nikki Lee created Sarah Hyland's shag as she was looking to embrace her natural texture and length. "This look is perfect for festival season and looks best on naturally curly or wavy hair. Magic Myst is my go-to product to add healthy texture!” said Nikki of the style.
Image via Nikki Lee
Go Big
Give a modern shag mega volume (without much work) by plumping and teasing the intricate layers already present in the cut, like this epic style for Taylor Hill by celeb stylist Harry Josh.
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Shaggy Curls
Straight-haired ladies aren’t the only ones that can reap the benefits of a shag—ringlets are enhanced through a multi-layered cut, as seen on Laura Harrier by Hollywood stylist Lacy Redway.
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Tapered Lob
Lacy Redway has given Sarah Paulson’s otherwise fine hair some serious texture with this modern shag cut, thanks to tapered ends of varied (though similar) lengths.
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Blunt Bob
Redken stylist Jenny Balding adds softness to a blunt bob by molding ends with a razor.
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Lady Bird Shag
Longer layers in the front, coupled with shorter ends towards the back, helps eliminate tangles while keeping hair contoured in this Lady Bird inspired style also by Jenny Balding.
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Chillet
Otherwise known as a “chill mullet,” this look by celeb stylist Riawna Capri is a definitively modern blast from the past, as the shag meets the mullet, meets effortless structure.
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Full Fringe
Julianne Hough is living her best hair life with this inward-shaped modern shag and full fringe by her go-to, Riawna Capri.
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HERE’s everything you need to know about ghost layers, aka the inside of your shag.
