Best Haircuts for a Long Face Shape
6 flattering cuts, ranked. Plus what to avoid + celebrity examples.
The most flattering cuts
These cuts work with your long proportions instead of fighting them. Save this for your next salon visit.
1. Blunt Bangs
The single best move for a long face. Visually shortens face length.
2. Shoulder-length Cut with Waves
Horizontal volume at the cheek/chin breaks the vertical pull.
3. Lob
Stops at the collarbone with side-swept volume. Cuts the length perception.
4. Curls at Cheek Level
Adds horizontal width where your face is narrowest.
5. Side Part with Layers
Asymmetry breaks the vertical line.
6. Curtain Bangs
Softer than blunt bangs but still adds horizontal interest.
What to avoid
These can flatten your features or exaggerate the wrong proportions:
- Super-long straight hair with no bangs: drags the face longer
- High updos: adds vertical height to an already-long face
- Tight slicked-back styles: exposes the full length
Celebrities with a long face
Real-world references for haircut inspiration.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best haircut for a long face?
Blunt bangs are the single best move for a long face. They visually shorten the face by adding a horizontal line at the forehead. Pair them with a shoulder-length cut and waves for the most flattering result. The waves add horizontal volume at cheek and chin level, which breaks up the vertical pull of a long face.
What haircuts should long faces avoid?
Skip three things. First, super-long straight hair with no bangs, because the length drags the face longer. Second, high updos and slicked-back ponytails, since they add vertical height to a face that's already long. Third, tight slicked-back styles that fully expose the length of your face. You want horizontal volume, not vertical.
Can a long face wear bangs?
Yes, and bangs are the most important move for a long face. Blunt bangs are the best choice because they create a strong horizontal line that visually shortens your face. Curtain bangs also work as a softer option that still adds horizontal interest. Skip side-swept bangs that fall vertically, since they keep the long shape going.
How do I know if my face is long?
Measure your face length (hairline to chin) and compare it to your face width (across the cheekbones). If the length is more than 1.5 times the width, you have a long or oblong face. Your forehead, cheekbones, and jaw will all be similar widths, but the overall length is what makes the shape distinct.
Not sure if you have a long face?
The fastest way to know your face shape: take the 6-question quiz or measure your face with a tape measure. For the most accurate read, scan your face on Glowprint: the app analyzes your actual proportions in 30 seconds.