If there’s one cut we just can’t quit, it’s the shag. Why do we love it? Sure, it takes us back to a groovier, simpler time in the 70s when everyone was cool and could own houses. But the heavily layered, free-flowing cut is ideal for anyone who wants to put up an effortless front. The shag is the mother of woke-up-like-this hairdos and Instagram, barometer of all trends, is in love.
The shag also accommodates any hair type, no matter how curly or dense. A shag can have seriously bouncy curls, wavy bangs or random waves of hair framing the side of your face. Shag haircuts are usually heavy on texture and volume, which lets you get away with bad hair days and hair that’s overdue for a cut.
From Zendaya to Chloë Grace Moretz to almost every supermodel and street style icon, everyone is doing their part to usher in the era of the shag. Are you ready?
[ Next: The Swag Is the Sexy New Shag Haircut to Swoon Over ]
Instagram Is in Love With the Shag Haircut
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The Curly Shag
A heavily curled shag is the easiest to achieve, but also requires steady upkeep. Resist the urge to brush it into place every hour; just carry some curl defining cream for all-day bounce.
Image: @veronica_nunez
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A Not-So-Flat Mess
If you've got flat or fine hair, definitely ask your stylist for a shag. Light, wavy shags can totally change your look and are also easier to maintain. They'll also give you the best third-day hair.
Image: @brianaguilarhair
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The Faux Shag
If you're not quite ready for a permanent switch, just use some curling tongs to get some intense curls near the crown of your head for a shag-like structure. Work in some texturizing spray to achieve a messy look.
Image: @stephalexushairnyc
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The Tame Shag
Chloë Grace Moretz's shag is a well-behaved style with face-framing bangs. If you have straight hair and are looking for a moderate transformation, look to this simple style for inspiration.
Image: Tommaso Boddi/Getty Images for The Trevor Project
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No Styling Needed
The ideal shag doesn't need constant bathroom styling or do-overs. But you will need to invest in a volumizing spray, especially if you have short hair.
Image: @robertapecoraro
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Shaggy Angel
Victoria's Secret Angel Alanna Arrington is our shag inspiration. Alanna has sported the retro, bouncy 'do for years now, and you'll notice her styling is pretty standard. The magic of Alanna's 'do lies in the consistency of volume.
Image: Theo Wargo/Getty Images for Victoria's Secret
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Short Shag
If you have a bob and you're aiming for something shorter for the summer, try out the short shag. It's a great transitional look and accents your cheekbones.
Image: @mrdanielmartinez
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Zendaya Got the Memo
Remember when Zendaya straight up slayed the shag? If you've got shoulder-length hair, a textured shag or even a super voluminous cut can help define your jawline and accentuate your features.
Image: Steve Granitz/WireImage/Getty Images
