Soft shag haircuts are making a big comeback in 2025, offering a relaxed, yet edgy style that works with nearly every face shape and hair type. The beauty of the shag is its ability to blend effortless texture with flattering layers, giving you a laid-back, voluminous look without much maintenance. If you’re craving something new that still feels comfortable and chic, the soft shag is an easy choice.
In this article, we’re sharing 14 soft shag haircut ideas that will be the go-to styles this year. These cuts embrace both softness and structure, adding movement to your hair without feeling overly done. Whether you like subtle waves or a more tousled, rock-and-roll look, these shags are as versatile as they are stylish.
The Classic Layered Shag
The classic layered shag is making a comeback with its effortlessly chic appeal. This style features soft layers that add volume and texture, making it ideal for fine hair. The layers start around the crown and cascade down, adding movement and bounce.
Natural highlights can enhance this look, adding depth and dimension. This timeless style can be worn by anyone but is particularly flattering for those with oval or heart-shaped faces. It transitions beautifully from day to night, offering versatility for any occasion. Style with a texturizing spray for added volume.
Modern Pixie Shag
The modern pixie shag is perfect for those seeking a bold, edgy look. This haircut combines a pixie’s shortness with shag’s signature layers, creating a dynamic, textured effect. The choppy layers add volume and movement, making it suitable for all hair types.
A vibrant color, such as red or platinum, can elevate the style, adding a modern twist. It’s an excellent choice for those with round or square face shapes. Maintenance is minimal, requiring regular trims to keep the shape. Pair with statement earrings for a chic appearance.
Beachy Waves Shag
Embrace a relaxed, carefree look with the beachy waves shag. This style features long, tousled waves that exude a sun-kissed, effortless vibe. The layers are strategically placed to enhance the natural texture, perfect for those with wavy or curly hair.
Sun-kissed highlights add a touch of brightness, mimicking the effect of a day at the beach. This haircut is versatile, flattering most face shapes, and requires minimal styling. A leave-in conditioner or sea salt spray can enhance the waves, providing a laid-back, stylish finish.
Curly Shag with Bangs
The curly shag with bangs offers a playful twist on the traditional shag. This style showcases defined curls, layered to add volume and shape. Curtain bangs frame the face, softening the overall appearance and adding an element of sophistication.
It’s a perfect option for those with naturally curly hair, as it enhances the natural curl pattern. The layers prevent the curls from appearing too heavy, allowing for a light, airy feel. Minimal styling is needed; a curl-defining cream can help maintain the look. Great for all face shapes.
Retro Long Shag
The retro long shag brings back the iconic style of the 70s with a modern twist. This haircut features long, voluminous layers that create movement and body. The retro vibe is perfect for those who love a nostalgic look.
Pairing this style with a fringe can add character, framing the face beautifully. It’s ideal for those with thick hair, as the layers reduce bulk without sacrificing length. Regular trims help maintain the shape and prevent split ends. Wear with flared jeans and boots for an authentic retro feel.
Wispy Shag for Fine Hair
The wispy shag is tailored for those with fine hair, offering a light, airy appearance. This style features delicate layers that add subtle volume without weighing down the hair. It’s a versatile option that suits various face shapes.
The wispy layers create a soft, feminine look, perfect for everyday wear. A blow-dryer and round brush can enhance the volume, while a light hair spray keeps it in place. This haircut is easy to maintain and offers a fresh, youthful appearance, making it a popular choice among younger women.
Textured Bob Shag
The textured bob shag combines the elegance of a bob with the edginess of a shag. This chin-length haircut features subtle layers that add texture and movement, making it an ideal choice for professional settings.
The style is perfect for those with straight or wavy hair, as the layers add dimension without overwhelming the face. It’s versatile, easily transitioning from work to weekend activities. A styling mousse can enhance the texture, and a flat iron can add sleekness. This haircut exudes confidence and sophistication.
Layered Shag for Thick Hair
The layered shag for thick hair is designed to manage volume while adding style. This haircut features layers that reduce bulk and create a balanced, harmonious look. It’s particularly flattering for those with thick, coarse hair.
The style offers versatility, suitable for both casual and formal occasions. A dark brunette shade can highlight the texture, adding depth and richness. Regular trims are essential to maintain the shape and prevent heaviness. Pair with bold accessories for a fashionable, urban look that’s both practical and chic.
Bohemian Shag with Braids
The bohemian shag with braids adds an artistic, free-spirited touch to the shag trend. This style features long layers and small braids integrated into the haircut, creating a whimsical, bohemian vibe.
It’s an excellent choice for creative individuals who love to experiment with their look. The braids add a unique element, enhancing the texture and movement. This style is perfect for festivals or casual outings. A texturizing cream can define the layers, while a hair accessory like a flower crown adds flair. It’s fun and expressive.
Asymmetrical Shag Cut
The asymmetrical shag cut offers a modern, bold take on the traditional shag. This style features varied lengths on either side, creating an edgy, artistic silhouette. Side-swept bangs add a touch of drama, framing the face elegantly.
It’s ideal for those looking to make a statement, providing a unique twist to the classic shag. Suitable for most hair types, it offers flexibility and creativity. A styling gel can enhance the asymmetry, while a sleek finish adds polish. This haircut is sure to turn heads and capture attention.
Choppy Shag with Undercut
The choppy shag with undercut is for the fearless and adventurous. This style combines shag’s choppy layers with the boldness of an undercut, offering a dynamic, rebellious look. The undercut provides contrast, highlighting the shag’s texture.
Vibrant blue or purple highlights can further enhance the style, adding an edgy, modern flair. It’s perfect for those with thick hair, as the undercut reduces bulk. Maintenance involves regular trims to keep the undercut sharp. This haircut exudes confidence and individuality, making it a standout choice for trendsetters.
Feathered Shag for Oval Faces
The feathered shag is tailored specifically for oval face shapes, offering a soft, flattering silhouette. This style features feathered layers that add movement and elegance, enhancing the natural beauty of an oval face.
The layers are lightweight, creating a graceful, feminine look suitable for various occasions. A touch of hairspray can add volume, while a blow-dryer helps maintain the shape. This haircut is both versatile and stylish, appealing to those who appreciate a classic yet contemporary appearance. It’s a favorite among professionals and creatives alike.
Natural Shag for Curly Hair
The natural shag for curly hair embraces the beauty of tight curls, offering a structured yet relaxed style. This haircut features layered curls that enhance volume and shape, creating a balanced, harmonious look.
It’s perfect for those with naturally curly hair, as it showcases the curl pattern without weighing it down. The layers prevent frizz, adding definition and bounce. A curl-enhancing mousse can maintain the style, while minimal heat styling preserves the curls’ integrity. This haircut exudes confidence and natural beauty, suitable for all ages.
Minimalist Shag for Straight Hair
The minimalist shag is designed for those with straight hair, offering a sleek, understated look. This style features subtle layers that add texture without sacrificing the sleekness of straight hair.
It’s an excellent choice for those who prefer simplicity and elegance, with minimal fuss. A flat iron can enhance the sleekness, while a light styling cream adds shine. This haircut transitions effortlessly from day to night, providing versatility for different occasions. It’s a modern, chic option for those who appreciate subtlety and refinement in their style.