Best Hairstyles for Oblong Face Shape - Ideas for Men & Women
Discover flattering hairstyles, beard styles, and styling techniques specifically designed to balance and enhance oblong face proportions.
Finding the perfect hairstyle for an face shape hairstyle can transform your entire look. An face shape is characterized by a long, narrow structure where the face length significantly exceeds the width. The forehead, cheeks, and jaw typically measure similar in width, creating straight vertical lines down the sides. The goal of face shape hairstyles is to add width and break up the vertical length, creating a more balanced appearance. This comprehensive guide explores the best haircuts for both men and women with face shapes, including beard styles, fringe techniques, and curly or wavy and waves hairstyles that naturally add the width you need. Whether you're considering a lob, a textured crop, or want to know if bangs suit your oblong face, we'll cover every option to help you find your ideal look. Want to confirm your face shape before choosing a new hairstyle? Try the CaraComp face analysis tool for a personalized assessment.
What Is an Oblong Face Shape?
An face shape is one of the most distinctive face shapes, defined by its elongated proportions. The key characteristic is that the face length is significantly greater than the width, often by a ratio of 1.5:1 or more. Unlike oval , which have similar length but more balanced proportions, oblong faces appear noticeably longer and narrower. The sides of the face run relatively straight from the temples to the jaw, and the chin is typically rounded rather than angular.
To identify if you have an face shape, measure your face length from hairline to chin and compare it to the width at the widest point of your cheekbones. If the length is considerably greater, you likely have an oblong face. Some people also refer to this as a rectangular face or long face, though true oblong have softer, more rounded features compared to the angular jawline of rectangular faces.
The reason width-adding hairstyles work best for oblong is simple: they counterbalance the natural length of the oblong face. By creating volume at the sidess rather than height at the top, you visually widen the face and create more harmonious proportions. This principle applies whether you have short hair, medium length, or long hair—the key is always directing attention horizontally rather than vertically. You may also find our guide on square face shape hairstyles helpful for understanding different styling approaches.
Best Women's Oblong Face Shape Hairstyles
Women with oblong faces have numerous flattering hairstyle options, all centered around the goal of adding horizontal width and visually shortening the face length. The most universally flattering choice is a lob (long bob) that falls around jaw or shoulder length. This style naturally adds width at the sides of the face, breaking up the vertical lines while maintaining a modern, elegant appearance.
Voluminous curls and waves are also exceptional choices for oblong . The natural texture creates automatic width without requiring excessive styling effort. When you incorporate long layers at cheek level, you add even more dimension and volume right where it's needed most. These layers should be soft and blended to avoid creating harsh lines that could emphasize the face length.
Side-swept fringe or bangs serve as powerful tools for this type hairstyles. By cutting across the forehead horizontally, fringe immediately breaks the vertical line of your face and draws the eye sideways. Curtain bangs work particularly well because they frame the face on both sides while adding . Wispy, layered bangs blend seamlessly with layered cuts, creating movement and dimension.
The hairstyles to avoid include very long straight styles with no volume, center parts that emphasize the face , and sleek high updos that pull all hair away from the sides. These styles accentuate rather than balance the natural proportions of your face shapes.
| Hairstyle | Effect | Face height Reduced | Added | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lob (Long Bob) | Adds at jaw level | Very Good | High | Highly recommended |
| Shoulder-length Waves | Natural width, breaks length | Excellent | High | Highly recommended |
| Side-Swept Fringe + Layers | Softens forehead, adds volume | Very Good | Medium | Recommended |
| Curly Bob | Maximum width at sides | Excellent | Very High | Highly recommended |
| parted bangs with dimension | Frames face, adds side | Very Good | High | Highly recommended |
| Long Straight (no volume) | Emphasizes face length | Poor | None | Avoid |
| Sleek High Ponytail | Adds vertical height | Poor | None | Avoid |
Best Short Hairstyles for Oblong Faces
Short hairstyles can be incredibly flattering for oblong face shapes when executed with the right techniques. The key is ensuring that the short doesn't eliminate all side volume. A pixie cut with volume directed toward the sides rather than the top creates the needed to balance an . Side-swept short fringe adds horizontal interest and breaks up the face length effectively.
layered bobs that fall just below the ears work beautifully for your face shapes. The should be cut with dimension that create fullness at the sides, and styling products can enhance this natural volume. Short curly styles are particularly advantageous because the automatically provide the dimension that oblong faces benefit from.
For those wanting a truly short look, a cropped cut with side-swept fringe maintains balance. The fringe component is crucial—it prevents the style from emphasizing the face . Adding texture through point cutting or razoring creates movement that fills out the rather than sitting flat against the head.
Avoid very cropped cuts that are slicked back or have significant height at the top with faded , as these accentuate the vertical proportions. Instead, opt for brief styles where the volume and interest remain distributed horizontally across the face.
The key is ensuring that the short doesn't eliminate all side volume
Best Men's Hairstyles for Oblong Face Shape
Men with oblong face shapes should focus on haircuts that add at the sides while keeping the top relatively low in height. The ivy league hairstyle is ideal for your face shapes because it maintains a controlled, low profile on top with natural volume at the . This classic cut has been popular for decades precisely because it creates balanced proportions.
A classic side part is another excellent choice for men with oblong faces. By sweeping the hair sideways rather than up, you create horizontal lines that counteract the face length. When paired with slightly fuller edges rather than a tight fade, this style prevents the face from appearing elongated.
The trim has become increasingly popular for men seeking modern, low-maintenance hairshort cuts. For shapes, the cut should feature texture and volume at the sides with a brief, manageable top. Avoid crops with excessive height, as they will lengthen the face further. Instead, request that your barber keep the top and direct the styling sideways.
Low gradient hairshort cuts work well for men with oblong face shapes, provided the isn't styled too high. The taper should be gradual, maintaining some breadth at the rather than creating stark contrast. Full sides with minimal offer the most expanse and are generally the most flattering option.
Hairshort cuts to avoid include mohawks, faux hawks, high fades with long tops, and pompadours with significant height. Slicked-back styles also tend to emphasize the height of oblong faces. The guiding principle for men is simple: width good, height bad.
| Hairstyle | Effect | Face height Reduced | Added | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lob (Long Bob) | Adds at jaw level | Very Good | High | Highly recommended |
| Shoulder-length Waves | Natural width, breaks length | Excellent | High | Highly recommended |
| Side-Swept Fringe + Layers | Softens forehead, adds volume | Very Good | Medium | Recommended |
| Curly Bob | Maximum width at sides | Excellent | Very High | Highly recommended |
| parted bangs with dimension | Frames face, adds side | Very Good | High | Highly recommended |
| Long Straight (no volume) | Emphasizes face length | Poor | None | Avoid |
| Sleek High Ponytail | Adds vertical height | Poor | None | Avoid |
Best Beard Styles for Oblong Faces
For with shapes, a well-groomed beard can be a game-changer in creating facial balance. The golden rule is to add , not —avoid facial hair styles that elongate the chin or create downward visual lines. A full that's kept rounded and fuller at the is the most effective choice. This style adds width across the lower face, counterbalancing the natural length of shapes.
facial hair length should be strategic: keep it longer at the of the face (along the jawline and cheeks) while maintaining a shorter, more rounded shape at the chin. This creates the illusion of a wider face without adding to the vertical proportions. with oblong faces should aim for a that extends outward rather than downward.
Mutton chops and fuller cheek beards work exceptionally well for oblong shapes. These styles maximize at the edges while keeping the chin area manageable. Even brief stubble, when kept full and even around the sides, provides subtle enhancement.
The styles to avoid are long chin-forward beards, pointed goatees, and soul patches—all of which draw the eye downward and emphasize the features . Similarly, beards that are trimmed too on the edges but left long at the chin create the opposite of the you're trying to achieve.
Regular maintenance is essential. Use quality oil to keep the hair healthy and groomed, and trim every few weeks to maintain the rounded, breadth-enhancing shape. Many men with oblong face shapes find that a professional barber can help establish the right shape, which they can then maintain at home.
Fringe, Curtain Bangs & Width-Adding Techniques
Fringe and forward fringe are among the most powerful styling tools for oblong shapes. By creating a horizontal line across the forehead, immediately cuts the visual length of the , making it appear shorter and more balanced. This technique works for both men and women and can be adapted to virtually any hair type and height.
Blunt creates a strong horizontal line that dramatically reduces the appearance of . This style works best for women with straight or slightly wavy hair, though it requires regular trimming to maintain the precise line. Side-swept forward fringe offer a softer, more versatile alternative that suits a wider range of shapes and hair textures.
Curtain have surged in popularity for good reason—they're exceptionally flattering for oblong shapes. By parting in the center and framing both of the , curtain forward fringe add breadth exactly where it's needed. The length typically falls at cheekbone level, creating horizontal interest and breaking up the vertical lines. This style works beautifully for both straight and wavy hair.
For men, a side-swept front section incorporated into hairshort cuts like the dimensional or ivy league provides similar -breaking benefits. The should be long enough to sweep across the forehead but not so long that it falls into the eyes. Styling with a matte product helps maintain the shape throughout the day.
-adding techniques extend beyond . Styling the sides of your hair with volume—whether through blow-drying, curling, or using volumizing products—creates the width that flatters oblong shapes. Avoid slicking hair back or using center parts with no volume, as these emphasize the rather than counteracting it.
By creating a horizontal line across the forehead, immediately cuts the visual length of the , making it appear shorter and more balanced
Curly, Wavy & Textured Ideas for Oblong Faces
Natural and waves are a secret weapon for those with oblong shapes. The inherent texture automatically provides and volume without requiring extensive styling effort. Curly hair naturally expands outward, creating the width that balances a long appearance. For more on this topic, see our guide on face shape detector.
For women with hair, shoulder- hit the sweet spot for oblong shapes. This provides enough hair to frame the with volume while avoiding the downward pull of very long . short cut into wavy hair enhance the width effect by allowing spiral to spring outward at different levels. Avoiding heavy at the bottom prevents the style from becoming triangular.
, whether natural or styled, create similar benefits with a softer appearance. Jaw-height texture are particularly flattering for oblong face shapes, as they create maximum at the midpoint of the features. Beach styled with sea salt spray provide effortless texture that enhances the natural shape of the hair.
with naturally or wavy hair should embrace the texture rather than fighting it. A that preserves natural curl creates ideal at the . The key is keeping the crown cropped enough that don't add excessive height while allowing the edges to maintain fullness. Products designed for hair help define individual and prevent frizz without weighing down the natural volume. For more on this topic, see our guide on square face shape hairstyles.
For those with straight hair who want to incorporate or texture, various styling techniques can help. Braiding damp hair overnight creates gentle texture, while curling irons or wands can add more defined texture. The goal is always to create texture that moves outward rather than straight down, maximizing the -adding benefit for oblong face shapes.
Texture enhancing products—from mousse to curl creams to texturizing sprays—help accentuate natural and . Apply these products to damp hair, scrunch upward, and allow hair to air dry or use a diffuser attachment on your dryer. The result is enhanced texture that adds the breadth dimension oblong faces need.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hairstyles suit an oblong shape?
Hairstyles that suit an oblong face shape are those that add and break up the vertical height. The best options include shoulder-height cuts with volume, lobs, side-swept forward fringe or , and styles with or texture that create width. For , dimensional crops, ivy league cuts, and classic side parts work well. The key is avoiding excessive height at the upper section while maximizing volume at the edges.
Should someone with an oblong features shape get forward fringe or front section?
Yes, someone with an oblong face shape should strongly consider or front section. These styles create a horizontal line across the forehead that visually shortens the . Curtain are particularly flattering because they add at the sides while breaking the vertical line. Side-swept forward fringe offer a softer option that's easy to maintain and works with various hair types.
What men's haircuts work best for an oblong face shape?
The best men's haircuts for an oblong shape include the ivy league, layered , and classic side part lateral parting. These styles keep height low while maintaining or adding at the sides. Low fades with fuller work better than high fades, and any style should direct hair sideways rather than upward. Pairing these haircuts with a facial hair that adds at the jawline further enhances facial balance.
Is a lob (long bob) good for an oblong shape?
Yes, long bob) is excellent for an oblong face shape. The , typically falling between the jawline and shoulders, naturally adds breadth at the of the face where it's needed most. Lobs can be styled with for additional volume, paired with curtain forward forward section for even more , or kept straight with side volume. This versatile cut works across different hair types and is one of the most universally flattering styles for oblong shapes.
Can spiral or wavy hair flatter an oblong shape?
Absolutely. and wavy hair are among the most flattering textures for oblong shapes. The natural texture automatically creates and volume at the without requiring extensive styling. Shoulder- and jaw-height texture are particularly effective because they add dimension at the midpoint of the look. For both women and men, embracing natural texture rather than straightening or slicking back the hair will enhance facial balance.
What facial hair style suits a man with an oblong shape?
A full that's rounded and fuller at the suits with oblong face shapes best. The facial hair should be longer along the jawline and cheeks while kept shorter and rounded at the chin. This adds horizontal without increasing . Avoid pointed goatees or long chin-forward facial hair styles, as these emphasize the vertical proportions. Even cropped stubble, when kept full at the edges, provides subtle enhancement.
Is the ivy league hairstyle ideal for an oblong face shape?
Yes, the ivy league hairstyle is ideal for oblong shapes. This classic cut maintains a low profile on upper section while preserving natural volume at the edges, creating the horizontal balance that oblong faces need. The ivy league avoids the height that would further elongate the face while providing a neat, professional appearance. It works well for various hair types and can be easily maintained, making it one of the recommendations for men with oblong shapes.
Oblong Face Shape Hairstyles Summary
Selecting the right hairstyle for an oblong shape comes down to three fundamental principles: add , soften length, and avoid excessive height. Whether you're a woman exploring various oblong face hairstyles or a man looking for the perfect face hairstyle, these guidelines will steer you toward the most flattering options. For more on this topic, see our guide on oval face shape hairstyles men.
For women, the crown three recommendations are the lob (long bob), which provides breadth at the jawline; side-swept forward hair or curtain , which break the vertical line of the ; and shoulder-length or , which naturally add the width needed. Any of these styles can be customized to your personal aesthetic while honoring the core principle of balancing your face shape.
For , the three recommendations are the ivy league short cut, which maintains low height with side ; a dimensional with minimal , which emphasizes horizontal rather than vertical lines; and a classic paired with a full facial hair that adds at the jawline. These haircuts work across different hair types and can be adapted for professional or casual settings.
Remember that face shapes are guidelines, not rigid rules. Some people with oblong shapes may have additional features—such as a prominent forehead or narrow jaw—that warrant slight modifications to these recommendations. The beauty of understanding your face shape is that it empowers you to make informed decisions about which styles will be most flattering.
Ready to explore how different hairstyles might look with your specific facial features? The CaraComp face analysis tool can help you visualize different haircuts and styles before making a commitment. By uploading your photo, you can experiment virtually with various oblong shape hairstyles and find your perfect match.