Expert consulted: 
The shag is back. Not that it ever really left – it just took a five-decade sabbatical and grew out its fringe.
Born in the gloriously louche 70s, the shag haircut has been given a 2026 update. Think choppy layers, curtain bangs and mussed-up texture that Mick Jagger would be proud of. Not to mention the rock 'n' roll swagger of Stevie Nicks. Mother, father, we're doing you proud.
The beauty of today's shag is that it's become surprisingly democratic (read: versatile). Curly, straight, long, short, thick, fine – everyone's invited. It's less one size fits all and more make it your own. So, whether you're after a tiny trim or a full-on follicular reinvention, this retro-inspired style can be adapted to add instant edge and movement to any look.
With expert insight from leading hairstylist, trend forecaster and Cosmopolitan contributing expert Tom Smith, we're unpacking everything there is to know about the shag haircut: what it is, who it suits and exactly how to style it. Plus, we've rounded up 14 of the best shag haircuts to inspire your next salon appointment – and they're ones that'll make you want to book an appointment yesterday... Keep up!
Because let's face it, everyone loves a good ol' shag...
What is the shag haircut?
As mentioned, the shag first originated during the height of 70s rock 'n' roll with Mick Jagger at the forefront of the trend.
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Defined by its layers, Tom says that "the shortest part of the cut sits in the fringe area, either as a full choppy fringe or more of a sweepy face framing shape, then flows forward, getting gradually longer to the nape of the neck."
"The hair is designed to be worn forwards onto the face, and the numerous layers softly frame the face," Tom adds.
Best face shapes and hair types for the shag
While it may be a daring hairstyle, the shag is a versatile cut, suiting a number of different face shapes. "The curved and softly rounded nature of the shag haircut makes it ideal to balance those with squarer or more angular faces, and the forward framing layers can really help to shorten a longer face," Tom explains.
That said, Tom does advise that those with round or wide faces may prefer to avoid the full fringe classic shag; "Instead, opt for layers that start longer than the widest part of the face."
Length-wise, because the shag is defined by its texture and layers, how long you want those strands to sit is up to you. Go longer like Miley Cyrus or shorter like Jenna Ortega – there are no rules!
This versatility works the same for hair type. "Curls can also work really well for more voluminous interpretations," Tom adds. If you have flat or straight hair, the shag can work for you, but it will likely need more styling because of its need for texture. So, do proceed with caution when it comes to snipping off your locks!
How to style the shag
Brave enough for the shag? (A sentence I never thought I'd be writing...) Well, Tom says rough drying your hair without care for any parting is a good place to start. "Then add definition to the mids and ends with a styling product choice or hot tools as desired."
On wavy and curly hair, the shag can be incredibly low maintenance; however, very flat or very tight hair will need a little more styling to achieve a fully realised 'shag' shape. Enter: Volumising hair products. Bonus points if you go to sleep wearing your hair in plaits – you'll wake up to movement galore and therefore, reduce styling time.
On medium textures, Tom recommends using the diffuser attachment on your hairdryer for maximum volume and texture. "Finer hair can benefit from mousses or styling gels, while coarser, drier or curlier hair can use styling creams or balms to add definition," he adds.
To finish the look, Tom says that "a shag will likely benefit more from texture sprays than serums or oils." Ultimately, more body rather than more sleekness is ideal here!
Shag haircut inspo
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Lia Mappoura (she/her) is the Beauty Writer at Cosmopolitan UK, with over four years of experience reporting across the brand's print, social, video and digital platforms. Lia covers everything from emerging trend analysis to viral celebrity hair and makeup moments, making her an expert at spotting the season’s next big beauty look (before it takes over social media feeds).
In 2025, she was named The Rising Media Star at the Love Perfume Awards with The Perfume Shop, recognised for her outstanding digital fragrance content and for building genuine authority within the space. She is passionate about challenging outdated beauty stereotypes, championing inclusive representation in beauty, and educating readers on the trends, products and conversations shaping the industry today. Follow her on Instagram or find her on LinkedIn.
