Finding the right hairstyle is often a journey of understanding geometry and proportions. For those with a long face shape—often characterized by a forehead, cheekbones, and jawline of similar width, and a face length that is significantly longer than the width—the primary goal is to create the illusion of width while visually shortening the length.
The “oblong” or “long” face shape is elegant and statuesque, but the wrong haircut can sometimes make the face look stretched or tired. By strategically placing volume, bangs, and layers, you can accentuate your best features and bring a sense of harmony to your overall look. Here are 12 expertly curated hairstyles designed specifically to provide that perfect balance.
1. Curtain Bangs
Curtain bangs are perhaps the most versatile tool in a stylist’s arsenal for balancing a long face. Unlike blunt bangs, which can sometimes feel too heavy, curtain bangs part in the middle and sweep out toward the ears. This movement draws the eye horizontally across the face rather than vertically down it.
By ending the bangs right at the cheekbones, you create a focal point that widens the mid-section of the face. This effectively “breaks up” the length of the forehead and the jawline, making the face appear more oval and proportional. They are low-maintenance and grow out beautifully into face-framing layers.
2. Side-Swept Bangs
If you want to shorten the appearance of your face without committing to a full fringe, side-swept bangs are the answer. By covering a diagonal portion of the forehead, these bangs disrupt the vertical line of the face.
The asymmetry of a side sweep is key; it prevents the eye from traveling straight up and down. This style works best when the bangs are thick enough to hide the hairline, effectively “lowering” the top of the face and creating a more compact look.
3. Volume Curls
Length can often weigh hair down, making a long face look even longer. To counter this, horizontal volume is essential. Large, bouncy curls that start around the ear level add much-needed width to the sides of the head.
Avoid curls that are tight and vertical; instead, opt for “barrel” curls that sit away from the face. This creates a rounded silhouette that softens a sharp jawline and fills out the space around the cheeks, providing an instant lifting effect.
4. Choppy Bob
A chin-length bob is one of the most flattering lengths for a long face because it creates a clear horizontal boundary at the jawline. By choosing a “choppy” or textured version, you avoid a flat, pin-straight look that might elongate the face further.
The layers in a choppy bob add movement and bulk to the sides. When the hair ends exactly at the chin or slightly above it, it frames the lower half of the face, making the neck look elegant while rounding out the facial structure.
5. Layered Lob
The “Lob” (long bob) is a classic choice, but for long faces, it must be layered. A blunt lob can sometimes act like a frame that points downward, emphasizing length. However, adding internal layers—layers cut inside the hair rather than just on the surface—creates volume and body.
This style should ideally hit just at the collarbone. The layers ensure that the hair doesn’t hang flat against the cheeks, providing a gentle “swell” of hair that adds width to the facial profile.
6. Side Part
While middle parts are currently on-trend, they can be difficult for long face shapes as they draw a straight line down the center of the face. A deep side part is a fantastic alternative. It shifts the volume to one side, creating an asymmetrical look that breaks up the facial length.
By tucking one side behind the ear and letting the other side flow freely, you reveal the cheekbone on one side while adding width on the other. This creates a dynamic, balanced look that is both sophisticated and corrective.
7. Face-Framing Layers
If you aren’t ready to sacrifice your long locks, face-framing layers are a must. These are shorter pieces cut around the front of the face that usually start at the chin or jawline.
Without these layers, long hair acts as two vertical pillars that elongate the face. Face-framing layers “step” the hair down, creating a series of horizontal points that draw the eye inward and outward rather than just downward. This softens the transition from the face to the hair.
8. Shag Haircut
The modern shag is a godsend for oblong faces. It is characterized by heavy layering at the crown and a full fringe. The volume at the top and the “fuzziness” of the layers on the sides create a rounded, voluminous halo around the head.
The shag works by filling in the “negative space” around the neck and jaw. Because it is naturally messy and textured, it provides a lot of visual interest that distracts from the length of the face, focusing instead on the eyes and cheekbones.
9. Textured Pixie
Short hair can be intimidating for those with long faces, but the textured pixie proves it can work beautifully. The key is to avoid height on the very top of the head, which would add even more length. Instead, focus on texture and volume at the sides.
A pixie with a side-swept fringe or piecey layers that kick out toward the ears creates a wider silhouette. This style highlights the eyes and brings the focus upward, away from the chin and jaw.
10. Blunt Bangs
Blunt bangs are the most direct way to “shorten” a face. By physically covering the forehead, they effectively cut the visible length of the face by a third. This creates an immediate shift in proportion, making the face look more compact.
To make this work, ensure the bangs are wide—extending slightly past the outer corners of the eyes. This wideness helps to broaden the appearance of the upper face, balancing out a narrower jawline.
11. Beach Waves
Beach waves are the ultimate “widening” style. The “S” shape of the wave creates constant horizontal movement. Unlike straight hair, which pulls the eye down, waves keep the eye moving across the hair.
For long faces, start the waves at eye level rather than at the roots. This creates a “burst” of volume right in the middle of the face, which is the most effective place to add width. Using a salt spray or texturizing mist can help maintain this volume throughout the day.
12. Half-Up Top Knot
While a full high ponytail can sometimes elongate a face too much, the half-up top knot is a great middle ground. The “up” portion provides a focal point, while the “down” portion—especially if styled with waves—provides the width needed to balance the face.
The key to this look is to leave plenty of hair down around the ears and face. Do not pull the sides too tight; instead, let them remain soft and voluminous. This creates a diamond-like shape that is incredibly flattering for oblong structures.
Styling Tips for Long Faces
To keep your chosen hairstyle looking its best and maintaining that perfect balance, consider these professional tips:
- Avoid Flat Hair: Use volumizing mousses or root-lifting sprays to prevent the hair from lying flat against the scalp, which can emphasize length.
- Embrace Texture: Smooth, sleek, pin-straight hair is the most challenging for long faces. Use texturizing products to add “grit” and body.
- Mind the Length: Generally, hair that is extremely long (past the waist) will pull the face down. Aim for lengths between the chin and the mid-back for the best proportions.
- Focus on the Middle: When styling, try to concentrate the most volume and “action” (curls, layers, or texture) between the eyebrows and the chin.
- The Power of Accessories: Wearing wide headbands or statement earrings can also help add horizontal interest to your look.
