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Sure, it doesn’t have your initials embroidered in it like a monogrammed Madewell tote, but a haircut can be super intimate. So much so, that I feel obliged to steer my oval-headed comrades in the right direction with inspo. Thankfully, hairstyles for oval faces are actually among the most versatile. And with a set of expertly-held shears, you can customize the cut to flatter your face shape and fit your unique, personal style.
According to Hairstylist Jessica Shakir, “the oval face shape is considered the most versatile because of its symmetry and balance.” Her only caveats are to avoid long hairstyles with no layers since it can add length to your face’s already well-balanced shape. For instance, one of her favorite looks is long layers with side-swept bangs. “One of the tricks that I’ve found works best for bangs is to use a mini straightening iron to create your desired shape. It gives you more control and it’s just a safer way to get close to the scalp if need be,” she says.
You’ll just want to be sure you’re not sacrificing quality when looking for a mini hot tool. Shakir’s go-tos are the NuMe Jet Setter Pro Mini Tools ($139) because they use the same technology as the professional size ones. Plus, it’s ideal for traveling or just keeping at your work desk for those just-because happy hours. And if you’re truly committed to this ‘do, you’ll need a great hairspray to set this style while keeping the bangs looking soft. Shakir recommends the Flex Hairspray by Living Proof ($26). “It’s a medium hold hairspray that is re-workable and brushable, it’s as if it has a memory to it,” she says.
At the end of the day, the sky’s really the limit. From blunt bangs to pretty layers, here are 31 celebrity-approved ways to go beyond the basic.
A loose updo with tendrils for a lowkey night out.
When all else fails, slick your hair back into a bun and throw on a cute headband.
Big, luscious, Old Hollywood-inspired curls.
Take a ponytail from basic to stunning with an exaggerated flip on the ends.
Straight back cornrows for the culture.
A soft and smooth pixie for bringing out those cheekbones.
French braids that let the face shine.
A classic lob with throwback-style volume.
Oval faces and big chops go together like peanut butter and jelly.
The half-up, half-down classic is always a style winner.
A tousled ponytail with face-framing strands feel ultra-romantic.
A curly fro just below the ears look fab.
A low side bun with loose strands is Dutchess-approved.
The TWA (teeny weeny afro) is here to stay.
Leave it to Lupita to show us the understated brilliance of a braided updo.
Love the flip-out action at the bottom of this classic bob style.
A classic pixie, but make it cool-girl-approved.
What isn’t there to love about a slicked-back low ponytail with extra inches?
We love that bantu knots are low maintenance in terms of actual styling, but still have an upscale appeal.
You can never go wrong with box braids.
Classic shoulder-length waves for when you want to channel your inner royal.
Nothing chicer than a bob with wavy texture.
When you’ve got multiple layers, the longer the style, the better.
A simple low bun is classic style done right.
A towering top knot will always make a statement.
There’s something so effortlessly romantic about milkmaid braids.
A braided bob is something I officially need to try.
One long braid for the win.
A slick straight bob with new color if you’re game.
A wispy bob with bangs and a few layers will do wonders for fine hair.
A side-swept mermaid braid–how adorable!
It takes a true badass to pull off this waist-length high ponytail braid.
We’re getting Scarface vibes from this retro bob with bangs.
The beehive updo is a throwback look everyone should try.
When it comes to a lob for oval faces, the more texture, the better.
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