Finding the perfect hairstyle is comparable to art. The ability to choose the right hairstyle is incredibly important for every woman, as it can dramatically impact her overall appearance, confidence, and self-esteem. A well-chosen hairstyle not only complements your unique face shape, facial features, hair type and color but also can have a great positive impact on your personal style, lifestyle, and even age perception. When you can skillfully select a hairstyle that truly flatters you, you feel empowered and beautiful, both inside and out. Moreover, the perfect hairstyle can boost your confidence, allowing you to shine in social and professional situations, and helps you express your personality and individuality. So, mastering the art of choosing the right hairstyle is truly a transformative and rewarding journey.
In this article, we will guide you on how to choose the perfect hairstyle based on various factors. Whether you’re considering a new haircut or simply looking to switch up your style, we’ve got you covered. This article is divided into four parts, each focusing on different factors that will help you make the best decision.
This is the first part of the series, check out the other parts via the links below:
- Part 1. Face Shape, Facial Features, Hair Type (you’re here)
- Part 2. Hair Length, Hair Color, Hair Health
- Part 3. Age, Lifestyle, Personal Style
- Part 4. Climate, Maintenance and Budget
In this part we’ll look at how your face shape and facial features can help you pick a style that makes you shine. Learn about hair types and density and how they affect your hairstyle choices. The second part will be devoted to hair length, color, and health condition and how they play a role in your overall look.
In the third part we’ll talk about how your personal style and age can influence your choices of hairstyles. We’ll explore hairstyles that fit different lifestyles, whether you’re a busy mom, a career-driven woman, or someone who loves to travel.
In the last part of the series we’ll cover how climate, maintenance, and budget can influence hairstyle selection – we’ve got tips and hints to help you make smart choices that work best for you.
Join us in this fun and informative series about hairstyles for women of all ages and backgrounds. You’ll get the knowledge and confidence to choose a hairstyle that makes you look and feel fantastic. So let’s get started on this exciting journey!
In this article:
- What do you need to consider to choose the right hairstyle
- Face shape
- Facial features
- Hair type
- Hair density
What do you need to consider to choose the right hairstyle
Hair styling professionals consider the following factors when choosing the right hairstyle for a woman:
- Face shape: Different hairstyles complement different face shapes. For example, a round face might benefit from long layers, while an oval face might suit a variety of styles.
- Facial features: Highlighting or downplaying specific facial features (such as a prominent nose, high forehead, or strong jawline) can be achieved through strategic haircut choices.
- Hair type: The texture, thickness, and natural curl or wave of the hair can influence the suitability of certain hairstyles. For example, fine hair may need extra volume and layers, while curly hair may require specific cuts to avoid frizz.
- Hair length: The desired length of the hair will dictate the type of styles that can be achieved. Short, medium, and long hair each have unique style possibilities.
- Hair color: The chosen hairstyle should complement your hair color, whether it’s your natural shade or a dyed hue.
- Hair health: Damaged or thinning hair might require specific cuts or treatments to improve its appearance and health.
- Age: As women age, hair texture and density can change, so it’s important to choose a hairstyle that is age-appropriate and flattering.
- Personal style: The individual’s fashion sense, clothing choices, and preferred aesthetic will influence the selection of a hairstyle that best complements your overall look.
- Lifestyle: Your daily routine, occupation, and hobbies can impact your choice of hairstyle. For instance, if you engage in sports or have a physically demanding job you may prefer a low-maintenance, practical hairstyle.
- Climate: The local climate can affect hair, so choose a style that works well with the humidity, dryness, or other environmental factors in the region.
- Maintenance: Some hairstyles require more frequent salon visits and daily styling efforts than others. Consider your willingness and ability to maintain a specific hairstyle.
- Budget: Some hairstyles require more frequent salon visits or expensive treatments, so it’s essential to choose a style that aligns with your financial situation.
In the first part of our series we’ll focus on some of the most important factors for choosing the perfect hairstyle: face shape, facial features, hair type, and density. These factors play a big role in how a hairstyle looks on you and can make all the difference in finding a style that truly flatters your unique beauty.
Your face shape is key because it helps you find hairstyles that bring out your best features and create balance. Understanding your facial features – like your eyes, nose, and lips – can also guide you in choosing a hairstyle that highlights your favorite aspects and complements your overall look.
Hair type and density are essential too. Knowing your hair type will help you pick a style that’s easy to manage and looks great. Your hair’s density, or how thick it is, also affects how different styles appear and how well they hold up throughout the day.
In this part of the series, we’ll dive into these crucial factors and help you unlock the secrets to choosing a hairstyle that makes you look and feel amazing. So without further ado let’s get ready to learn and have fun as we explore the art of choosing the right hairstyle!
Face shape
Let’s start by talking about face shapes – one of the most important factors when it comes to choosing a hairstyle that really flatters you. Generally, there are 8 distinctive face shapes: oval, round, square, rectangle, heart, triangle, inverted triangle and diamond. Understanding your face shape will help you pick a style that highlights your best features and creates a balanced look.
Let’s look at each face shape in detail.
Oval face shape
This face shape has balanced proportions, with a slightly longer length than width, a gently rounded jawline, and no sharp angles. You’re lucky if you have an oval face shape because is considered versatile and can usually pull off a variety of hairstyles.
With an oval face shape you want to avoid heavy bangs that can make the face appear shorter. Instead consider adding soft, side-swept bangs to create a bit of width and add interest to your face. Avoid too much volume on top, as it can elongate your face.
You can easily experiment with different styles, as oval faces are versatile, but consider your hair type and personal style when choosing a hairstyle. You may want to try a side part to add dimension and interest to your face or experiment with textured waves or curls to create a more voluminous look.
The most suitable hairstyles for faces with an oval shape include:
Round face shape
Round faces have a similar width and length, with full cheeks and a rounded jawline. The goal for hairstyles for round faces is often to create the illusion of length and minimize the appearance of fullness.
With a round face shape you want to add height and volume at the crown to elongate the face. Be sure to avoid hairstyles that end at the chin or add volume around your cheeks, as they can emphasize roundness. Instead opt for longer hairstyles or cuts that create an asymmetrical look.
Experiment with asymmetrical cuts to add angles and make your face appear less round. A good option is to incorporate long, face-framing layers to create the illusion of a more elongated face.
Good hairstyle choices for a round face shape are:
- Long, layered cuts
- Side-parted hairstyles
- Asymmetrical bobs
- Pixie cuts with volume on top
- Soft, side-swept bangs
Square face shape
Square faces are characterized by a strong jawline, wide forehead, and a similar width and length. Hairstyles for square faces typically aim to soften the angles and create a more elongated appearance.
With square face shape you want to soften angles with loose waves, curls, or rounded layers. Tend to frame the face with layers that start below the jawline. Try to avoid blunt or straight-across bangs that can emphasize the square shape. Instead opt for soft, loose waves to counteract the sharp angles of your face.
You can try to play with soft, wispy bangs to create a more delicate look or choose hairstyles that feature a deep side part to create an asymmetrical look.
If you have a square face shape, consider these hairstyle options:
- Soft, layered haircuts
- Side-swept bangs
- Long, face-framing layers
- Wavy or curly hairstyles
- A-line bobs
Rectangle (or Oblong) face shapes
This face shape is longer than it is wide, with a square jawline and a high forehead. Hairstyles for rectangular faces often focus on adding width and softening the angles to balance the face’s length.
With this type of face it’s better to choose hairstyles that add width to the sides of the face, such as soft waves or curls. Avoid excessive length or volume on top and long, straight styles without layers, as they can make your face look even longer. Consider bangs or face-framing layers to balance the forehead and jawline. Blunt, eyebrow-skimming bangs will create the illusion of a shorter face.
Recommended hairstyles for rectangle face shapes are:
- Shoulder-length cuts with layers
- Soft, side-swept bangs
- Long bobs (lobs) with volume
- Wavy or curly hairstyles
- Textured pixie cuts
Heart face shape
Heart-shaped faces have a broader forehead, prominent cheekbones, and a narrow, pointed chin. The goal for hairstyles for heart-shaped faces is often to add width at the jawline and balance the proportions.
To add volume at the jawline you can use chin-length cuts or curls. At the same time it’s better to avoid heavy, straight-across bangs that can emphasize the forehead. Opt for side-parted hairstyles to create balance. You can also consider shoulder-length cuts with subtle layers to create balance between your forehead and chin. A good idea is to add volume at the crown to elongate your face and create a more balanced appearance.
Your best hairstyle options with this type of face are:
- Long, face-framing layers
- Chin-length bobs
- Side-parted hairstyles
- Wispy bangs
- Low, textured updos
Triangle (or Pear) face shapes
Triangular faces have a narrow forehead and a wider, more prominent jawline. Hairstyles for triangular faces often focus on adding volume and width to the upper part of the face to balance the proportions.
With this type of face you want to add volume at the crown and sides of the face with layers or curls. Avoid hairstyles such as blunt cuts that end at the chin and very short, tight hairstyles, as they can make your jawline appear more prominent. Instead opt for side-swept bangs or face-framing layers to balance the forehead and jawline.
You can also experiment with waves or curls in your hair to add texture and create the illusion of a wider forehead. Side-swept or layered bangs will also support the effect.
Triangular face shapes tend to look best with these recommended hairstyles:
- Layered haircuts with volume at the crown
- Side-swept bangs
- Long bobs (lobs) with face-framing layers
- Pixie cuts with volume on top
- Half-up, half-down hairstyles
Inverted triangle face shape
Similar to heart-shaped faces, inverted triangle faces have a wide forehead and cheekbones, but the chin is less pointed. Hairstyles for inverted triangle faces often focus on adding volume and width to the lower part of the face.
If you have this type of face, try to avoid hairstyles that emphasize the forehead, such as updos with no volume at the sides. Consider adding soft, wispy bangs to minimize the appearance of a wide forehead. Another variant is to opt for side parts to create asymmetry and draw attention away from the width of your forehead. Avoid short, blunt bangs or high, tight updos, as they can make your forehead appear wider and emphasize the narrowness of your jawline. Try hairstyles with volume and width at the jawline, such as shoulder-length bobs or long, textured layers that frame the face.
For those with an inverted triangle face shape, we suggest the following hairstyles:
- Long, layered haircuts
- Shoulder-length bobs
- Soft curls or waves
- Side-parted hairstyles
- Hairstyles that add volume at the jawline
Diamond face shape
Diamond-shaped faces have prominent cheekbones, a narrow forehead, and a narrow, pointed chin. Hairstyles for diamond faces typically aim to minimize the cheekbone width and add fullness to the forehead and jawline.
If you have this type of face, opt for hairstyles that add width at the forehead and jawline, such as curtain bangs or chin-length bobs. Avoid styles that add volume at the cheekbones, as this can make the face appear narrower. Soft, side-parted hairstyles can create balance and soften angles. Consider hairstyles with volume at the nape of your neck to counterbalance the width of your cheekbones. Another variant is to opt for hairstyles with soft waves or curls to add width around your jawline and create balance. Try to avoid tight updos or slicked-back styles, as they can emphasize the width of your cheekbones.
The ideal hairstyles for diamond face shapes are:
- Long, face-framing layers
- Chin-length bobs
- Side-parted hairstyles
- Curtain bangs
- Low updos with volume
Facial features
Next up, we’ll delve into the world of facial features, which play a crucial role in finding a hairstyle that complements your unique beauty. Your eyes, nose, lips, and other features can really shine when you choose the right style. In this section, we’ll explore how to consider your facial features when selecting a hairstyle and provide tips on making them stand out in the best possible way. Get excited to learn how focusing on your features can lead to a stunning and personalized look!
Here is the list of main facial features you need to pay attention to for a good hairstyle choice and some recommendations for different types of them:
- Forehead: The width and height of your forehead can influence the type of bangs or the absence of bangs that will best suit your face.
- Large forehead: Choose hairstyles with bangs, side-swept bangs, or a deep side part to create balance and cover some of the forehead.
- Small forehead: Opt for hairstyles with no bangs, a middle part, or swept-back styles to open up the forehead area.
- Eyebrows: The shape, thickness, and prominence of your eyebrows can affect how hairstyles frame your face and whether you want to emphasize or soften their appearance.
- Thick, prominent eyebrows: Select hairstyles that help frame your face, such as a side part or soft waves, to balance your strong brows.
- Thin, subtle eyebrows: Opt for hairstyles with bangs or those that create volume around the forehead to draw attention away from your brows.
- Eyes: The size, shape, and position of your eyes can play a role in how certain hairstyles draw attention to or away from your eyes.
- Large eyes: Choose hairstyles with soft waves, side-swept bangs, or layers that frame your face, accentuating your eyes.
- Small eyes: Opt for hairstyles that lift the hair away from the face, such as a high ponytail, updo, or voluminous styles, to create the illusion of larger eyes.
- Nose: The size, shape, and length of your nose can affect which hairstyles create balance and harmony within your face.
- Long or prominent nose: Choose hairstyles with volume and width, such as loose waves or a full, side-swept bangs, to balance your nose.
- Small or subtle nose: Opt for sleek, straight hairstyles or a middle part to draw attention to the center of your face.
- Cheekbones: Prominent or subtle cheekbones can influence how hairstyles accentuate or soften the angles of your face.
- Prominent cheekbones: Choose hairstyles that soften the angles, such as soft waves or curls, or those that add width at the jawline, like a bob or lob.
- Subtle cheekbones: Opt for hairstyles with volume and height around the crown or cheekbones, such as a bouffant, a half-up style, or layers that frame the face.
- Jawline and chin: The shape and definition of your jawline and chin can help determine which hairstyles best complement your facial structure.
- Ears: The size and shape of your ears may influence whether you want to cover or expose them with your chosen hairstyle.
- Large or prominent ears: Opt for hairstyles that cover or partially cover your ears, such as a lob, long layers, or side-swept bangs.
- Small or subtle ears: Choose hairstyles that expose your ears, such as a pixie cut, tucked-back styles, or updos.
- Neck length and width: The length and width of your neck can affect how certain hairstyles create balance and proportion within your overall appearance.
To make better decisions you can start with studying your face shape. Analyzing your face is crucial for choosing a hairstyle that suits your facial features. This can help you identify styles that accentuate your best features and create balance.
Focus on your best features: when choosing a hairstyle try to pick one that highlights your favorite facial features and hides weak ones. Remember that balance is key. Aim for a hairstyle that creates balance and harmony among your facial features, enhancing your overall appearance.
Don’t forget about hair type. Keep in mind your hair type, texture, and density when selecting a hairstyle that complements your facial features. We’ll take a closer look at this subject in just a moment.
Next, consider your overall appearance. Think about how your hairstyle will work with your wardrobe, makeup, and accessories to create a cohesive and flattering look. Consider how versatile a hairstyle is and whether it can be easily modified to suit different occasions, moods, or preferences. For this you can use visuals: collect images of hairstyles you like and try to find examples of people and celebrities with similar facial features. This can help you visualize how a particular style might look on you.
To further enhance the chosen style you can learn basic styling techniques. Mastering a few simple hairstyling techniques, such as braiding or creating updos, can allow you to modify your hairstyle. Remember that you can always make small adjustments to a hairstyle, such as adding layers, changing the part, or incorporating bangs, to better suit your facial features and preferences. To evaluate these changes and adjustments you can take photos. When trying something new, take photos from different angles to see how the new style complements your facial features. This can help you make more informed decisions about future hairstyle choices.
As you age or undergo changes in your appearance, be open to adjusting your hairstyle to best suit your evolving facial features. Experiment with different styles. Don’t be afraid to try new hairstyles or to switch up your look. Sometimes, it takes a bit of experimentation to find the perfect style for your unique features, but be patient with change. If you’re trying a new hairstyle, allow yourself time to adapt and become comfortable with the change. It can take time to determine if a particular style works well with your facial features.
The last, but not the least is to choose a skilled hairstylist. Work with a hairstylist who has experience with your hair type and can provide expert advice based on your facial features, hair type, and personal preferences. When discussing your hairstyle with a hairstylist, be open about your preferences and concerns related to your facial features. This will help them provide the best recommendations for your unique needs.
Hair type
Now it’s time to dive into the world of hair types and densities, which are key factors in finding a hairstyle that not only looks great but is also easy to manage. From straight to coily, and fine to thick, understanding your hair’s unique characteristics will help you make informed choices about the best styles for you. In this section, we’ll explore the various hair types and densities, and share tips on how to choose a flattering and practical hairstyle that embraces your hair’s natural beauty.
Generally, hair types are divided into 4 big groups:
- Straight hair
- Wavy hair
- Curly hair
- Coily or Kinky hair
In addition to texture, hair density (the number of hair strands per square inch on the scalp) also plays a role in determining hair type. Hair density can be categorized as:
- Thin or low-density hair: Fewer hair strands, with more visible scalp and less volume.
- Medium-density hair: A balanced amount of hair strands and volume, with less visible scalp.
- Thick or high-density hair: Numerous hair strands, with a full appearance and more volume.
Now let’s go through each hair type individually.
Straight hair
Straight hair, often considered low maintenance and easy to style, can become oily more quickly due to the hair’s natural oils traveling easily down the hair shaft. When it comes to density, thin, straight hair may require styles that add volume, while thick, straight hair may benefit from layers to reduce weight and add movement.
For this type of hair you would like to use a clarifying shampoo to prevent product buildup and maintain volume. Try to opt for lightweight styling products to avoid weighing down the hair. Use a heat protectant when using heat styling tools to minimize damage.
Straight hair is divided into three groups. Based on this there are different recommendations regarding hair styling:
- 1A: Very fine, thin, and soft, with no natural wave or curl. Add volume with layers, avoid heavy or blunt cuts
- 1B: Medium-textured, with more volume than 1A. Opt for long layers, consider side-swept bangs
- 1C: Coarse and thick, with a slight natural wave. Choose longer hairstyles, incorporate long layers or texturizing
Wavy hair
Wavy hair is an interesting mix of straight and curly hair characteristics, often prone to frizz, especially in humid conditions. Density plays a role in selecting the right style for wavy hair as well. Fine, wavy hair may need layers and lighter products to enhance natural wave patterns, while thick, wavy hair may require additional layers and products that control frizz.
For this type of hair you would like to choose sulfate-free shampoos to prevent stripping the hair of natural oils. Use a leave-in conditioner or hair oil to control frizz and add shine. Experiment with different styling techniques, such as scrunching or using a diffuser, to enhance natural wave patterns.
Wavy hair is divided into three groups too and of course there are different recommendations for each group too:
- 2A: Fine, thin, and loose waves, with a gentle “S” shape. Enhance natural waves with layered cuts, avoid heavy products
- 2B: Medium-textured, with more defined waves. Choose long layers, avoid blunt cuts that can weigh down waves
- 2C: Thick, coarse, and prone to frizz, with tighter waves. Opt for layers that start at the chin, consider hairstyles that control frizz
Curly hair
Curly hair, with its beautiful spirals, can be more prone to dryness, as natural oils have a harder time traveling down the hair shaft. To maintain curl definition and prevent frizz, it requires moisture and proper care. Density considerations come into play here, too: Thin, curly hair may require styles that enhance the curl pattern and add volume, while thick, curly hair may benefit from layers that remove weight and add shape.
If you have this type of hair we recommend deep conditioning it regularly to maintain moisture and prevent frizz. Use a wide-tooth comb or fingers to detangle gently, starting from the ends and working up to the roots. Apply styling products to damp hair to help define curls and reduce frizz.
Curly hair is divided into three groups as well which have their own recommendations:
- 3A: Loose, large curls, with a well-defined “S” shape. Choose long layers, avoid excessive length that can weigh down curls
- 3B: Medium, springy curls with more volume. Opt for layers that enhance natural curl pattern, consider shorter cuts to reduce weight
- 3C: Tight, corkscrew curls with a smaller diameter. Choose hairstyles that control volume, incorporate layers for shape
Coily hair
Coily or kinky hair, the most fragile hair type, is prone to breakage and requires gentle handling. It retains less moisture than other hair types, making hydration and proper care essential. Density is a key factor for this hair type as well. Thin, coily hair may need protective styles to prevent breakage, while thick, coily hair may require additional layers and protective styles to manage volume and retain moisture.
With this type of hair you will need to keep the hair moisturized by using a leave-in conditioner, hair oils, or a moisturizing cream. Detangle it gently with a wide-tooth comb or fingers, preferably while the hair is damp and coated with a conditioner. Trim the ends regularly to prevent split ends and promote healthy hair growth.
Coily hair, as well as the others, is divided into three groups with corresponding recommendations:
- 4A: Soft, tightly coiled curls with a small, defined “S” or “Z” pattern. Opt for protective hairstyles, choose layered cuts to enhance natural curl pattern
- 4B: Coarse, wiry texture with a zigzag pattern and less defined curls. Consider short to medium cuts, opt for protective hairstyles
- 4C: Very tightly coiled or kinky, with little to no curl definition and a high degree of shrinkage. Choose protective hairstyles, avoid excessive tension on hair
“Protective hairstyles” are the hair’s best friend when it comes to guarding against damage, breakage, and environmental factors. These styles minimize manipulation, reduce tension on the hair shaft, and shield the ends. They’re especially beneficial for fragile hair types, such as coily or kinky hair. Some popular protective hairstyles include braids, twists, updos, buns, and wearing a silk or satin scarf or bonnet to protect the hair while sleeping.
Hair density
Hair density plays a crucial role in choosing the right hairstyle.
For those with thin or low-density hair, opt for layered hairstyles that create the illusion of volume and shorter cuts to prevent hair from looking weighed down. Using volumizing shampoos and conditioners, lightweight styling products, such as mousses and volumizing sprays, will enhance the fullness of your hair. Opt for heatless styling techniques, like rollers or braids, to minimize damage and breakage. At the same time avoid heavy, blunt cuts that can make hair appear thinner.
Medium-density hair offers versatility, so feel free to experiment with various hairstyles, incorporating layers or texture for movement and volume. Maintaining a healthy balance of moisture and protein in the hair to promote strength and manageability. Experimenting with different styling techniques, and getting regular trims will keep your hair in great shape and prevent split ends.
For thick or high-density hair, layers can help remove weight and add movement. Control volume and shape with appropriate hairstyles and avoid excessive thinning. Use moisturizing shampoos and conditioners for hydration and manageability. Apply a heat protectant when using heat styling tools to prevent damage and breakage. Opt for regular trims to maintain shape and reduce the appearance of frizz.
At this point you should have a good grasp of the most important factors for choosing the perfect hairstyle.
If you enjoyed reading this article and found the tips and recommendations helpful, we would love to hear from you! Don’t be shy to leave us a comment below and let us know your thoughts. We are always happy to receive feedback and suggestions for future topics. Thank you for taking the time to read our article, and we hope to see you again soon!
This is the first part of the series, check out the other parts via the links below:
- Part 1. Face Shape, Facial Features, Hair Type (you’re here)
- Part 2. Hair Length, Hair Color, Hair Health
- Part 3. Age, Lifestyle, Personal Style
- Part 4. Climate, Maintenance and Budget