If you’ve ever wanted to subtly switch up your look without a dramatic chop, face-framing haircuts and styles might be exactly what you’re looking for. These cuts are all about enhancing your natural features by drawing attention to the areas you love most—whether that’s your eyes, cheekbones, or jawline. A few strategic layers, soft bangs, or a fresh shape around your face can make a big difference in how your hair complements your face shape.
Face-framing styles have a magical way of giving your overall look a lift. They can soften harsh lines, create movement, and even make you look more youthful by subtly highlighting and lifting your features. Whether your hair is long, short, curly, or straight, there’s a face-framing style out there that can work for you. Here are nine to consider if you’re ready to freshen things up.
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1. Long Layers with Curtain Bangs
This style, which is a Cindy Crawford iconic favorite, is a go-to for anyone who wants to add softness and movement without losing length. Long layers help lift the hair and prevent it from looking weighed down, while curtain bangs gently frame the face, drawing attention to your eyes and cheekbones. The center part and wispy fringe create a flattering, balanced look that feels both modern and effortlessly chic.
2. Lob with Waves
A lob is a collarbone-length bob and the addition of soft waves make it looks polished but never overdone. The length is long enough to feel versatile yet short enough to give your hair some bounce and shape. Adding loose waves brings volume and dimension, which can help soften fine lines and give your overall look a relaxed, youthful vibe.
3. Bob with Side Part
A classic bob becomes more face-framing and fresh when paired with a side part. Shifting the part to one side helps create asymmetry that draws the eye upward, naturally lifting your features. The sleek, chin- or jaw-length shape illuminates your profile and can make your face look more structured, while still being playful and modern.
4. Textured Shag
The textured shag is all about movement and personality. With choppy layers throughout and tons of volume at the crown, this cut brings a slightly undone, rock-and-roll feel that’s super flattering and fun. The shorter layers around the face give the illusion of lifted cheekbones and a more sculpted jawline.
5. Face-Framing Highlights
Sometimes you don’t need a new cut—you just need the right hair color. Face-framing highlights brighten up your features by placing lighter tones around your face. These fun pops of color reflect light, making your complexion appear more radiant and drawing attention to your eyes and smile.
6. Layered Pixie
A layered pixie cut is bold, chic, and full of youthful charm. The layering adds softness and volume, avoiding that overly sharp or severe look that some short cuts can have. It also opens up the face beautifully, putting the spotlight on your eyes, brows, and cheekbones.
7. Side-Swept Bangs
Side-swept bangs are a fun way to frame the face and instantly soften your overall look. By angling across the forehead, they create a diagonal line that lifts the eye and looks flattering. They’re a great option if you’re not ready for a full fringe but want something fresh and flattering.
8. Shoulder Length with Feathered Ends
A shoulder-length cut with feathered ends is a perfect blend of sophistication and playfulness. Feathered ends add softness and movement, giving the illusion of fuller, healthier hair. This light, airy finish around the face can make your features appear more delicate and lifted, too.
9. Bob with Curled Under Layers
A bob with curled-under layers is sleek, polished, and incredibly flattering. By curling the ends inward with a big brush and blowdryer, the cut cradles the jawline and neck, which helps define your facial contours. This classic styling trick adds a bit of volume and creates a smooth, put-together appearance that still feels fresh.
