TL;DR:
Women with oval face shapes have the most versatile canvas for hairstyles. From chic pixie cuts and timeless bobs to layered shags, lobs, and long mermaid waves, the balanced proportions of an oval face allow experimentation with virtually any style. The right cut enhances natural harmony and highlights key features.
- Oval faces are balanced, versatile, and flattering for most hairstyles.
- Short styles: pixie cuts, sleek bobs, and asymmetrical cuts accentuate bone structure.
- Medium styles: lobs, layered shags, and curtain bangs offer chic adaptability.
- Long styles: face-framing layers, voluminous curls, and mermaid waves enhance elegance.
- Experimenting with texture always works.
Why your oval face is a hairstylist's dream
Sometimes, the best place to start when choosing a hairstyle is your own face. If you have an oval-shaped one, you’re in luck. Known as the most balanced and versatile face shape, oval faces can pull off a wide variety of hairstyles. From sleek pixie cuts to flowing waves, the options are practically endless.
If you’ve been on the hunt for the best hairstyle for oval-face women, these ideas are your go-to for inspiration. (Note: the best hairstyles for oval faced men and nonbinary people follow the same principles!) With a little guidance, you’ll be ready to enhance your features and find a style that suits your vibe.
Why oval shaped face hairstyles for females are versatile
Oval faces are the “gold standard” of face shapes, which is understandable. Their balanced proportions and gentle curves offer a natural symmetry.
What makes this shape so adaptable? Its proportions work seamlessly with a variety of cuts, from short to long. Plus, experimenting with textures—whether sleek and straight or bouncy and voluminous—is practically foolproof.
How to identify if you have an oval face shape
Wondering if your face shape is oval? Here are a few key traits to look for:
– Balanced proportions: The length of your face is about 1.5 times its width.
– Soft jawline: Unlike square or heart-shaped faces, an oval face has a gently rounded jaw.
– Forehead and jaw harmony: Your forehead is slightly wider than your jawline but not drastically so.
– Chin shape: The chin is soft and neither overly pointed nor square.
To check, stand in front of a mirror and trace your face shape with a washable marker (or even lipstick). If the outline looks slightly elongated with no sharp angles, chances are you’ve got an oval face shape!
Need to dive a little deeper into face shapes? Here’s how to determine yours.
Classic short hairstyles for oval faces
If you’re considering going short, your oval face shape is the perfect canvas for some of the most iconic and versatile cuts. Short hairstyles are not only trendy but also effortless to style, making them ideal for busy days when you still want to look polished. From edgy pixie cuts to sleek bobs, the possibilities are endless.
Pixie cuts are chic and easy
Pixie cuts are a match made in heaven for oval face shape hairstyles. Their cropped length draws attention to your cheekbones and jawline, creating a sculpted and confident look. For an ultra-modern vibe, consider a slightly longer pixie with side-swept bangs to add texture and frame your forehead.
Styling tip: Use a lightweight texturizing spray to create movement and avoid the look feeling too flat. Pixies can be styled sleek for a polished appearance or tousled for a more casual, playful vibe.
Sleek bobs are timeless and sophisticated
The bob is a classic for a reason. Its sharp lines and clean edges accentuate the natural symmetry of an oval face shape. Whether you choose a chin-length bob or a longer “lob” style, this cut works wonders for framing the face.
Styling tip: To maximize the sleekness, use a flat iron to achieve a super-straight finish and a shine serum for a polished look. Prefer something softer? Add loose waves with a curling wand for a romantic, relaxed style.
Asymmetrical cuts are bold and unique
Looking for something a little edgier? Asymmetrical cuts bring a modern twist to short hairstyles and can give your oval face shape an unexpected flair. These styles are slightly longer on one side, creating a cool, angled effect that draws the eye and adds interest.
Styling tip: Keep the longer side sharp and defined for maximum impact, or soften the look with layers. Adding a deep side part enhances the asymmetry and highlights your bone structure even further.
Finding your perfect short style
Short hairstyles for oval face shapes let you experiment with bold and creative looks while keeping things low-maintenance. Whether you’re going for chic and sleek or fun and flirty, these cuts ensure your face shape stays the star of the show. For even more customization, chat with your stylist about adding layers or playing with fringe to match your personality.
Medium-length hairstyles that flatter
With medium-length hairstyles, your oval face shape truly shines. These versatile cuts strike the perfect balance. Whether you love layers, blunt cuts, or texture, medium styles can enhance your natural symmetry while giving you room to play. Here are some of the best mid-length hairstyles for oval face women.
A lob with soft waves is effortlessly elegant
The lob, or long bob, is a timeless favorite that flatters just about everyone, but it’s especially striking on an oval face. Soft waves add movement and texture to this shoulder-grazing style, giving you an effortlessly chic look. The lob is also incredibly versatile—you can wear it sleek and straight for a polished finish or tousled for a casual, beachy vibe.
Celebrity inspiration: Think Jessica Alba or Lily Collins, who’ve both rocked face-framing lobs.
Styling tip: Use a large-barrel curling wand to create loose, flowing waves. Finish with a texturizing spray for that “I woke up like this” feel.
Layered shags are cool and modern
If you’re craving a little edge, a layered shag is the way to go. This cut is all about layers, volume, and texture. This makes it perfect for highlighting the cheekbones and jawline of an oval face. Plus, it’s a low-maintenance option that looks fantastic even as it grows out.
Celebrity inspiration: Zendaya’s layered shag is a masterclass in playful sophistication.
Styling tip: Embrace your natural texture or use a diffuser to enhance waves and curls. For straight hair, apply a lightweight mousse to create body and volume without weighing it down.
Straight cuts with curtain bangs are soft and trendy
Curtain bangs paired with a medium-length cut are an instant style upgrade. This combination softens your look while drawing attention to the eyes and cheekbones, making it one of the best hairstyle for oval face women. The length of the cut ensures versatility, while the bangs add an element of intrigue and elegance.
Celebrity inspiration: Dakota Johnson is the ultimate example of an elevated bang.
Styling tip: Blow-dry your curtain bangs with a round brush for a smooth, face-framing effect. Pair this with a sleek flat-iron finish for a polished look or soft waves for something more relaxed.
Why medium-length works so well for oval faces
Medium styles offer just enough length to experiment with layering, texturing, and accessorizing. Whether you’re going for trendy or timeless, these styles are easy to maintain and endlessly adaptable.
Long hairstyles for elegance and drama
Long hairstyles exude a sense of sophistication and glamour. The added length creates endless opportunities for styling, from cascading curls to sleek, straight locks. The natural balance of an oval face shape means you can customize your hair to perfectly complement your features.
Face-framing layers are subtle yet stunning
Face-framing layers are a classic option for anyone with a long hairstyle. These soft, angled pieces draw attention to your eyes and cheekbones. Whether you’re wearing your hair straight, wavy, or curly, face-framing layers add depth and dimension.
Styling tip: Blow-dry the front layers with a round brush to create volume and a polished finish. For extra flair, tuck one side behind your ear to highlight your jawline.
Voluminous curls are glamour at its finest
For drama, voluminous curls are hard to beat. Big, bouncy curls naturally complement the proportions of an oval face shape by adding width and texture. Whether you’re heading to a special event or just want to elevate your everyday look, curls make a statement.
Styling tip: Use a medium or large-barrel curling iron to achieve soft, even curls. For added volume, flip your head upside down and lightly tease the roots before setting with a flexible-hold hairspray.
Mermaid waves are dreamy and timeless
Mermaid waves are all about effortless beauty. This style features long, loose waves that cascade down your back, creating a look that’s both relaxed and refined. The soft, flowing texture of mermaid waves will frame your face without overwhelming it.
Styling tip: Apply a heat protectant before using a waving iron or crimping tool. Finish with a lightweight oil or serum for shine and hydration.
