Is Your Hairstyle Bringing Out Your Best?

by Rigel Celeste (RSS feed)
Mar 25th 2010 at 4:01PM

The way we do our hair is a mix of instinct, genetics, fashion trends, and personal taste, but sometimes all of those variables don't come together smoothly and a truly unflattering style results. If your mom isn't around to tell you about it though chances are no one else will, so here are a few tips for making sure you're flaunting a 'do that brings out the best you have to offer.

The key to choosing a hairstyle that really flatters is understanding what your basic face shape is: oval, round, square, or heart. If you don't know or are unsure see our How to Determine Your Face Shape post, then read through the guidelines below.

Oval faces are the most versatile and can pull off pretty much any cut. Pick your best feature and style your hair to accentuate it, for example bangs will bring out your eyes while an angular bob will accentuate your jaw, cheekbones, and bone structure.

Round faces look good in off-center parts that break up the roundness, along with height and volume at the crown to elongate and slim the face. Wispy or tapered ends and layers also work well. Avoid cuts that are widest at the cheekbones or round bobs that end at the chin -- both will add weight and make the face appear even rounder.

Square faces are flattered by loose waves and curls that frame the face and soften angular edges. Blunt bangs make a square face look wider, but wispy or side-swept bangs can flatter by elongating and breaking up angular lines. Avoid very structured or severe cuts, and any length can work except bobs ending right at chin level.

Heart faces usually look best in hairstyles that draw the eyes away from the chin and up to the eyes but don't add volume on the top. Side-swept bangs or layers that end at the cheekbones are good, as are chin-length bobs or longer hair that has layers. Cuts that add height and volume at the crown can make the chin appear longer and even more prominent.

Tags: beauty, beauty-pedia, fashion, hair, hairstyle