Styles for Square Faces
Square faces are characterized by strong jawlines that are as wide as the cheekbones. Think Gwyneth Paltrow, Kiera Knightley, and Olivia Wilde…not a bad group to be a part of! With a square face shape, your goal is to go for cuts and styles that soften your face’s angular facial structures. This guide should answer any questions about how to get the most flattering style for your square face.
Layer It Up
A layer below the collarbone is your best choice for a square face, coupled with layers that turn inward, framing your face just right. You can never go wrong with layers, and for a square face, the first (shortest) layer should start even with the chin area to offset a strong jawline. Graduated layers (your stylist knows this term) reduce the broadness of the jawline and cheekbones. This showcases your face without looking like you’re hiding behind it. It’s also a good idea to have all layers turning inward, not outward, so that the face narrows. Keeping hair close to your face will soften a strong jawline. Just a caution, too-short layers can make a square face shape seem flat or wide, so be extra clear on where you want your shortest layer to fall.
A Little Off Center
Did you ever think your part could have an effect on your face shape? Well, it definitely can. A square shaped face looks best with a slightly off-center part (somewhere between the side and middle part line) to help round out the face. It frames the face without being harsh or dramatic, narrowing the width of your face and offsetting any harsh angles. Experiment with your part, to experiment with the proportions of your face.
The Lob
Square face shapes can absolutely get away with shorter hair if longer styles aren’t your favorite. The most ideal cut for you is a long bob, or Lob. When you look at someone wearing this cut from the front, the two straight sides of the hair hang down beside the cheekbones, and slightly mask the width of the cheekbones, forehead, and jawline. Long bobs are great on a square face; as long as they are soft and layered. Just as with a long cut, make sure the bottom length does not hit AT your chin or jawline, which just draws more attention to those angles.
Bang Bang
Bangs are not for everyone, but if they are your thing and you have a square face, you’ll want to make sure that the outside corners of your fringe are a little longer than the center, eye-skimming (or brow) length. This automatically creates the framing effect, drawing the attention inward, and ultimately softening the wideness. Breezy, side swept bangs also work and take the edge off angular lines because they always look softer and draw attention to the eyes.
Perfectly Unperfect
For a square shaped face, a relaxed low chignon with a slightly off-center part, and pieces pulled out is your go-to. This style softens the the squareness, and the pieces pulled out create a focal point. Chignons are a classic style, and by making the style less “perfect”, you’ll get the perfect compliment to your bone structure.
Making Waves
Regardless of the length you choose, show off a great cut for your face by adding some waves. Soft waves that are natural or curled add the right amount of softness to a strong jawline.
The Don’ts
The best tip is to avoid dramatic styles. Stay away from severe ponytails, one-length bobs, and blunt bangs. Avoid cuts and styles that leave all the weight at the bottom. These looks create a lot of drama on their own, and with strong features naturally, you don’t want to add too much. If you are ever unsure of a style know that your main goals should be to compliment. Use this guide for your next trip to the stylist chair! Enjoy your fabulous bone structure and enhance your features, ladies!
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