Hairstyles for Oblong Face Shape: The Ultimate Guide for Men
Finding the right hairstyle can make a significant difference in how you feel about your appearance, especially if you have an oblong face shape. An oblong face is characterized by its length, often appearing longer than it is wide, with a narrow forehead and chin. The goal when choosing a hairstyle for an oblong face shape is to create balance and width to counteract the elongated appearance. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore various hairstyles that work best for men with an oblong face, offering options ranging from classic to contemporary styles.
Understanding the Oblong Face Shape
Before diving into specific hairstyles, it’s important to understand what constitutes an oblong face shape. Men with this face shape typically have the following features:
Length: The face is noticeably longer than it is wide.
Forehead and Chin: The forehead and chin may be of similar width, contributing to the face’s elongated appearance.
Cheekbones: Cheekbones are often less pronounced, leading to a less rounded look.
The goal with your hairstyle should be to add width and volume to the sides of your face while avoiding styles that elongate your face further.
Best Hairstyles for Oblong Face Shape
Textured Quiff
A textured quiff is a fantastic choice for men with oblong faces. This hairstyle adds volume to the top of the head, which can help balance the length of the face. To achieve this look, use a volumizing mousse or a texturizing spray and blow-dry your hair while lifting it at the roots. The quiff’s added height creates an illusion of a wider face, making it a suitable option for oblong face shapes.
Side-Parted Style
A side-parted hairstyle can break up the length of an oblong face by introducing horizontal lines. This style works well with various hair lengths and types. By parting your hair to one side, you create a visual balance, reducing the appearance of length. Additionally, incorporating a bit of volume on the sides can enhance this effect, creating a more proportional look.
Buzz Cut
For a low-maintenance and clean look, the buzz cut is a great option. The buzz cut minimizes the length of the hair, which can help in balancing an oblong face. To add a bit of flair, you can experiment with different lengths or incorporate subtle fades. This style emphasizes simplicity and neatness while preventing the hair from elongating the face further.
Medium-Length Layered Cut
A medium-length layered cut can be ideal for men with oblong faces, as the layers add volume and texture. The layers should be styled to add width to the sides of your face, which counteracts the length. This style works well with natural waves or curls, providing a dynamic and balanced look. Avoid too much length on top, as it can accentuate the face’s length.
Pompadour
The pompadour, characterized by its voluminous style swept back, can be an excellent choice for an oblong face shape. The added volume on top helps to balance the face’s length while the sides are kept shorter, which creates a sense of proportion. Use a strong-hold pomade or gel to maintain the style throughout the day, and consider a side part to enhance the balance.
Crew Cut
A classic crew cut can work well for those with an oblong face. This style is short on the sides and back, with a bit more length on the top. The minimal length on the sides helps to add width to the face, while the top length can be styled to add a bit of volume if desired. This straightforward style is easy to maintain and provides a clean, balanced appearance.
Fringe or Bangs
Incorporating a fringe or bangs into your hairstyle can help to shorten the appearance of an oblong face. The bangs add horizontal lines that break up the length of the face, making it appear wider. Opt for a fringe that falls just above the eyebrows to create the most balance. This style works well with medium to longer hair lengths and can be styled in various ways to suit your preferences.
Bro Flow
The bro flow is a relaxed, flowing style that works particularly well for men with longer hair. This hairstyle involves letting the hair grow out to a medium length and allowing it to naturally fall back. It adds volume and movement to the sides, helping to create a more balanced look for an oblong face. This style requires minimal effort and works well with natural textures.
Tips for Choosing the Right Hairstyle
Consider Your Hair Texture: The texture of your hair can significantly impact how a hairstyle looks. For instance, wavy or curly hair can add volume and width, while straight hair might require additional styling products to achieve the desired effect.
Experiment with Length: While shorter hairstyles generally work well for oblong faces, don’t shy away from medium-length styles. The key is to ensure that the hairstyle adds width and doesn’t further elongate the face.
Consult a Stylist: A professional stylist can offer personalized advice based on your hair type, face shape, and lifestyle. They can help you find the perfect cut that balances your features and complements your overall look.
Conclusion
Choosing the right hairstyle for an oblong face shape involves balancing and adding width to the appearance of the face. From the textured quiff to the classic buzz cut, there are numerous options to explore that can help create a more proportionate look. Experiment with different styles, and don’t hesitate to seek professional advice to find the perfect hairstyle that enhances your features and suits your personal style.