Discover 17 trendy medium-length shag haircuts for effortless style and versatility. From layered bobs to textured lobs, find your perfect look today!

Looking for a haircut that’s effortlessly chic, incredibly versatile, and on-trend in 2025? Medium length shag haircuts are your go-to style for modern, lived-in beauty. With roots in 1970s rock-n-roll glam and a firm footing in today’s fashion-forward aesthetics, the shag has evolved into a dynamic haircut that flatters every face shape, hair texture, and lifestyle. Whether you’re after soft waves, bold choppy layers, or a sleek fringe, the medium shag offers a personalized look that feels edgy yet wearable.

Unlike more rigid haircut styles, the modern shag thrives on movement, dimension, and natural texture—making it perfect for women who want a low-maintenance style that looks stunning whether air-dried or styled. The beauty of the shag lies in its layers: strategically cut to create shape, body, and bounce without compromising length. It’s ideal for fine hair needing volume, thick hair requiring structure, and curly or wavy textures craving definition.

In 2025, shag haircuts have taken over everything from fashion runways to social media feeds. Celebrities, influencers, and everyday style enthusiasts are embracing medium shag cuts for their flattering appeal and effortless cool factor. Whether you want something boho-inspired, retro, edgy, or polished, there’s a shag style that fits your vibe—and your routine.

In this guide, we’ll explore 17 trendy medium length shag haircuts that range from classic to contemporary, all curated to help you find your perfect match. You’ll discover tips on styling, maintenance, and what to ask your stylist, along with fresh image inspiration for each variation.

Let’s dive into the most head-turning shag styles this year—and get ready to transform your hair game with volume, texture, and style that speaks for itself.

Table of Contents

Why the Shag Is Dominating Hair Trends in 2024

Recent Google Trends data shows a 135% increase in searches for “shag haircut” over the past year, proving its resurgence in popularity. Celebrities like Taylor Swift, Billie Eilish, and Sydney Sweeney have all rocked modern shag styles, making it a go-to for those who want lived-in texture with a fashion-forward twist.

But what makes the medium-length shag so special?

Perfect Balance – Not too short, not too long, making it ideal for work, weekends, and special occasions.
Works for All Hair Types – Whether you have straight, wavy, curly, or fine hair, a shag can enhance your natural texture.
Face-Framing Magic – The layers are designed to accentuate cheekbones and jawlines, flattering oval, round, square, and heart-shaped faces.
Low Maintenance, High Impact – Unlike sleek bobs or blunt cuts, the shag thrives on a bit of messiness, meaning fewer salon visits and easier styling.

What Is a Shag Haircut? The Ultimate Guide to This Iconic Style

The shag haircut is a layered, textured style that first gained popularity in the 1970s but has evolved into a modern, effortlessly cool look. Characterized by choppy layers, feathered ends, and lived-in movement, the shag is designed to create volume, dimension, and a carefree vibe.

Key Features of a Shag Haircut

Layered Texture – Unlike blunt cuts, a shag uses uneven, cascading layers to add body and movement.
Face-Framing Pieces – Shorter layers around the face enhance cheekbones and jawlines, making it flattering for most face shapes.
Feathered or Razored Ends – The ends are often point-cut or razored for a piecey, undone look.
Versatile Lengths – While traditionally medium-length, modern shags can range from short (pixie shag) to long (mermaid shag).
Works with All Hair Types – Whether you have straight, wavy, curly, or coily hair, a shag can be customized for your texture.

A Brief History of the Shag

1970s Origins – Popularized by Jane Fonda, Mick Jagger, and Farrah Fawcett, the shag was the epitome of rock ‘n’ roll glam.
1990s Grunge Revival – Stars like Kurt Cobain and Winona Ryder brought back the messier, edgier version.
2020s Modern Update – Today’s shag combines retro vibes with contemporary techniques, featuring softer layers, curtain bangs, and blended textures.

Why the Shag Is Still Trending

✔ Effortless Styling – Looks great air-dried or tousled, perfect for low-maintenance routines.
✔ Adds Volume – Ideal for fine or flat hair, as layers create the illusion of thickness.
✔ Timeless Yet Trendy – Works for all ages and aesthetics, from boho to edgy.

Shag vs. Other Layered Cuts

Cut	Shag	Lob	Rachel Cut
Layers	Choppy, uneven	Soft, blended	Uniform, face-framing
Texture	Piecey, undone	Sleek	Bouncy, polished
Maintenance	Low	Medium	High (needs frequent styling)

Pro Tip: If you love volume and movement but hate daily styling, the shag is your best bet!

Why Choose a Medium-Length Shag? The Perfect Balance of Style & Practicality

The medium-length shag haircut has become one of the most requested styles in salons—and for good reason. Striking the ideal balance between polished and playful, this cut offers versatility, effortless texture, and face-flattering dimension that works for nearly everyone.

7 Reasons to Try a Medium Shag

1. The Goldilocks Length: Not Too Short, Not Too Long

A medium shag (typically shoulder to collarbone length) gives you:
✔ More styling options than a short shag (pixie or cropped styles)
✔ Less maintenance than long shag haircuts (no heavy ends weighing layers down)
✔ Easy grow-out phase if you decide to switch lengths later

Celeb Inspiration: Taylor Swift’s signature shaggy lob proves this length is timeless yet trendy.

2. Instant Volume & Body (Even for Fine Hair)

The secret? Strategic layering:

Shorter interior layers lift roots for fullness
Longer exterior layers prevent over-thinning
Textured ends create movement, making hair appear thicker

3. Works With Every Hair Texture

Hair Type	Shag Adaptation
Straight	Blunt-cut layers add edge
Wavy	Enhances natural texture
Curly	Reduces bulk while defining curls
Coily	Staggered layers prevent triangle effect

4. Low-Maintenance Styling (Hello, Bedhead Chic!)

Unlike blunt bobs or sleek styles:
➔ Air-dries beautifully with natural texture
➔ Requires minimal heat styling (just a quick scrunch with texturizing spray)
➔ Grows out gracefully between trims (8-10 weeks recommended)

5. Face-Framing Magic for All Shapes

Face Shape	Shag Customization
Round	Longer front layers elongate
Square	Softened jawline with wispy ends
Oval	Any variation works
Heart	Balance with chin-length layers

6. Trend-Proof Yet Always Fresh

2024 Update: Modern shags incorporate:
✦ Curtain bangs (see Jennifer Lawrence)
✦ Money-piece highlights for dimension
✦ Wolf cut elements for Gen Z appeal

7. Perfect for Hair in Transition

Growing out a pixie?
➔ Shag layers blend awkward lengths
Recovering from damage?
➔ Removes split ends while retaining length

**Who Should Avoid a Medium Shag?**

While versatile, reconsider if you:
✖ Prefer pin-straight styles (layers encourage texture)
✖ Have very fragile hair (over-layering can stress strands)
✖ Want ultra-polished looks (shags are intentionally messy-chic)

here are 17 Trendy Medium-Length Shag Haircuts:

1. Heavily Layered Shag

This style features numerous layers throughout, adding volume and movement. Ideal for those seeking a dynamic, lived-in look with body and bounce.

2. Boho Chic Shag Cut

Combining tousled layers with a free-spirited vibe, this cut offers a carefree, slightly messy appearance, perfect for an “undone” look.

3. Ombre Shag with Bangs

Blending trendy color gradients with textured layers, this style transitions from darker roots to lighter ends, adding dimension and depth.

4. Angled Medium Haircut with Jagged Layers

Featuring sharp angles and textured layers, this bold haircut is shorter at the back and gradually lengthens towards the front, creating a sleek silhouette.

5. Brunette Shag with an Off-Center Part

A chic, modern hairstyle with textured layers and a slightly asymmetrical look, adding volume and movement.

6. Bronde Shag

Combining blonde and brunette tones with textured layers, this style offers a sun-kissed, natural look that’s both low-maintenance and stylish.

7. Straight Shag Cut with Bangs

A modern twist on the classic shag, featuring straight hair with choppy layers and fringe, offering a sleek yet playful look.

8. Medium Messy Shag

A laid-back, textured hairstyle with choppy, uneven layers, giving a carefree, tousled look with emphasis on volume and movement.

9. Textured Medium Shag

Boasting layers of varying lengths, this haircut creates a textured look that adds volume and dimension, perfect for a relaxed and effortless appearance.

10. Layered Curtain Bangs Shag

Combining medium layers with curtain bangs, this variation provides a delicate yet impactful aesthetic, framing the face beautifully.

11. Choppy Medium Shag

Characterized by choppy layers throughout, this edgy haircut offers a tousled appearance that exudes confidence and style.

12. Retro-Inspired Shag with Feathered Ends

This variation features feathered ends and face-framing layers, offering a chic vintage vibe reminiscent of the 70s.

13. Layered Bob Shag

Integrating shag elements with the timeless bob, this style features layered ends for enhanced volume and a playful bounce.

14. Wavy Mid-Length Shag

Perfect for those with naturally wavy hair, this style enhances the wave pattern with layers that add movement and dimension.

15. Cute Blonde Face-Framing Shag

Designed to highlight facial features, this shag haircut with face-framing layers softens the look and draws attention to the eyes and cheekbones.

16. Silver Shag with Blunt Bangs

Combining blunt bangs with shaggy layers, this edgy look contrasts sharpness with messiness, adding a modern twist to the classic shag.

17. Curly Shag

Incorporating layers that enhance and define curls, this haircut maintains volume and shape, ideal for those with naturally curly hair.

Why Medium Length Shag Haircuts Are Trending in 2025

Medium length shag haircuts are the ultimate fusion of texture, volume, and low-maintenance cool. This year’s trends bring modern updates to this retro-inspired cut, making it suitable for every face shape and hair type.

Benefits of a Medium Shag Haircut:

Effortless styling with air-dry or minimal heat tools
Volume-enhancing layers for fine or flat hair
Customizable fringe options (curtain bangs, blunt, wispy)
Great for wavy, curly, or straight textures

💇‍♀️ Expert Styling Tips for Shag Haircuts

Mastering the look of a medium length shag haircut is all about enhancing natural texture, creating movement, and maintaining the shape with minimal effort. Here are expert-approved styling tips to help you keep your shag fresh, fashionable, and photo-ready:

✅ 1. Embrace Your Natural Texture

Use a lightweight curl cream or sea salt spray to enhance waves and curls.
Air drying works wonders for a relaxed, lived-in finish.
For straight hair, a quick twist-and-dry method adds natural body.

✅ 2. Add Volume with Dry Shampoo

Spritz dry shampoo at the roots even on clean hair to build volume.
It adds grip and separates layers for that tousled shaggy effect.

✅ 3. Use Texturizing Products

Apply mousse or texture spray to damp hair before blow drying.
Focus on the mid-lengths to ends to emphasize layered definition.

✅ 4. Diffuser = Curl Enhancer

If you have curly or wavy hair, use a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer to add bounce without frizz.
Always dry on low heat to preserve hair health.

✅ 5. Trim Regularly to Keep the Shape

Schedule a trim every 6–8 weeks to maintain the structure and movement of your shag cut.
Shags lose their dynamic effect without regular upkeep.

✅ 6. Avoid Heavy Oils or Creams

Stay away from products that weigh down the hair—shag styles thrive on lightweight volume.
Instead, opt for volumizing foams or featherlight serums.

✅ 7. Blow-Dry with a Round Brush for Softness

For a more polished look, use a round brush at the ends while blow drying.
This helps soften the choppiness and adds bounce.

✅ 8. Play with Partings

Change your hair part occasionally to refresh volume at the roots.
Middle part for balance, deep side part for drama.

✨ Final Thoughts on Medium Length Shag Haircuts: Trend Meets Timeless Style

Medium length shag haircuts have undeniably made a bold return in 2025, and it’s easy to see why. With their effortless charm, customizable layers, and low-maintenance styling, shag haircuts offer a solution for virtually every hair type and lifestyle. Whether you’re embracing a laid-back, bohemian aesthetic or aiming for a sleek and structured silhouette, the versatility of the shag cut makes it one of the most adaptable and fashionable hairstyles of the decade.

These trendy medium length shag haircuts are not just a fleeting style—they’re a reflection of modern beauty standards that prioritize individuality, texture, and movement. From razor-cut edges and face-framing layers to curtain bangs and voluminous crowns, each variation brings something unique to the table. Whether your hair is straight, wavy, or curly, there’s a shag haircut perfectly suited to enhance your natural texture and elevate your look.

What sets medium shag haircuts apart is their ability to evolve with you. Want to grow out your bangs? No problem. Need something that looks polished at work and playful after hours? The shag handles both seamlessly. This adaptability is what continues to make shag hairstyles a top choice for women seeking both function and fashion in one chic package.

Furthermore, this haircut works beautifully across age groups and hair concerns. For mature women, the layers add much-needed volume and lightness. For younger trendsetters, it offers a rebellious, edgy charm that feels fresh and current. In essence, the medium length shag is a true style equalizer—flattering, fashionable, and fun.

As you consider your next hairstyle, remember that the modern shag isn’t just about looking great; it’s about feeling confident and expressive. Consult with a skilled stylist who understands your hair texture and face shape, and use this guide to pinpoint the variation that best aligns with your style goals.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Medium Length Shag Haircuts

Q1: Can a shag haircut work on naturally frizzy hair?

A: Yes! Shag haircuts are actually ideal for frizzy hair because the layered structure helps distribute volume and reduce the appearance of puffiness. Using anti-frizz serums and light styling creams can enhance the texture while maintaining the cut’s signature movement.

Q2: Is the shag haircut still trendy in 2025?

A: Absolutely. The medium length shag continues to dominate hairstyle trends in 2025, thanks to its retro revival and adaptability to modern lifestyles. It’s one of the most requested styles in salons due to its balance of edge, texture, and ease of maintenance.

Q3: Will a shag haircut make my hair look thinner?

A: Not necessarily. When done correctly, shag haircuts add the illusion of volume through layering, especially around the crown and face. It’s a great option for those with fine or thinning hair who want more body without bulk.

Q4: Are shag haircuts suitable for round faces?

A: Yes! A medium length shag with face-framing layers and curtain bangs can elongate the appearance of round faces, creating a more balanced and sculpted look.

Q5: How do I transition from a blunt cut to a shag?

A: Transitioning from a blunt cut involves gradually introducing layers and possibly growing out bangs or adding soft fringe. It’s best to work with a stylist over 2-3 appointments to reshape without losing too much length at once.

Q6: Can I wear a shag haircut in professional settings?

A: Definitely. A modern shag can be styled sleek for formal environments or tousled for casual settings. Its versatility allows for both playful and polished looks, making it office-appropriate with the right finishing products.

Q7: What’s the best way to grow out a shag gracefully?

A: Maintain regular trims to prevent ends from splitting and ask your stylist to blend the layers as they grow. You can also use accessories like clips or headbands to style in-between phases.