Choosing the right haircut should involve more than flicking through the latest celebrity mag and telling your hairdresser, "I want that one." Cutting you hair solely according to the current trends could be a disaster if you sport the wrong face shape. If you have a long face, Paris Hilton's extended locks could make you look even longer in the face.
The first rule is to know the shape of your face. Surprisingly, not many women are fully aware of this or never consider it when flicking through styling mags. You then need to brush up on what will suit you and know exactly what you need to avoid.
Picture caption: Clever cuts - a windswept fringe draws attention to the eyes and cheekbones.
Oval shaped face: An oval face shape is the most versatile face. Luckily for you, you can pull off almost any look and length, so flick away in those magazines and choose whatever takes your fancy. Wear your hair layered near your cheekbones, lips or chin to highlight whichever of these features you choose.
The only hair styles you need to avoid are ones sporting short layers that add height to the top of your head, which would throw off the lovely balance of your face shape.
Long or oblong shaped face: If you have a long or oblong-shaped face then curls and waves can create the illusion of width. Luckily for you, this season's chin-length bobs are also ideal for you, but only if you have straight hair. If you want it long and straight, cut in a swept-over fringe which will dramatically make your face appear shorter by covering up your forehead. Fringes will also provide the illusion of extra width.
Shy away from blunt fringes, which are too harsh. You should also avoid overly long or short cuts as these will elongate your face. If wearing your hair past your shoulders, make sure you have it cut into layers, particularly around the face.
Round shaped face: If your face is round you should opt for styles that fall right below your chin or those that add volume on top. Go for soft, graduated layered hairstyles that will make your face look slimmer. Fringes can be flattering: keep them long and wispy with tapered ends to detract from the roundness of your face.
You should avoid hairstyles that add bulk or weight to the side of your face. If you wear your hair short, avoid one-length blunt cuts that emphasise the roundness of your face.
Square shaped face: If you have a square-shaped face then you will need to choose a textured hairstyle that will shift the focus of attention away from the jaw line. You should opt for long, sleek layered styles that add interest below the jaw line or short spikey cuts.
Avoid blunt cut fridges and one length bobs as these hairstyles will make your face look even squarer.
Heart shaped face: If your face is heart-shaped then a pointy chin will more than likely be the focal point of your face. Opting for a windswept fringe will draw attention to your eyes and cheekbones instead. Hair that falls below the jaw line works particularly well. If you want it short, keep top layers long and soft.
You should avoid blunt cut fringes and anything too harsh as these will emphasise your angular chin.
