20 Best Modern Shag Haircuts for Women

Hey there, fellow hair enthusiasts! It’s your girl, coming at you with the latest scoop on one of the hottest trends in the hair world right now – the modern shag haircut. Trust me, this isn’t your mama’s shag from the ’70s (though we love that too!). We’re talking about fresh, edgy, and oh-so-stylish cuts that are taking over salons and social media alike.

So, grab your favorite beverage, get comfy, and let’s dive into 20 modern shag haircuts that’ll have you speed-dialing your stylist before you even finish reading. Whether you’re a short-hair devotee or living for those long locks, there’s a shag cut here with your name on it!

1. The Classic Modern Shag

Let’s kick things off with the OG of modern shags. Picture this: lots of choppy layers, a bit of volume at the crown, and those signature piece-y ends. It’s like the lovechild of a bob and a mullet, but way cooler. This cut works on pretty much any hair type and length, which is probably why it’s become such a staple.

The best part? It’s low-maintenance enough for busy mornings but can be styled up for a night out. Win-win!

2. The Textured Pixie Shag

Short hair, don’t care? Then this one’s for you! The pixie shag is all about embracing your natural texture and adding some serious edge. We’re talking super short sides and back, with longer, shaggy layers on top. It’s like a pixie cut went to Coachella and came back with a whole new vibe.

It’s bold, it’s brave, and it screams confidence. Plus, it’s perfect for showing off those cheekbones and jawline. Who needs contouring when you’ve got a haircut this good?

3. The Long Layered Shag

Calling all my long-haired beauties! You don’t have to sacrifice length to get in on the shag trend. The long layered shag is all about creating movement and texture throughout those luscious locks. We’re talking long, face-framing layers, lots of internal texture, and those signature shaggy ends.

If you’re looking to breathe new life into your long hair, this is the way to go.

4. The Curly Shag

Curly girls, this one’s for you! The curly shag is all about embracing and enhancing your natural texture. We’re talking lots of shorter layers around the crown to create volume, and longer layers throughout to maintain length and shape. It’s like your curls got an instant upgrade.

I love this cut because it works with your curls, not against them. No more fighting frizz or trying to tame your texture. This cut lets your curls do their thing, and trust me, they’ll thank you for it. Just add some curl-defining cream, scrunch, and go!

5. The Shaggy Bob

Can’t decide between a bob and a shag? Why not have both? The shaggy bob is the perfect middle ground. It’s got the length and shape of a classic bob, but with all the texture and edge of a shag. Think lots of choppy layers, piece-y ends, and maybe even some curtain bangs if you’re feeling extra sassy.

It’s the perfect “gateway” cut if you’re thinking about going shorter but aren’t quite ready for the big chop.

6. The Messy Mid-Length Shag

If you’re all about that effortless, “I woke up like this” vibe, then the messy mid-length shag is your new best friend. It’s got all the hallmarks of a classic shag – lots of layers, texture for days – but with a lived-in, tousled finish that looks like you just rolled out of bed (in the best way possible).

It’s perfect for air-drying, and it actually looks better with a bit of natural texture. Beach waves without the beach? Sign me up!

7. The Shaggy Lob

The lob (long bob) has been having a moment for a while now, and adding some shag to it just takes it to the next level. The shaggy lob combines the sophistication of a lob with the edginess of a shag. We’re talking blunt ends, lots of internal layers, and maybe even some face-framing pieces.

Good if you want to keep some length but was bored with the current style. A chic, versatile cut that look just as good in the boardroom as it do at the bar. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of haircuts – it can do it all!

8. The Textured Bangs Shag

Let’s talk about bangs, baby! Adding some textured bangs to a shag cut is like putting the cherry on top of an already delicious sundae. Whether you go for full, blunt bangs or softer, more feathered ones, they add an extra layer of cool to your shag.

I love how versatile bangs can be with a shag cut. You can wear them straight and sleek for a more polished look, or tousle them up for that perfect “French girl” vibe. Just remember, bangs are a commitment, so make sure you’re ready for the upkeep!

9. The Shaggy Mullet

Okay, I know what you’re thinking. “A mullet? Really?” But hear me out! The modern shaggy mullet is not your uncle’s “business in the front, party in the back” disaster. It’s a cool, edgy take on the classic shag that’s been making waves in the fashion world.

Think short, textured layers on top and around the sides, with longer, shaggy layers in the back. It’s daring, it’s different, and it’s definitely not for the faint of heart. But if you’re looking to make a statement, this cut will definitely do the trick!

10. The Platinum Shag

Now, this isn’t technically a cut, but hear me out – there’s something about a platinum blonde shag that just hits different. The cool, icy tone combined with the textured, piece-y layers of a shag cut creates a look that’s equal parts punk rock and high fashion.

The platinum really emphasizes all the different layers and textures in the cut, creating a look that’s bold, edgy, and totally unforgettable.

11. The Shaggy Pixie with Long Bangs

For those who love short hair but still want some styling versatility, the shaggy pixie with long bangs is a dream come true. It’s got all the ease and edginess of a classic pixie, but with longer bangs that can be styled in multiple ways.

I love how this cut can go from cute and playful to sleek and sophisticated with just a change in how you style the bangs. Sweep them to the side for a softer look, or slick them back for some serious model-off-duty vibes. It’s like having two haircuts in one!

12. The Voluminous Curly Shag

Calling all my curly-haired queens! If you’re blessed with big, bouncy curls, the voluminous curly shag is about to become your new obsession. This cut is all about embracing and enhancing your natural texture, creating a shape that lets your curls live their best life.

We’re talking lots of shorter layers around the crown to create height and volume, with longer layers throughout to maintain that gorgeous curl pattern.

13. The Layered Shag with Side-Swept Bangs

Can’t decide between bangs or no bangs? The layered shag with side-swept bangs gives you the best of both worlds. It’s got all the texture and movement of a classic shag, but with the added softness and face-framing effect of side-swept bangs.

I love this cut for those who want to dip their toes into the world of bangs without committing to a full fringe. The side-swept bangs blend seamlessly into the rest of the layers, creating a soft, flattering frame around the face. Plus, they’re super easy to grow out if you decide bangs aren’t your thing.

14. The Razor-Cut Shag

For those who really want to embrace the edgy, rock ‘n’ roll vibes of the shag, the razor-cut version is where it’s at. Instead of using scissors, this cut is created entirely with a razor, resulting in softer, more textured ends that practically scream “cool girl.”

I recently learned this technique, and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer. The razor creates these incredible, piece-y layers that move beautifully and add so much texture to the hair. It’s perfect for finer hair types that need some extra oomph, or for anyone who wants that lived-in, effortless look.

15. The Shaggy Wolf Cut

If you’ve been anywhere near TikTok in the last year, you’ve probably heard of the wolf cut. Well, guess what? It’s basically a shag’s cooler, edgier cousin. The shaggy wolf cut combines elements of a mullet and a shag, with lots of choppy layers and a distinctive shape that’s longer in the back.

I love this cut for its versatility – it can be as subtle or as dramatic as you want it to be. Plus, it grows out beautifully, so you don’t have to worry about awkward in-between stages. It’s like the haircut that keeps on giving!

16. The Textured Shag with Money Piece Highlights

Let’s talk color for a second. While the shag cut is all about texture and movement, adding some strategically placed highlights can take it to a whole new level. Enter the money piece – those face-framing highlights that instantly brighten up your complexion and add dimension to your cut.

Try this combo with dark brown hair and the contrast is stunning. The money piece highlights emphasize all the different layers in the cut, creating a look that is multi-dimensional and totally eye-catching. It’s like contouring, but for your hair!

17. The Shaggy Undercut

For my bold babes who aren’t afraid to make a statement, let me introduce you to the shaggy undercut. This cut combines the texture and movement of a shag on top with a closely cropped undercut on the sides and back. It’s edgy, it’s daring, and it’s definitely not for the faint of heart.

I love this cut because it’s so versatile. Wear it down for a more traditional shag look, or slick it back to show off that undercut. Plus, it’s perfect for summer – no more sweaty neck!

18. The ’70s-Inspired Shag

Sometimes, you’ve got to look to the past to find inspiration for the future. The ’70s-inspired shag is a modern take on the original shag cut, with lots of long, sweeping layers and that distinctive feathered look.

19. The Asymmetrical Shag

Who says shags have to be symmetrical? The asymmetrical shag takes all the texture and movement of a classic shag and adds an unexpected twist. Think longer layers on one side, shorter on the other, creating a dynamic, eye-catching shape that’s sure to turn heads.

I love recommending this cut for those who want something a little different. It’s edgy without being too out there, and it’s surprisingly versatile. Plus, it’s perfect for those who like to change up their part or play with different styling options.

20. The Shaggy Fringe

Last but definitely not least, let’s talk about the shaggy fringe. This cut combines a classic shag with a full, textured fringe that hits right at or slightly below the eyebrows. It’s got that cool, rockstar vibe that shags are known for, with the added bonus of some seriously flattering face-framing action.

I recently suggested this cut to someone who wanted to hide a high forehead, and it worked wonders. The full fringe draws attention to the eyes, while the shaggy layers throughout add movement and texture. It’s like instant cool-girl vibes in a haircut.

Conclusion

And there you have it, folks – 20 modern shag haircuts that are guaranteed to shake up your style. Whether you’re looking for something short and sassy or long and luxurious, there’s a shag out there with your name on it. Remember, the best haircut is one that makes you feel confident and beautiful, so don’t be afraid to experiment and find the shag that speaks to you. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got some shags to cut and some styles to slay. Until next time, keep it shaggy!