7 Hairstyles for oval faces to try this year

Women with oval faces are often called lucky, as it’s considered the most versatile face shape that can be paired with just about any hairstyle or cut. The downside? It can be a challenge to make a choice when anything goes and there are so many options available to inspire, or in many cases, confuse you even further. So don’t worry if you’re stuck for ideas for your next trip to the salon: check out our edit of the best hairstyles for oval faces below.

Short hairstyles for oval faces

Classic pixie cut

If you’ve decided to take the plunge and go short, the pixie is a cute and classic option. Looking for celebrity inspiration? Emma Watson, Rihanna and Jennifer Lawrence have all been advocates for this style. Keep it long on the top with a sweeping side fringe, and short on the sides and back, using choppy layers to provide depth and make the cut more feminine.

Long pixie

Not quite ready for the ultra short pixie? Then why not have a go at the long version. The choppy layers are a great way of adding width to slimmer and longer-shaped faces. But don’t forget that texture and volume are essential to making this hairstyle work. Try the Dove Advanced Hair Series Oxygen Moisture Root Lift Spray (£6.99*) to help boost your roots and stop your hair from looking limp.

Graduated bob

If you’re looking for an update on the traditional bob, the graduated style is your answer. The angular lines of the this cut will instantly lend a contemporary feel. The key to nailing this hairstyle? Keep your parting to the side and frame your face using the graduation of the haircut, which should follow the natural line of your jaw.

Medium-length hairstyles for oval faces

Middle parting with layers

Being one of the most versatile face shapes, oval is also one of the few types that can effortlessly rock a middle parting. Tip: keep your layers soft and subtle as the small variations in length will help make this style look less harsh or too uniform. Also try adding some waves: this will aid to further soften the haircut.

Tip: To add movement to your mane, and to help define your layers, spray some TRESemmé Perfectly (un)Done Dry Defining Spray (£5.50*) all over your hair.

Long bob

Perhaps pixies and graduated bobs are a little too extreme? Then consider the long bob, also known to those familiar with trending hair lingo as ‘the lob’. Combined with a long sweeping fringe, the lob is perfect for complementing oval-shaped features. The advantage is that it works wonders with both straight and wavy hair. Just remember to ask for a longer cut if you have a very curly mane.

Long hairstyles for oval faces

Full fringe with long length

If you are worried about adding layers and are precious about your hair length, this haircut is for you. The secret to elevating this classic style is by adding a fringe. Oval faces tend to be longer than they are wide, so the aim is to add width. A heavier, longer but still piecey fringe does just that, working to shorten the proportions of an oval face without having too harsh of an effect. Keep the rest of your hair long and casually tousled, but don’t forget to request a fringe that finishes just under the eyebrows.

Tip: Use slimline straighteners, like the Toni&Guy Flawless Finish Straightener, to help you achieve a smooth, yet bouncy fringe.

Grown-out fringe and middle parting

This is a great choice if you have straight or wavy hair, and are looking for something more understated. Ask your stylist for long, piecey bangs that just hits the bottom of the cheekbone, to provide a sort of grown-out fringe look that will help frame and add definition to the face. Take a leaf out of Jessica Biel’s book and keep the length, but soften it with short, subtle layers for a more delicate finish.

Proof that hairstyles for oval faces are ever-versatile. Which one is your favourite?