Haircuts That Work Best for Oval Faces

Oval faces are known for their balanced proportions, making them one of the most versatile face shapes for different hairstyles. Here are 10 chic, short haircuts that flatter oval faces while offering a stylish and trendy appearance. Each look comes with tips and tricks to help you achieve the perfect style.

1. Bubble Bob

The Bubble Bob is a modern twist on the classic bob, characterized by its voluminous, rounded shape. This style is great for adding volume to fine hair while framing an oval face beautifully.

• Why it works: The rounded structure softens the natural symmetry of an oval face, creating a fuller, more youthful appearance.
• Styling tip: Use a volumizing mousse before blow-drying your hair with a round brush to achieve the desired “bubble” effect. Finish with a light hairspray to maintain the volume throughout the day.
• Trick: Flip the ends slightly under with a straightener to enhance the bubble shape.

2. Shoulder-Length Wavy Lob

A wavy lob (long bob) that grazes the shoulders is an elegant, versatile cut. The waves add texture and dimension, creating a soft, feminine look that complements the oval face’s balanced proportions.

• Why it works: The length of the lob allows for versatility, while the waves add softness around the jawline.
• Styling tip: To create loose waves, wrap sections of your hair around a large-barrel curling iron, then finger-comb through to loosen the curls. Add a texture spray for a relaxed, beachy finish.
• Trick: Part your hair slightly off-center to add a bit of asymmetry, which can make your face appear more angular.

3. Layered Curly Bob

A layered curly bob adds volume and shape to curly hair, making it a great choice for women with an oval face. The layers reduce bulk while keeping the curls defined and bouncy.

• Why it works: The layered structure complements the oval face by adding height and texture without overwhelming the natural proportions.
• Styling tip: Use a curl-enhancing cream or mousse and scrunch your hair while blow-drying with a diffuser to maintain curl definition.
• Trick: Opt for slightly shorter layers around the face to frame your features and add more shape to your curls.

4. Flipped Bob with Curtain Bangs

A flipped bob with curtain bangs brings a playful, retro vibe to short hair. The flipped-out ends and soft, parted bangs balance out the oval face’s symmetry while adding flair.

• Why it works: The flipped ends create width, balancing out the narrowness of an oval face, while curtain bangs soften the forehead.
• Styling tip: Use a flat iron to flip the ends of your hair outward, and blow-dry the curtain bangs with a round brush, pulling them away from your face.
• Trick: Apply a lightweight serum to the ends for a sleek, polished finish that accentuates the flip.

5. Textured Pixie

The textured pixie cut is edgy and chic, with plenty of layers to add volume and texture. This short style works especially well with an oval face, as the choppy layers draw attention to the eyes and cheekbones.

• Why it works: The textured layers add dimension and movement, highlighting the bone structure of an oval face.
• Styling tip: Use a texturizing paste or pomade to piece out the layers and create a tousled, lived-in look.
• Trick: Add a bit of volume at the crown by teasing the roots slightly, which gives the pixie more height and structure.

6. Blunt Bob with Wispy Bangs

A blunt bob combined with wispy bangs offers a sleek and sophisticated look. The bluntness of the cut contrasts with the softness of the bangs, creating a stylish balance for oval faces.

• Why it works: The blunt ends create a sharp line that enhances the natural symmetry of the oval face, while the wispy bangs soften the overall look.
• Styling tip: Straighten your hair with a flat iron to keep the blunt bob sharp and sleek, and lightly blow-dry the bangs for a soft, airy finish.
• Trick: Tuck one side of your bob behind your ear to add a bit of asymmetry and show off your jawline.

7. Curly Mixie

The curly mixie is a blend of a pixie and a mullet, making it a trendy, bold option for women with curly hair. The longer layers in the back give this cut a unique, playful shape that flatters oval faces.

• Why it works: The mixie’s longer back layers add depth to the cut, while the short layers in the front keep the focus on your face.
• Styling tip: Apply a curl cream to damp hair and scrunch with a diffuser to define your curls and give the cut its signature shape.
• Trick: Keep the sides slightly shorter to maintain balance and prevent the style from overwhelming your features.

8. Tapered Buzz Cut

The tapered buzz cut is a bold and striking look that accentuates the symmetry of an oval face. With short sides and a slightly longer top, this cut creates a modern, edgy appearance.

• Why it works: The short length brings attention to the facial features, making it ideal for women with an oval face shape who want a no-fuss, high-fashion look.
• Styling tip: Use a small amount of styling wax to give the top a bit of texture and shine.
• Trick: Keep the sides tapered to enhance the contrast between the top and sides, giving the cut more dimension.

9. Long Messy Pixie

The long messy pixie is a more relaxed version of the traditional pixie cut, with longer layers that can be tousled for a carefree, chic vibe. This cut looks great on oval faces, as the longer layers add softness to the angularity of the face.

• Why it works: The longer layers offer versatility in styling, and the messiness adds a playful touch to a structured cut.
• Styling tip: Use a texturizing spray and scrunch your hair for an intentionally messy, voluminous look. You can also add a bit of wax to define specific pieces.
• Trick: Tuck one side behind your ear for a sleek contrast to the tousled texture.

10. French Bob

The French bob is a classic, chin-length cut that exudes Parisian chic. With its short length and subtle waves, this style frames the oval face perfectly, highlighting the jawline and cheekbones.

• Why it works: The French bob’s length and texture provide a flattering, feminine shape that enhances the natural contours of an oval face.
• Styling tip: Add loose waves with a curling wand and finger-comb them for a soft, tousled finish. A light spritz of texturizing spray can help maintain the waves throughout the day.
• Trick: For a more polished look, blow-dry your hair with a round brush to give the bob extra volume at the crown while keeping the ends sleek.

These short haircuts offer plenty of variety, from sleek bobs to textured pixies, making them perfect for oval faces. With the right styling tips and tricks, you can create a standout look that’s trendy and flattering in 2024.