Are you ready to revamp your look with one of the most versatile and trendy hairstyles? The shag haircut, a nostalgic nod to the 1970s, is making a strong comeback with a modern twist. This updated version of the classic cut is softer, more tailored, and incredibly flattering for all hair types and face shapes. If you’re looking for inspiration for your next salon appointment, these 30 shag hairstyles will have you booking a stylist in no time.

What is a Modern Shag Haircut?

Unlike the original shag haircut that was all about bold, choppy layers, today’s version takes a more refined approach. The modern shag incorporates softer layers, seamless transitions, and face-framing bangs that complement your unique features. Whether you prefer a short crop, a mid-length bob, or longer locks, the shag can be customized to suit your style and personality.

How to Style a Modern Shag

Styling a shag haircut is incredibly versatile, allowing you to embrace natural waves, add volume, or opt for sleek and straight locks. Here are a few pro tips:

• Use Layer-Friendly Products: Opt for texturizing sprays, curling mousse, or smoothing serums to highlight the layers.
• Dry with Purpose: A round brush and blow dryer can create volume, while a flat iron can give a sleek finish.
• Customize Your Bangs: From curtain bangs to full fringes, the right bang style can enhance your overall look.

30 Modern Shag Haircuts to Inspire Your New Look

1. The New Shag

Soft layers and subtle waves define this updated shag, offering a feminine take on the classic style. Perfect for medium-length hair with natural movement.

2. Shaggy Bob

This French-inspired short bob features choppy bangs and layers, making it ideal for oval faces.

3. Sleeker Shag

For a polished look, this style balances tousled bangs with smooth, shiny locks. Use a smoothing serum for that sleek finish.

4. Shaggy Crop

A slightly stacked crop cut with shaggy layers and bangs delivers an edgy, yet approachable vibe.

5. Old School Shag

A modernized take on the retro shag, this cut features layered framing and curtain bangs for a subtle nod to the past.

6. Cropped Top

Short layers on top create volume and shape, making this cut perfect for those who love bold, high-energy styles.

7. Side-Parted Shag

This side-parted bob with thick bangs adds a sophisticated edge and frames the face beautifully.

8. Subdued Shag

For a quieter take on the shag, opt for softer layers and a longer length, emphasizing a sleek, refined finish.

9. Balayage Highlights Shag

Modern shag meets trendy balayage. Wavy layers and face-framing highlights make this cut effortlessly chic.

10. Curly Girl Shag

Enhance natural curls with layered cuts that add volume and shape. Curling mousse is your best friend here.

11. Blunt Shag

For a rebellious twist, go for blunt ends paired with shag-inspired layers.

12. Shag-Inspired Long Locks

Keep your length intact while embracing the layered, tousled look of a shag.

13. Fullest Bangs

Thick, eyebrow-grazing bangs add drama to this layered cut while maintaining a classic elegance.

14. Lob-Length Shag

Combine the trendy lob with shag-inspired layers for a stylish, modern look.

15. Transition Shag

Perfect for growing out a bob, this style features fringe bangs and wispy layers for added volume.

16. Breezy Shag

Give curly hair added shape and bounce with blended layers and soft bangs.

17. Curly Shag

Layers prevent natural curls from weighing down, adding movement and volume.

18. Medium-Length Shag

Curtain bangs and face-framing layers soften this medium-length style, perfect for low-maintenance elegance.

19. Classic Shag

Inspired by Farrah Fawcett, this cut features long, feathered layers with a modern twist.

20. Highlighted Shag

Subtle highlights around the face elevate this layered look.

21. Blunt Shag with Full Bangs

Achieve a bold yet effortless style with full bangs and blunt ends.

22. Wild and Free Shag

Short bangs and tousled layers create rockstar-worthy volume.

23. Short Angled Shag

Angled layers and curtain bangs bring texture and volume to this cute bob cut.

24. Sleek and Straight Shag

Smooth and edgy, this style pairs sleek hair with layered texture.

25. Blonde Shag

Turn heads with a platinum blonde shag featuring blunt ends and edgy layers.

26. Curly Shag Without Bangs

Define your curls with layered cuts, skipping the bangs for a fresh, modern look.

27. Piecey Fringe Shag

Add texture with piecey fringe and tousled waves for a beach-ready style.

28. Shaggy Crop in Platinum

Blunt ends, soft layers, and a platinum hue update this shaggy crop.

29. Blunt Shag with Baby Bangs

Straight hair gets an edgy boost with blunt ends and baby bangs.

30. Rockstar Shag

Channel your inner Joan Jett with short bangs, layered volume, and tousled waves.

Ready to Embrace the Shag?

The shag haircut is versatile, flattering, and effortlessly cool. With endless variations, there’s a modern shag style for everyone. Whether you’re looking to enhance natural curls, add volume, or keep things sleek and edgy, these cuts offer plenty of inspiration.