I’ve spent over a decade behind the chair and the camera, so I know a secret: the right haircut doesn’t just flatter your face—it tells your story. Round faces (think Selena Gomez or Chrissy Teigen) are all about soft curves and gorgeous cheekbones, but let’s be honest: sometimes you want to add a little edge, length, or drama. As both a hairstylist and photographer, I’m sharing my top cuts, styling hacks, and sneaky tricks I use on set to make round faces shine. Let’s check them out.
1. Long Layers with Face-Framing Pieces
Why I love it: Soft layers starting at the collarbone draw the eye down, elongating your face. Perfect for photos—the movement catches light beautifully.
My tip: Ask your stylist for “whisper-thin” layers around your cheeks to soften fullness.
2. Angled Lob
Why I love it: Shorter in the back (chin-length or neck-length) and longer in the front creates a jaw-skimming diagonal line.
Photographer hack: This cut adds shadow under the jaw, slimming your profile in portraits.
3. Medium Length Curtain Bangs
Why I love it: These gorgeous, soft layers that cascade from the cheekbones down to the collarbone work wonders to visually lengthen a round face, creating such a flattering effect. Plus, the way this cut moves and catches the light makes it an absolute dream in pictures
4. Side-Swept Bangs
Why I love it: Diagonal bangs break up roundness and add sophistication.
Styling must: Blow-dry bangs with a round brush toward one temple for lift.
5. Asymmetrical Pixie
Why I love it: Height at the crown + shaved or tapered sides = instant edge. This chic, pixie is serving major cool vibes. The subtle layers add movement and volume, making it modern and effortless. It’s a versatile length that’s easy to style and always looks on point!
Client story: I gave this cut to a CEO client—it screamed “confidence” in her LinkedIn headshot.
6. Blunt Cut with Deep Side Part
Why I love it: A deep side part (think Zooey Deschanel) creates illusion of length.
Product pick: Living Proof Full Thickening Cream ($33) – adds weightless volume at the roots.
7. Soft Shag with Textured Ends
Why I love it: Choppy layers add volume at the crown, balancing roundness.
Camera-ready trick: Spritz OUAI Texturizing Spray ($32) at the roots for “I woke up this cool” grit.
8. High Ponytail with Face-Framing Tendrils
Why I love it: Pulls focus upward, lengthening your face.
Photo tip: Loosen two face-framing pieces—they’ll flutter in wind shots for a candid vibe.
9. Wispy Curtain Bangs
Why I love it: Bardot-inspired bangs skim cheekbones, creating angles.
Styling note: Use a flat iron to flick ends outward (no duck lips required).
Jessica’s Pro Styling Kit
- Bio Ionic Curling Iron ($150): Creates loose, face-lengthening waves.
- Revlon Ionic Volume Booster Brush ($12): Lift roots in 60 seconds flat.
- Matte Root Spray (e.g., R+Co Badlands, $33): Reduces shine at the temples (shine = width!).
FAQs (From My Clients & Photo Shoots)
Q: Can round faces pull off short hair?
A: Absolutely! Just avoid chin-length cuts. Go shorter (pixie) or longer (lob) to elongate.
Q: What’s the worst hairstyle for round faces?
A: Blunt, chin-length bobs or center parts—they’re like a spotlight on roundness.
Q: Are bangs a yes or no?
A: Side-swept or curtain bangs = yes. Heavy, straight-across bangs = no.
Q: How often should I trim layers?
*A: Every 8-10 weeks. Ragged layers widen the face—keep them sharp!*
Jessica’s Quick Fixes
- “Oops, my cut’s too round!”: Add face-framing highlights to draw eyes downward.
- Photoshoot trick: Pose at a ¾ angle and tousle hair forward—it slims instantly.
- Daily hack: Middle part looking blah? Switch to a deep side part in 10 seconds.
Final Thoughts
Your round face is stunning—my job is just to help you play it up. Whether you’re prepping for a Zoom call or a photoshoot, these cuts and tricks will make you feel like the main character. And hey, if all else fails? Throw on a bold lip and own it. Confidence is the best accessory.
