Short Shag Haircuts That’ll Finally Convince You to Make the Chop

By Kaitlyn Yarborough
September 05, 2018
Credit: @mrchrismcmillan
In the age of micro-bangs and unicorn hair, we’re ready to go back—way back—to a classic cut: the shag. Shaggy styles have been back in the limelight this year, for good reason, and the modern shag haircut is still going strong into the fall. We’re not talking Mick Jagger, circa 1972, but rather a nostalgic nod that’s approachable, softer, and absolutely not one-size-fits-all. We rounded up the coolest short shag haircuts to try out this year, and these looks are packed with layers, texture, and bangs of all types, but kept at the lowest maintenance of lengths. Check out these short shag hairstyles that give of-the-moment inspiration for a throwback style.
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Curly Chin Bob

Credit: @salsalhair

This bob has got some personality, y’all. Cut those curls to a chin-grazing length, and add some killer fringe for fall. It’s the cherry on top of this cheeky cut by Nova Arts Salon owner, Sal Salcedo.

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Curtain Fringe

Credit: @ashleenormanhair

Take on some French girl fringe. If forehead-covering shaggy bangs aren’t your thing, this stylish alternative will keep the cool factor going all the way from the choppy layers to the effortless texture.

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Tapered Shag

Credit: @anhcotran

This shag is a gorgeously edgy take on the classic cut that Joan Jett would approve of. With short layers, tapered ends, and a slight angle, it’s a cool girl’s dream.

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Baby Bangs

Credit: Ilya S. Savenok/Getty Images

If you’re no stranger to bangs and bobs, take it to the next level with choppy baby bangs. It adds a touch of shagginess to a layered chin-length bob, and it instantly makes your short cut a bold statement.

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Transition Shag

Credit: @mrchrismcmillan

It’s a little wispy, and a whole lot sassy. Stylist Chris McMillan conjured up this cut as a fresh way to grow out his client’s bob. If this is the transition phase, we can’t imagine how good the next look is going to be.

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Refined Shag

Credit: Cindy Ord/Getty Images

Low maintenance and high style, this is the little black dress of shags. The layers and bangs of a classic shag have started growing out, and the vibe has skewed just a little more refined.

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Curly Shag

Credit: @salsalhair

No matter what time of year it is, it’s always the perfect time to embrace your natural texture. Luckily for curly girls, a shag cut (and all of its glorious layers) helps let those curls run wild—and not look weighed down—and let’s not even talk about how cute curly bangs are.

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Straight Shag

Credit: @salsalhair

Getting a shag cut doesn’t mean you have to constantly conjure up those “undone-done” waves with your curling iron. This straight shag gets the name from its layers and curtain bangs, and the cool platinum color more than secures its place on the lineup.

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Long Ashy Bob

Credit: @seolahair

Kiss those warm locks goodbye, and go full on ash tones for the season. The cool brunette shade makes a cool cut even cooler, if that’s possible. A lob-length shag will also be flattering on just about any face shape.

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Shaggy Short Bob

Credit: @ashleenormanhair

Rock the shaggiest of short layers with this razored chin-length bob. The modern shag goes light on the bangs, but heavy on the textured layers, courtesy a razor haircut by stylist Ashlee Norman.

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Side-Swept Shag

Credit: Karwai Tang/Getty Images

Keep things posh and polished with this side-swept shaggy bob that’s lighter on the short layers and perfect for thick-haired ladies.

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Choppy Shag

Credit: Gregg DeGuire/Getty Images

This shag says one thing: No holds barred. Break out the texture spray and styling wax—because this edgy bob loves them both.

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By Kaitlyn Yarborough