Choosing the right haircut can completely transform your look, and that’s especially true when it comes to Short Hairstyles for Round Faces. Round face shapes are typically characterized by soft features, full cheeks, and nearly equal width and length. While these features give a youthful and balanced appearance, they can sometimes be challenging to style—particularly with shorter cuts—if you’re not taking your face shape into account.
Short Hairstyles for Round Faces
Short hairstyles for round faces are designed to enhance and flatter soft, circular features. The right cut can add definition, volume, and the illusion of length for a balanced, stylish look.
Textured Pixie Cut
The textured pixie is perfect for round faces because it adds height at the crown and creates sharp angles that break up facial roundness. Layers and choppy ends give it a modern, edgy look while keeping styling easy and fresh.
Asymmetrical Bob
An asymmetrical bob draws attention downward and adds structure, making the face appear longer and slimmer. With one side slightly longer than the other, this cut adds visual interest and flatters the natural contours of a round face.
Side-Swept Bangs with a Short Cut
Short hair paired with side-swept bangs helps elongate the face and reduce the appearance of width. This style works especially well with a pixie or bob, as it creates movement and frames the face beautifully.
Long Layered Bob (Lob)
A lob that falls just below the chin with subtle layers adds the right amount of length to balance out a round face. The layers help create shape and dimension, keeping the cut from looking too heavy or boxy.
Curly Bob with Volume
Curly hair can be super flattering for round faces when styled with volume on top rather than on the sides. A curly bob with a side part and slightly tapered shape draws the eyes upward and slims the face.
Short Shag with Curtain Bangs
The modern shag, featuring lots of layers and texture, adds height and shape while curtain bangs frame the face in a soft, flattering way. This combination helps elongate the face and brings out cheekbones.
Undercut Pixie
An undercut pixie is bold and stylish, with volume focused on top and closely cropped sides. This contrast gives the illusion of a longer face while showing off your facial features and jawline.
Chin-Length Bob with Side Part
A chin-length bob with a deep side part shifts focus away from the widest part of the face. The angled parting creates a slimming effect, and the structured bob enhances your natural bone structure.
Faux Hawk Cut
For a daring and fashion-forward look, the faux hawk cut adds height and edge. The lifted crown visually elongates the face, while the sides are kept sleek to avoid adding any unnecessary width.
Wavy Crop with Layers
A wavy crop cut with layered texture is playful and flattering, offering movement and volume in all the right places. It softens the roundness while adding dimension and a touch of effortless style.
Maintenance & Upkeep
Keeping your short hairstyle looking fresh and flattering requires a bit of regular maintenance, but the good news is that most short cuts are quick to style once you get the hang of them. With the right routine, tools, and a few easy tricks, your short hairstyle for a round face can stay sharp, stylish, and low-fuss day after day.
Frequency of Trims
Short hairstyles need more frequent trims than longer styles to maintain their shape and definition. Aim to visit the salon every 4–6 weeks to keep the style clean and prevent it from growing out unevenly, especially around the neckline and ears.
Styling Products/Tools to Use
Depending on your hair texture and style, lightweight mousse, texturizing spray, or pomade can help define layers and add volume. Use a flat iron or small curling wand for polished looks, or a round brush and blow dryer to lift the roots and create movement.
Everyday Quick Styling Tips
Keep things simple with a quick tousle using dry shampoo or texturizing spray to refresh and add body. For pixie cuts, use a pea-sized amount of pomade or wax to sculpt and separate pieces. For bobs or lobs, a quick side part and light wave with a curling wand can add instant style with minimal effort.
FAQ
Are short hairstyles flattering for round faces?
Yes! Short hairstyles can be incredibly flattering for round faces when styled to add height, create angles, and reduce overall width. Cuts like pixies, angled bobs, and layered shags are great options.
What length is best for a round face?
Chin-length or slightly longer styles work well for round faces. Styles that hit just below the chin can help elongate the face and create a more balanced look. Avoid cuts that end at the widest part of your face unless they include angles or layers.
Should I avoid bangs if I have a round face?
Not necessarily! Side-swept bangs or curtain bangs can be very flattering as they add angles and frame the face beautifully. Avoid full, blunt bangs that can emphasize roundness.
How can I make my round face look slimmer with short hair?
Choose styles that add volume at the crown, include layers for texture, and incorporate side parts or asymmetry. Avoid wide, straight styles that make your face appear even rounder.
Hi, I’m Kortnee Vancleave, a hairstylist based in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. I’ve always had a passion for hair, which led me to pursue my education at Paul Mitchell Cosmetology, where I trained in cosmetology, barbering, styling, and nail instruction. As the proud owner of Top Knot Stylist, I’ve spent years perfecting my craft and sharing my love for hair with clients.
I created my website as a resource to inspire both women and men with fresh, creative hairstyle ideas. Whether you’re looking for classic cuts or bold transformations, I’m here to help you find your next look!