Many of us have a pretty good idea of what suits us, or the length in which we most like our hair. Choosing a flattering length and shape for your hair is key to feeling and looking your best everyday, but some of you might actually be supporting the completely wrong hair length for your features. If you’re thinking about trying a new style, or you simply want to find your most flattering hair length, read on…

Consider your Face Shape

While there are various factors to think about to find your perfect hair length, one of the biggest elements is your face shape. It is important to create balance to your overall appearance, and balance can be enhanced, just like imbalance can be emphasized through the shape and length of your hair….

– Long face: if you have a long and narrow shaped face, avoid long hair. Going for length will simply drag your face down, making it appear even longer. Instead, try a bob that sits just short of your chin to create better balance.

– Round face: If you have a round face, opting for longer styles will help to make your face look more balanced and oval in shape. Long length and a side swept fringe can help to slim your face and make it look more contoured.

– Square face: Try waves or curls in mid lengths to soften a square face. Shoulder length hair or a little longer is perfect for those with a square face.

Heart shaped: Long hair is great for a heart shaped face. Avoid blunt edges though, particularly in shorter cuts, and stay away from bobs.

Oval face: An oval face shape is considered to be balanced already. If you have an oval face you are lucky as you can try out almost any length.

Consider Texture

The type and texture of your hair matters when it comes to length too. If your hair is pretty normal – i.e. not particularly thick or thin, not coarse or frizzy, you can get away with most hair lengths.

– Fine hair: When hair that is on the fine side gets long it can end up looking limp. The longer it gets, the heavier it will be, and so the more it will drag itself down. Shorter haircuts can create more body and volume. If your face shape requires a longer cut but you have fine hair, consider going for a length just a few inches under the shoulders, with lots of layers.

– Thick hair: Those with thicker hair might find that their hair is unmanageable in shorter styles. Thick hair is often coarse and frizzy, which results in a mind of its own in short styles. Try growing it long to add weight and tame it. As your hair gets longer, it will naturally sit smoother and be easier to manage.

Finding the perfect hair length means achieving balance, and both your face shape and your hair type matters here. If you’re not sure what’s best for your hair, book in for a consultation to receive professional advice.