The Best Shag Haircuts for Every Hair Length

The shag haircut transcends all hair length categories, from short to super long. So if length doesn't define it then what does? "The modern shag is a layered haircut paired with piece-y feathered ends, preferably with a fringed front or bangs," says celebrity hairstylist and R+Co collective member, Ashley Streicher. It also works with most

The shag haircut transcends all hair length categories, from short to super long. So if length doesn't define it then what does? "The modern shag is a layered haircut paired with piece-y feathered ends, preferably with a fringed front or bangs," says celebrity hairstylist and R+Co collective member, Ashley Streicher. It also works with most hair textures, though Streicher says it can be a little trickier to style on fine hair. Besides getting the actual cut down, the second most important thing about a shag is using the right styling products to define the layers and angles that make up the look.

Keep scrolling to check out 10 of the coolest modern shags to copy right now — from Julia Roberts' fringe-free style to Janelle Monáe's pixie — and more.

Zendaya

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Zendaya's long and curly shag is paired with a set of bangs that draw even more attention to her caramel highlights.

Sarah Hyland

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Celebrity hairstylist Nikki Lee gave actress Sarah Hyland a bob-length shag haircut with shorter, choppier layers and side-swept bangs.

Taylor Swift

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If you don't want to go full-on '70s, take your shag haircut cue from Taylor Swift. Perfect for lob-length hair, the actress' style includes more subtle layers and textured bangs.

Halle Berry

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To get Halle Berry's shag, ask for long, blended angles around the face and wispy, choppy bangs.

Chloë Grace Moretz

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Chloë Grace Moretz once wore what you'd consider the "true shag" — a mid-length cut complete with long curtain bangs and plenty of choppy layers.

Julianne Hough

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The added bonus of a shag? The hairstyle actually makes exposed roots look even better, so you can go ahead and cancel that salon appointment.

Natasha Lyonne

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If you have long hair but don't want to lose any length, you can still embrace the shag vibe. Consider Natasha Lyonne's long, curly, voluminous look pure inspo. To get the look, be sure to work in some Ouai Air Dry Foam.

Janelle Monáe

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Instead of going for a full bang, Janelle Monáe pushed the top section of her shaggy pixie to the side for an eyebrow-grazing, side-swept fringe effect. To get her texture, Streicher recommends R+Co Trophy Shine + Texture Spray.

Emilia Clarke

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Emilia Clarke's shaggy pixie is slightly more asymmetrical than others. With more length left on top, you can push hair to the front for a fringe-like effect, or sweep it all back.

Julia Roberts

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While bangs are a defining factor of the shag, they're not essential. Take it from Julia Roberts, who wore a lob-length version of the modern shag. Ask your stylist for choppier layers and a length that hits just at your shoulders or a little above.

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