How to Know What Haircut to Get

Getting a haircut seems simple—until you sit in the chair and realize you’re unsure what to ask for. You’ve probably searched “What hairstyle suits me?” or debated, “Should I cut my hair short?” at least once. And honestly, it’s a fair question. A good haircut service can lift your confidence. A wrong one? You’re stuck growing it out for months.

Truth is, knowing what haircut to get isn’t always clear-cut. Your face shape, hair texture, lifestyle, and even personal style all play a role. What works for someone else may not work for you. That’s why this guide lays everything out—short hair options, choosing a haircut according to face shape, and knowing the best haircut for you based on real factors that matter.

If you’ve been stuck wondering where to start, this article breaks it all down in practical steps.

Why Face Shape Matters in Choosing a Haircut

One of the most helpful ways to figure out how to know what haircut to get is to start with your face shape. It might sound overly technical, but it’s a practical guidepost that stylists have used for years. 

The idea is simple: certain styles create balance, while others can exaggerate features in ways you might not want.

How to Identify Your Face Shape

Look in the mirror and pull your hair back so your entire face is visible. You can take a photo and trace the outline or use a soft measuring tape to note your forehead, cheekbones, jawline, and face length. 

From there, you can figure out if you fall into one of the common categories:

• Oval: Balanced, slightly longer than it is wide—great for most styles.
• Round: Cheeks are the widest part; soft jawline.
• Square: Strong jaw, forehead and jawline similar in width.
• Heart: Wider forehead, narrower jaw or pointed chin.
• Long (or oblong): Similar width throughout, but noticeably longer in length.

Understanding your shape helps narrow down what could be the best haircut for you without just copying what someone else has.

Matching Haircuts to Face Shape

Choosing a haircut according to face shape isn’t about following strict rules. Instead, it’s about enhancing your natural structure.

• Oval faces are versatile. Almost anything works—short hair, long layers, or blunt cuts.
• Round faces benefit from angles—think longer layers or asymmetrical cuts that create definition.
• Square faces pair well with soft textures or layers that frame the jawline.
• Heart-shaped faces look great with volume around the jaw to create balance.
• Long faces do well with cuts that add width, like waves or shoulder-length styles.

Should I Cut My Hair Short?

Going shorter can feel like a bold move, especially if you’ve had longer hair for years. But short hair doesn’t have to mean drastic. It can be freeing, modern, and surprisingly low-maintenance.

What to Consider Before Making the Chop

Before jumping in, take a minute to think about your day-to-day routine. Do you spend time styling your hair in the morning, or do you usually wash and go? Are you open to using heat tools or products? Short hair can be easier in some ways, but depending on the cut, it might require more frequent trims or a bit of styling effort to look polished.

Your hair texture also matters. Fine, straight hair might sit differently in a pixie compared to thick, wavy strands. So while the idea of short hair is appealing, it’s worth thinking about how your natural hair behaves. That’s often the real difference between a haircut you love and one you regret.

Signs You’re Ready to Go Short

• You’re looking for a change, but still want something manageable.
• You’re tired of dealing with heavy or unruly long hair.
• You’ve been wearing your hair in a bun 90% of the time.
• You want something that reflects a shift in your personal style or confidence.

There’s no rule that says you need to go ultra-short. A layered bob or lob (long bob) can still count as short hair and give you a refreshing change. If you’ve asked yourself “Should I cut my hair short?” more than once lately, that might be your sign to explore your options.

Short Hair Inspiration and Ideas

Short hairstyles are more versatile than people give them credit for. Whether you want something edgy or classic, there’s a version that works for your face shape, hair texture, and personal style.

Popular Short Haircuts to Consider

• Pixie Cut
  Clean, cropped, and confident. A pixie works well for oval, heart-shaped, and some square faces. It’s low on length but high on personality.
• Bob Cut
  Chin-length or slightly longer, the bob is a timeless option. You can go blunt for a bold look or add layers to soften it up.
• Lob (Long Bob)
  This is the sweet spot for many—it’s short hair that still allows ponytails and waves, great for testing the waters.
• Layered Crop
  It adds movement and volume, which is especially helpful for fine or thin hair. A layered cut can also soften sharp features and offer a bit of edge.

How to Cut Short Hair: What to Ask Your Stylist

Once you’ve decided to cut your hair short, the next step is making sure your stylist knows exactly what you want. Understanding how to cut short hair starts with clear communication—knowing how to describe your ideal length, shape, and style so you and your stylist are on the same page.

Bring a Clear Vision (But Stay Open)

Photos help, so bring at least two to three references to your appointment. Choose cuts that match your hair texture and face shape—not just something that looks nice on someone else. A good stylist will take your inspiration and adjust it to suit your features.

Before any cutting starts, your stylist will take into account your face shape, how your hair grows, and your daily routine. This helps them figure out what styles will truly work for you—not just what’s popular right now.

If you’re wondering what hairstyle suits you, this is the time to ask. A stylist’s trained eye will be able to balance your preferences with their expertise.

Ask These Questions

• What maintenance does this haircut require?
• How often will I need trims?
• Will this cut work with my natural texture?
• What hair products or tools would I need at home?
• Can this be adapted if I change my mind later?

These questions keep you informed, especially when considering a new look. It also helps you weigh the pros and cons of each option before making the cut.

Best Haircut for Me: Balancing Personality and Lifestyle

Finding the best haircut for you is all about choosing a style that fits your daily life, your personality, and how much effort you want to put in. A haircut might look great in photos, but if it doesn’t match how you live or feel, it won’t feel like you.

Your Daily Routine Matters

Do you have time to style your hair every day? Or do you need something low-effort that still looks polished? If you’re always on the go, a cut that requires heat tools and layering products might not be the best fit.

This is especially important when you’re considering short hair. While shorter styles can dry faster, they often require regular styling to keep their shape. A tousled bob or pixie might need more touch-ups than long layers you can just pull into a ponytail.

Match Your Haircut to Your Style

Your personal style also plays a part. If your wardrobe leans bold or fashion-forward, you might feel great in a sharp cut or asymmetrical style. Prefer softer, timeless pieces? A layered shoulder-length cut or curtain bangs might feel more at home.

The question “What hairstyle suits me” becomes easier to answer when you view your haircut as an extension of your overall style. It should match who you are—whether that’s bold, understated, classic, or adventurous.

Gender-Neutral and Statement Cuts

Your haircut should work with your life, not against it. Think about how much time you want to spend styling it, how it fits with your job or routine, and how it makes you feel day to day. The best cuts can make your life easier and reflect who you are without effort.

Maintenance Tips: What Your Haircut Demands from You

Every haircut, no matter how low-maintenance it seems, comes with some level of upkeep. When thinking about how to know what haircut to get, it’s smart to ask yourself how much time and effort you’re willing to put into maintaining the style.

Short Hair Grows Out Fast

One thing many people don’t expect is how often short hair needs trimming. A pixie or fade can lose its shape in just a few weeks. Even a bob can start to feel bulky around the neck or face as it grows. So if you’re considering going short, keep in mind that you’ll likely need a hair salon visit in Palm Beach Gardens every 4–6 weeks.

That said, shorter styles are generally faster to wash, dry, and style—especially if your cut works with your natural texture. Learning how to cut short hair at home isn’t recommended unless you have experience, but maintaining shape between trims can be done with light styling and the right products.

Styling Products and Tools

Longer hair can be more forgiving between cuts, but it might require more time each day. Layered cuts may need blow-drying or curling to look finished. If your goal is low effort, talk to your stylist about cuts that air-dry well or require minimal shaping.

Regardless of length, investing in a few key tools can help:

• A good blow-dryer with a diffuser
• Lightweight styling cream or texture spray
• A flat iron or curling wand, depending on your go-to style

Common Haircut Mistakes to Avoid

Figuring out how to know what haircut to get can be tricky, especially when you’re overwhelmed with style options and online inspiration. To make the process smoother, here are a few common mistakes to look out for—and how to avoid them.

1. Copying a Look Without Considering Your Hair Type

It’s easy to fall in love with a haircut you saw on someone else, but your texture and density may respond differently. What sits sleek and smooth on fine, straight hair might turn puffy or uneven on thick or curly strands.

Before committing, ask yourself: “What hairstyle suits me and my hair’s natural texture?” A cut that works with your hair, not against it, will always be easier to manage.

2. Overlooking Face Shape

Ignoring your face shape can lead to imbalanced results. A haircut according to face shape helps frame your features and add proportion where needed. That doesn’t mean sticking to rigid rules, but it helps guide the shape and length of your cut.

If you’re unsure what works well with your structure, ask your stylist for input—they’ll know how to highlight your strengths without overcomplicating the look.

3. Going Too Short Too Fast

Feeling bold and thinking “Should I cut my hair short?” That’s totally valid—but try easing into it if you’re nervous. A mid-length or lob cut gives you a fresh look without going all-in right away.

Drastic cuts can feel exciting at the moment, but you should give yourself time to adjust. You can always go shorter at your next visit.

4. Forgetting About Upkeep

Some hairstyles require more maintenance than they appear to. Short hair, in particular, may need trims every few weeks to hold its shape. If you’re used to a long, low-maintenance cut, this could come as a surprise.

Ask about the upkeep involved before finalizing your choice. This will help you make a decision that works for your routine and minimize styling stress.

5. Vague Communication with Your Stylist

Not being specific with your stylist can lead to results that miss the mark. Instead of saying “Just a trim” or “whatever looks good,” explain your preferences clearly.

Use reference photos, mention what you like and dislike, and talk about your day-to-day styling habits. This makes it easier for your stylist to tailor the cut and helps you avoid unnecessary surprises.

Let Theaology Salon and Day Spa Help You Choose the Right Cut

Face shape, texture, lifestyle, and maintenance needs all play a role in finding the right hairstyle for you. Whether you’ve been wondering, “Should I cut my hair short?” or you’re exploring how to work with your texture, the right guidance makes all the difference.

If you’re still unsure how to know what haircut to get, we’re here to help. At Theaology Salon and Day Spa, our stylists take the time to understand your features, your preferences, and your hair’s natural behavior. We’ll guide you through options—whether it’s short hair, soft layers, or something in between—and tailor each look to fit you comfortably and confidently.

Thinking of changing it up? Let’s talk about what works for your lifestyle, face shape, and hair goals. Contact us today to learn more.