The Haircut That Everyone Is Asking For: Why The Shag Is Back & Better Than Ever

There’s something about the shag haircut that just screams “cool girl” energy. Maybe it’s the effortless bounce, the perfectly imperfect layers or its connection to the It-girls of the ‘70s. But one thing is certain, the shag is back and it’s having a full blown revival in 2025.

From TikTok tutorials to fashion week front rows, the modern shag has infiltrated every corner of the beauty scene. And honestly, we're obsessed. This isn’t your mum’s throwback cut, it’s chicer, softer, and more wearable than ever before. With celebrities and influencers swapping sleek strands for voluminous looks and layered cuts, the shag is dominating hair trends across the globe.

So, What Exactly Is a Modern Shag Haircut?

Let’s break it down - the shag is a heavily layered cut, typically with choppy ends, curtain or micro bangs and tons of volume. It flatters all hair lengths from short to long flowing manes. 

But the modern shag is less punk and more polished. It still has a rock’n’roll vibe, but it’s softened with gentle layers, rounded shaping and the kind of effortless style that gives off “I woke up like this” energy. Which means, maximum volume with minimal effort.

Photo: Rochelle Desnoo & Davidwbullen

How to Style a Shag Haircut?

The beauty of a shag haircut lies in its built in volume and texture. Whether you're heading to brunch or to a festival, here's how to style a shag haircut:

1. Add Air & Volume with the Interchangeable Blow Dry Brush

Start with damp hair and prep with a heat protectant like our Styling Primer. Then reach for the small round brush attachment from the Interchangeable Blow Dry Brush. This tool dries and lifts your roots, giving instant volume without the hassle. Concentrate at the crown to amp up the volume from the root to the ends.

2. Define Layers with the Style Wand 

Use the Style Wand to enhance your layered cut by curling random sections away from the face for movement and edge. If you prefer a more lived-in waved texture, try the automatic Spin curling wand bouncy curls that mimic that tousled, ‘70s-inspired look.

3. Detail the Fringe

Your fringe is the hero of your modern shag. Use the Straightener or the Thermal Brush to curve bangs under or sweep them to create curtain bangs. Finish with the Wax Stick to define pieces and add texture.

4. Lock It In

Lock in the style with a lightweight texture or shine spray. Opt for the Mermade Mist to create a shiny finish.

From Billie Eilish’s edgy mullet-shag hybrid to Kaia Gerber’s effortlessly grown-out fringe, trending hairstyles in 2025 are all about individuality and self-expression. The shag’s layered versatility works across every hair type and face shape, cementing its status as the ultimate universally flattering cut.

Photo: Billie Eilish & Kaia Gerber

With the right shape, styling tools, and a touch of texture, the shag haircut delivers that perfect mix of effortless style and volumised looks.