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The shag is an updated version of the 1970s haircut that established the name. Whether the cut is short, medium, or long, the shag usually consists of multiple layers. The shortest is often at the top and the longest usually establishes the hair length. The shag is low maintenance, yet exhibits a sexy, sultry and trend setting style that appeals to women of all ages and lifestyles.

General Information

According to beauty-and-the-bath.com, most shag cuts accent the face, add height at the crown and ensure volume in the back. Some include bangs, but they are not necessary. The site recommends cutting hair dry so it will be easier to see the overall effect immediately.

Hair-style-salon.org reminds that short shags are often carefree, with a piecey, messy look. For that reason, a razor cut works best, although scissors or a combination of the two can also be used. This type of cut usually has more layers that fall forward toward the face.

Hairstyle-tips.net believes that medium shags offer the most versatitlity. Lots of layers all over add dimension while a few layers add volume. Scissors generally work best when it comes to cutting medium-length shag.

Longer layers add texture and volume to long hair that might otherwise remain flat the lifeless. Avoid adding too many layers to thick hair, however, since it could complicated the styling process. Razor cutting can add extra texture while scissor cuts ensure more even layers.

Cutting a Shag

Start the shag cut by dividing the hair into sections for the top, sides and the back. Pull back hair by clipping it or putting into an elastic band. Pin the side and top hair out of the way with hair clips.

Cut the bangs. Pull the desired amount of hair forward. There is no perfect amount when it comes to bangs. Choose what makes you feel most comfortable. Cut the bangs below, midway, or at the top of eyebrows. They can be cut straight across, angled or pieced as desired.

Move to one side, cutting hair using one of two common methods. The first method angles the hair toward the face. The second angles it away from the face. Layers may be cut straight across or angled based on the overall look desired. Repeat the same techniques with the other side. Be sure to measure to make sure each set of layers are reasonably even.

Finally, cut the back of the hair, adding the number of layers desired based on the overall length desired. Back layers should be cut using the same methodology (straight or angled cuts) as used throughout the rest of the hair. Multiple layers will result in a highly textured look while fewer layers will look slightly more sleek and sophisticated.

Trim the hair using the same techniques every six to eight weeks to maintain the style.