When you have thick hair, going shorter can be intimidating—and risky—as your locks may be prone to building extra body that could change the shape of your cut. On the other hand, a lengthy mane means that you’ll have more hair to wash, dry, and style. Translation: extra time added to your haircare routine. However, one fool-proof length for thick hair worth trying is just above or just below the shoulders. But don’t just take out word for it; we tapped experts Fallon Toni Chavez and Marcus Francis who revealed why mid-length cuts are flattering for denser hair types and shared their tips for styling a thicker mane.
So regardless of your hair texture, whether it’s stick-straight, wavy, curly, relaxed, or natural, there’s an ultra-flattering shoulder-length haircut that suits you. To prove it, we rounded up our favorite mid-length styles to inspire your next salon visit.
From blunt cuts to long layers, keep scrolling for the best shoulder-length haircuts for thick hair.
Blunt Texture
Olivia Palermo’s wavy locks look effortlessly cool with a rough chop that gives her blunt cut more dimension. Chavez adds, “Shoulder-length cuts for thick hair are good for a few reasons. First of all, eliminating dry damaged ends, getting a fresh new start—it’s a great alternative to cutting your hair short for a completely new look.”
Long, Sleek Layers
Sleek hair looks impeccably polished in long layers that fall just below the shoulders. For added gloss like Joan Smalls, finish with Kenra Professional Shine Spray ($19).
Beachy Waves
As evidenced by Olivia Munn, long layers give wavy hair an extra boost of body. Ask your stylist to angle ends so that they hit just above and below the shoulders. “This length looks great with a soft natural beach wave,” adds Chavez. A few spritzes from a salt spray can give you this visually effortless style.
Chandelier Layers
Lilli Reinhart’s cascading layers frame the face in dramatic descending waves that suit her thick, straight locks. For maximum hold, secure your finished waves with a hairspray like L’Oreal Paris Elnett Satin Extra Strong Hold Hairspray ($12).
Voluminous Curls
Kerry Washington’s curls make a glamorous statement as they sit right at the shoulders. You just have to ask your stylist to cut a tad longer so the length is maintained after your curls set. To get Washington’s shiny, bouncy curls, we suggest investing in a curl cream. Amika Curl Corps Curl Defining Cream ($26) works especially well for thick tresses.
Wavy Shag
Okay, technically this cut is a tad shorter than shoulder-length, but we had to include given just how good it looks on JLaw. Francis especially favors this cut due to its versatility: “The length is long enough to keep the texture manageable and has several style options. The shaggy layers give the cut lots of movement and body while allowing the natural texture to look its best,” he says.
Light, Curly Layers
Thick hair can take ages to style, so why not go all-natural like Solange? The light layers of her locks gently shape her voluminous curls that sit just above her shoulders. The effect is ethereal.
Sleek and Blunt
There’s nothing boring about a blunt cut like Margot Robbie’s that shows off the healthy thickness of your locks. Chavez says that when it comes to shoulder-length cuts for thick hair, you can’t go wrong with “a super-clean, straight polished look.”
Ombré With Long Layers
Long layers that fall just below the shoulders showcase Jourdan Dunn’s gorgeous ombré. The gradient color is ideal for those with thick tresses since the lighter shade at hair’s ends creates an effect that makes them appear less heavy.
Face-Framing Layers
Rosie Huntington-Whiteley’s choppy, face-framing layers give her hair shape when worn wavy or straight. It’s a versatile cut that can match any mood or occasion. In other words, this ‘do is a winner among her many great hair moments.
Varied, Woven Layers
Nathalie Kelley’s varied layers, cut just above the shoulder, are an effortless look for wavy-haired girls that requires little styling. Her caramel highlights show off her delicately woven hair, thereby adding dimension.
Cool-Girl Lob
The same cut stays fresh even when grown out a bit like Aimee Song’s cool-girl lob. Although we’re highlighting the best cuts for thick hair, this length is known to flatter all hair types and textures.
Side-Parted, Natural Curls
British singer-songwriter Corinne Bailey Rae’s natural curly mane is jaw-droppingly gorgeous. Keeping her layers at various lengths adds a bit of personality and shows that she doesn’t take herself too seriously. It also lends shape to thick, curly tresses.
Choppy Layers
Choppy layers in a rough cut just above the shoulders help to bring voluminous body to Selena Gomez’s platinum locks. Layers are key here since they soften this cut and keep it from appearing too blocky—a risk when it comes to thick tresses.
Asymmetrical Lob
Jennifer Hudson’s sharp asymmetrical bob comes just past the shoulder at its longest point. To get this pin-straight effect, you’ll want to flat-iron your strands. Then, follow-up with a hair serum like Garner Fructis Sleek and Shine Anti-Frizz Serum ($5) to add shine and keep flyaways at bay.
Choppy Ends
Padma Lakshmi looks sophisticated with this mid-length cut, but the choppy ends add a bit of edge. They also serve to make thick strands appear less heavy and severe. Finish with Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray spray for gritty perfection.
Curly Shag With Bangs
From long to short, Zendaya has rocked a lot of looks that gave us hair envy. We’re into this shoulder-length shag of hers that beautifully incorporates bangs. “Curly or wavy bangs are having a moment because it has shown many women you can have bangs even if your hair isn’t straight. They are sexy and effortless with this shaggy cut, giving lots of movement and texture. This style is no-fuss and makes a statement,” says Francis.
Tousled and Blunt
A blunt cut can also look just as good on hair with a slight wave, as seen here on Kendall Jenner. The best part about shoulder-length hair? “You can get a fresh new look without cutting all your hair off,” Chavez tells us. “This length is also great with long layers or even bangs, and it can still be pulled back and up for other looks or exercise,” she adds.
Sleek and Retro
Tessa Thompson’s well-oiled waves are vintage glam. This style also serves a practical purpose by maintaining and shaping her thick tresses. To get her silky glass strands, we recommend using a product that will coat locks in shine, like Oribe Gold Lust Nourishing Hair Oil ($38).
Loose Waves
Riverdale star Camila Mendes has stunning natural waves. This shorter, choppier, shoulder-grazing style suits her heart-shaped face and adds loads of texture to her strands. Layers like this can take the bulk out of thick hair as well.
Wavy Shag With Fringe
We first set eyes on Linda Cardellini as the loveable Lindsay Weir in the cult hit Freaks and Geeks, but now she is all grown up and she never looked better. Her modern shag is on point, striking the perfect balance between a thick, heavy bang and soft, romantic waves.
Voluminous Blowout
Janelle Monáe serves as one of our go-to sources for beauty inspiration, especially when it comes to hair. While we’ve seen her rock many styles, we can’t take our eyes off of this shoulder-length ‘do. Full of body, it’s finished with a side-swept wave that gives off a slightly retro vibe.
Bejeweled Natural Lob
Hair gems are a quick and easy way to dress up your ‘do. Kerry Washington’s textured tresses are slicked down and pulled back in one small section near the part to create a canvas for bright stick-on jewels. Copy her look with Bitzy Stick On Assorted Color Crystal Hair Gems ($4).
Slicked-Back
Bella Hadid models slicked-back hair that is making us consider hopping on the celebrity hair trend bandwagon. Not only is this look in, but it’s also a great option for thick hair, making it appear less weighty. Its slightly androgynous tone is not only beautiful but inspiring.
Sleek-Straight Lob
Vanessa Hudgens rocks a ’70s-style straight lob with a sharp center part. A single-length cut without layers can work well for hair that is thick but not bulky. To fight frizz, spray with Matrix Total Results Mega Sleek Iron Smoother ($18).
Voluminous Afro
To hydrate course curls like Esperanza Spalding’s, Francis recommends first applying Better Natured Hydrating Leave-In Milk ($22) to wet hair and then again to dry hair after diffusing, lightly scrunching on ends to create definition.
Structured S-Waves
Jenna Dewan’s seductive Old Hollywood waves are the opposite of relaxed and casual. The hair follows the curve of her face, highlighting her cheekbones, and tips back in at the ends for a polished, red carpet-worthy look.
Curly Lob and Bangs
Yara Shahidi’s beautiful ringlets are so well-defined you can practically see every single one. We especially love her eyebrow-grazing curly fringe and the healthy, high-shine finish of her hair. As curls require hydration, don’t forget to use a conditioning product like Shu Uemura Essence Absolue Nourishing Protective Hair Oil ($69) to lock in moisture.
Windswept Waves
With her relaxed waves and fresh tan, Kristin Cavallari is the poster woman for laid-back, beach chic. To get a similar look, use a texturizing spray like the Eva NYC City Grit Matte Texture Spray ($15) with argan oil and fatty acids. It will give hair soft, touchable body without the crunch.
KEY INGREDIENTS
Argan oil is a plant oil extracted from the kernels of the fruit pit of the argan tree (aka Argania spinosa) which grows in Morocco. The ingredient is rich in antioxidants and fatty acids. It also provides anti-inflammatory and moisturizing benefits.
Invisible Part
Priyanka Chopra’s hair is serving up major body. An invisible part really lifts the hair at the crown, adding loads of height and the appearance of a never-ending mane. To maintain soft volume, use a styling foam like the ultra-nourishing Joico JoiWhip Firm-Hold Design Foam ($21).
Brushed-Out Curls
Thandie Newton’s gorgeous brushed-out ringlets show that thick, shoulder-length hair can have the appearance of loads of length. Coarse coils lend natural volume to this look. To bring out the bests of textured tresses, SheaMoisture Manuka Honey & Yogurt Hydrate + Repair Multi-Action Leave-In ($11) post-wash.
’60s Mod Waves
Scarlett Johansson’s lob gets its mod ’60s look from the bumped-up crown. Her hair is parted down the center in the front and then brushed straight back and teased slightly upward. To keep this style in place, use a flexible hairspray like Bumble and bumble Spray de Mode Flexible Hold Hairspray ($32).
Vintage Curls
Rose Byrne’s slicked-down side part erupts into an explosion of curls. The contrast between those two textures gives off a vintage vibe. Comb a strong hold gel through the areas you’d like to keep locked in place to recreate the look yourself. We love Kenra Styling Gel 17 ($17).
Barrel-Curled Ends
For another take on classic red carpet glam, we have Megan Thee Stallion’s glossy black barrel curls. Since they are fuller on the bottom than on top, they especially complement heart, square, and diamond face shapes. We love how she’s paired this style with simple stud earrings, a smoky eye, and lined lips for full glamour.
Curtain Fringe
If you’re looking for a low-maintenance way to change up your look, Carey Mulligan’s curtain bangs are it. They’re parted down the middle to frame the brow area and then trickle down to her shoulders in choppy layers for a sort of polished shag style. Sprinkle bangs with some dry shampoo to absorb any excess grease, which will keep them light and lifted.
Finger-Waved Edges
Logan Browning’s twist-out, which features subtle finger waves along the front edges of her hair, plays up old-school glamour. Meanwhile, a slick crown paired with loose curls softens her angular jawline. Keep The Doux Big Poppa Define Gel ($16) on hand if you’re interested in sporting this style.
Wavy A-Line
Taylor Swift’s side-swept ’80s bangs give way to an artfully disheveled bob that just grazes the shoulders. Tons of choppy layers help add dimension, while the imperfect bangs help create a bed-head illusion. It gives the traditional A-line cut a modern-day makeover.
Accessorized Lob
Lucy Hale’s sleek, straight bob is the perfect match for a statement-making, gold-bauble headband. We can’t help but notice how her angled cut echoes her jawline, creating the perfect framing effect. For a smooth, glossy finish, top your style off with Kiehl’s Silk Groom Serum ($18).
Shag With Bangs
Constance Wu’s choppy bangs and waves have an edgy, rockstar vibe when paired with a glossy nude lip and smoky eyeshadow. However, unlike shags of decades past, this modern version works in layering that is more subtle, creating a softer effect.
Sombré Bob
Chrissy Teigen’s flowing bob features a subtle ombré that moves from dark brown at the roots to toasted caramel at the ends. Along with a slight wave, the coloring creates movement and depth in a shorter style.
Mermaid Waves
Margot Robbie’s tighter wave pattern creates a mermaid-esque look that almost appears wet without being greasy or loaded-down with gel. Her butter blonde with shadowed root especially suits this beachy look. To keep color fresh, wash once a week with dpHUE Cool Blonde ($26)
Piece-y Fringe
Rashida Jones’ long layers work beautifully with her piece-y, straight-across bangs. To style straight bangs while keeping the rest of your strands wavy, blow-dry them using a rounded brush like the EX2 Small Round Brush ($36).
Braided Bob
Amandla Stenberg’s braided bob is so chic and fresh. We love how it tucks up under her chin for a modern silhouette. It’s proof that you absolutely do not need super long hair for a statement-making braided look.
Flipped-Out Ends
Another way to style a shoulder-length lob is with symmetrical barrettes near the temples, à la Millie Bobby Brown. Flipped-out ends and ear jewelry are what make this fun and flirty look.
Tousled Shag
Eiza Gonzalez rocks a playful, sexy shag with a loose curl pattern and longish bangs. To enhance curls and manage frizz, apply Moroccanoil Curl Defining Cream ($34) to damp hair and diffuse to dry.
Kinky Curly Lob
Strategic layers take the bulk out of curls and help them fall in a flattering way without removing volume. Influencer Keke J’s lush ringlets—bangs included—are trimmed to perfect face-framing effect. Use a hydrating mask like Briogeo Don’t Despair, Repair Deep Conditioning Hair Mask ($38) to keep curls moisturized.
Sleek Waves
Zoey Deutch’s lob features a soft wave pattern that highlights her cheekbones. The lack of visible layers creates a polished appearance while simultaneously removing some of the heaviness that comes with thick hair. It’s a versatile look that transitions well from day to night.
Curly Mullet
Mullets are back, baby! However, unlike its predecessor, this modern take is sexy and softer thanks to curly texture and gradual layering. Bangs add a nice face-framing touch while a tousled finish gives off cool-girl vibes.
Tucked Locs
Halle Bailey, one-half of the duo Chloe x Halle, shows us how to fake medium-length hair by tucking up her locs into a beautiful, twisted style. This is like the cousin of the hair tuck in which you create the illusion of a lob by slipping the ends of your hair into your coat or sweater. Refresh this style with a spritz of Locsanity Rosewater & Peppermint Daily Moisturizing Spray ($25).
Razored Layers
Choppy, razored layers create movement and depth on otherwise straight, thick hair. We are obsessed with Margaret Zhang’s punk fringe that hangs over her eyes. To recreate her high-wattage shine, try the Amika Glass Action Hydrating Hair Oil ($29).
Lifted Crown
This is such a clever way to style medium-length hair for an event while leaving it down. It also works to elongate a rounder face shape. To copy Florence Pugh’s lifted crown, brush through some gel while parting the hair to one side. Finish off with a generous coat of hairspray.
Dip-Dyed Lob
Winnie Harlow’s elegant lob has a slight dip-dyed effect thanks to chestnut ends that complement her nearly black roots and mid-lengths. Even though Harlow’s hair is styled straight, this length is incredibly versatile and offers myriad styling options.
Supersized Curls
Big, voluminous curls like Iman’s are a classic for thick, medium-length hair. Gilded caramel highlights add dimension to her brunette locks and brighten her complexion.
Corkscrew Curls
Viola Davis has the most perfect head full of ringlets. She’s also a true testament to the power of curly bangs. While they can be tricky to style, they are so worth it in the end. To replicate Davis’s ‘do, gradual layers are a must. Not only will they shape this cut but they will also help to define curls.
Retro Waves
There’s more than one way to wear wavy hair. Kristen Bell’s sleek retro waves are the antithesis to the tousled beach variety, making them perfect for a night out. Distribute hair with half laid over your shoulder and the remaining behind.
Half-Up, Half-Down Bantu Knots
With a thick mid-length mane, you have a lot of styling options simply because you have more hair to work with. Cardi B gets the best of both worlds with a half-up, half-down style that features Bantu knots. They add a cool twist—literally—an otherwise sleek-straight style.
If you’ve got textured tresses and are looking for a low-maintenance hairdo that also prevents damage, try a protective style. Thick, shoulder-length hair offers tons of options.
Half-Up, Half-Down Bantu Knots
With a thick mid-length mane, you have a lot of styling options simply because you have more hair to work with. Cardi B gets the best of both worlds with a half-up, half-down style that features Bantu knots. They add a cool twist—literally—an otherwise sleek-straight style.
If you’ve got textured tresses and are looking for a low-maintenance hairdo that also prevents damage, try a protective style. Thick, shoulder-length hair offers tons of options.
Retro Lob
An asymmetrical cut or style makes it easy to go shorter without taking off all or even most of your length. Jessica Chastain’s vibrant auburn bob hits at about the nape of the neck on one side while hovering over the shoulder on the other.
Side-Swept Curls
Sandra Oh’s pinned back curls have a somewhat updated ’80s vibe. If your hair is not naturally curly, you can use a larger barrel curling iron to get that big, full look. Lock in place with a generous dose of your hairspray of choice.
Rounded Afro
Angela Bassett’s ultra curly natural hair has been arranged into a rounded silhouette with a center part. Sometimes, when it comes to hair, bigger really is better. Paired with dangling statement earrings, this style is Disco-era chic made modern.
Relaxed Lob
Admirers of the more nonchalant beauty look will find a lot to love here. Lea Seydoux’s shiny, relaxed layers are low maintenance if you already have thick hair with a slight natural wave. But even if you have stick-straight strands you can still achieve undulating texture.
