The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Haircut for Your Face Shape

When a client walks into Empire Barbershop, one of the first things we assess before reaching for the clippers is their face shape.

While bringing in a reference photo — whether it's a celebrity fade or a sleek pompadour — can be helpful, the true art of barbering lies in personalization. The most flattering haircut is the one that complements your unique features, bone structure, and overall style.

At Empire Barbershop, we don’t just follow trends — we tailor each cut to the individual. And that precision starts with understanding the face shape in front of us.

Here’s how we approach it — and how you can choose the right cut based on your face shape.

Why Face Shape Matters in Barbering

Your face shape has a big impact on how a haircut will look on you. A style that looks great on one person might not work the same way on someone else — just because their face shape is different.

That’s why barbers are trained to look closely at the details. We know:

• Where to add height – to give the style more shape and dimension

• Where to keep it short – for a clean, balanced, and structured appearance

• How to even out proportions – so the haircut flatters your overall face shape

• Which features to highlight – and which ones to subtly soften for a more polished look

These small adjustments make a big difference. It’s how we make sure every cut works for you, not just the trend.

Figuring Out Your Face Shape (A Quick Guide)

If you’re uncertain about your face shape, start by examining your features in a mirror or taking a front-facing selfie. Ask yourself the following:

• Is your face longer than it is wide?

• Are your jawline and forehead similar in width?

• Is your chin more rounded or defined?

From there, you’ll likely fall into one of these categories: oval, square, round, rectangular (oblong), heart, or diamond.

1. Oval Face – The Versatile Shape

Traits: Your face is slightly longer than it is wide, with a soft jawline and balanced proportions.
Best Haircuts:

• Almost any style works well for you.

• Mid to high fades with textured tops.

• Slick backs, pompadours, or buzz cuts.

Tip: Avoid heavy fringes that cover your forehead, as they can disrupt the natural balance of your face.

2. Square Face – The Strong Jawline

Traits: Your forehead and jawline are about the same width, with a defined, angular jaw.
Best Haircuts:

• Skin fades or undercuts to highlight your strong jawline.

• Side parts or textured crops to add structure.

• Clean lines to emphasize the sharpness of your features.

Tip: Keep the sides shorter to draw attention to your strong jaw and angular features.

3. Round Face – The Soft Contours

Traits: Your face is about as wide as it is long, with a rounded jaw and full cheeks.
Best Haircuts:

• High fades with volume on top to elongate your face.

• Faux hawks or angular fringe for added definition.

• Asymmetrical styles to create more edge.

Tip: Focus on adding height and structure on top to give the illusion of a longer face.

4. Rectangular (Oblong) Face – The Long Look

Traits: Your face is longer than it is wide, with similar width at the temples and jawline.
Best Haircuts:

• Side parts or curtain fringes that soften the length.

• Mid-length styles that add width and balance.

• Layered cuts with subtle texture for a more balanced look.

Tip: Keep the top of your hair more modest in height to avoid making your face appear even longer.

5. Heart-Shaped Face – The Upside-Down Triangle

Traits: Your forehead is wide, and your chin and jaw are narrower.
Best Haircuts:

• Medium-length styles with movement and flow.

• Side-swept fringe or part to balance the wider forehead.

• Styles that add volume near the jaw to soften the lower face.

Tip: Soften the upper part of your face while adding volume to the lower half for more balance.

6. Diamond Face – The Angular Look

Traits: Your forehead and chin are narrow, with prominent cheekbones.
Best Haircuts:

• Textured crops or fringes to minimize width at the cheeks.

• Side-swept styles with movement to soften the angles.

• Medium-length or messy styles to create balance and flow.

Tip: Avoid tight fades that may emphasize the sharp angles of your face.

Let Your Barber Be Your Guide

We understand that choosing the right haircut can be a lot to think about, but we’re here to make it simple and enjoyable. At Empire Barbershop, we take the time to get to know your face shape, hair texture, and style goals before recommending a cut. We’ll share our expert advice, guide you through the options, and create a customized look that flatters your unique features, leaving you feeling confident and ready to take on the day.

Invest in your style. Stay sharp. And always wear your confidence with pride.

Book your next haircut at Empire Barbershop and experience the difference of professional-level grooming.