10 Stunning Layered Shaggy Haircuts for Effortless Style and Movement

Seeking a versatile hairstyle that combines effortless appeal with a touch of edge? A layered shaggy haircut might be exactly what you need. Celebrity hairstylist Irinel de León describes this trending style as “the perfect combination of effortless, edgy, and playful all at once. Whether styled sleek, tousled, or full-on curly, it always gives off that chic, undone vibe,” she explains. “I love how it can be customized to flatter different textures and face shapes while giving hair incredible movement.”

What makes the layered shag particularly appealing is how it enhances your hair’s natural texture, simplifying daily styling routines. “The key is using the right product for your hair type, whether it’s a volumizing spray for fine hair or a curl cream for definition,” de León advises. From Emma D’Arcy’s androgynous cropped shag to Ciara’s voluminous ’70s-inspired look, there’s a shaggy haircut variation that can be tailored to complement any style preference and gender expression.

1. Tousled Curls: Embrace Natural Bounce

For curly-haired individuals like singer Towa Bird, hydration is essential. De León recommends applying a curl-enhancing mousse to maintain shape without weighing down each beautiful ringlet. This approach creates a perfectly tousled look that appears effortlessly styled while showcasing your natural texture.

2. ’70s Flair: Disco-Inspired Volume

Coiled curls paired with eyelash-grazing bangs and a glossy finish create a nostalgic nod to ’70s disco glamour. For this show-stopping style, de León suggests combining a moisturizing leave-in cream with a curl-defining gel before diffusing. The result is a head-turning shag that captures vintage appeal with modern sensibility.

3. Slick Crop: Minimalist Edge

Emma D’Arcy’s short, slicked-back shag demonstrates how this versatile cut can highlight strong bone structure. The beauty of this variation lies in its simplicity—styling requires just a small amount of pomade worked through with your fingers. It’s perfect for those who appreciate low-maintenance styles with maximum impact.

4. Piecey Texture: Face-Framing Layers

Jenna Ortega’s fringed, voluminous shag beautifully complements her diamond-shaped face. “With a narrow forehead and jawline, I like to add width at the cheekbones by layering strategically,” explains de León. “A soft fringe or voluminous crown can create harmony.” This thoughtfully crafted approach ensures the cut enhances your unique facial features.

5. ’90s Heartthrob: Nostalgic Appeal

Channel the leading characters from classic ’90s romantic comedies with this short, piece-y shag. This particular variation works best with straight hair that’s been lightly tousled using a quality texturizing spray. The result is a charming, nostalgic style that feels both retro and contemporary.

6. Pin-Straight Platinum: Sleek Sophistication

Rihanna demonstrates that even minimalist hairstyles can exude remarkable coolness with her gleaming platinum strands and precise blunt fringe. For those with heart-shaped faces similar to RiRi’s, de León recommends creating balance with “longer layers around the chin” complemented by bangs or a sweeping side part for facial harmony.

7. Natural Waves: Effortless Movement

I Saw the TV Glow star Jack Haven embraces their natural waves with a choppy shag featuring multiple layers. This incredibly low-maintenance style works wonderfully with natural waves. According to de León, all it requires is “a quick scrunch, diffuse, and go!” Perfect for busy individuals who still want a stylish, textured look.

8. Defined Coils: Structured Volume

“A layered shag can define and shape curls beautifully,” de León notes regarding Kerry Washington’s full, fluffed-out coils. “I love using a leave-in conditioner followed by a lightweight gel or cream, then diffusing to enhance volume without frizz.” This approach creates a stunning, voluminous style while maintaining definition and minimizing unwanted frizz.

9. Shaggy Clavicut: Versatile Mid-Length

The clavicut offers an ideal middle ground between long hair and a bob, providing remarkable versatility with minimal maintenance. Dianna Agron enhances this balanced length with feathered layers and undone curls, a look you can easily recreate using a flat iron. This option works beautifully for those wanting movement without committing to a shorter style.

10. Stylized Shullet: Bold Statement

For those seeking an edgier option, consider the shullet—a contemporary blend of shag and mullet styles that instantly delivers ’90s-inspired attitude. Apply a texturizing gel to create definition and ensure each strand stays perfectly placed. This bold variation makes a confident style statement while maintaining the shag’s signature textured appeal.