Are you looking for a haircut that combines boldness, texture, and a bit of edge? The pixie shag haircut might be just the style you need. This chic and playful haircut is making waves in 2024 with its versatility and effortlessly cool vibe. Whether you have fine hair, thick hair, or curly or straight locks, the pixie shag can be tailored to suit your needs. From youthful, modern looks to more refined styles perfect for older women, this haircut works wonders for all ages, including those over 50.
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the pixie shag haircut, from how to style it to choosing the right length and texture for your face shape. We’ll even dive into the hottest trends for 2024, DIY styling tips, and some celebrity inspiration to guide your new look. Let’s jump in and discover why the pixie shag is the haircut you won’t want to miss!
What Is a Pixie Shag Haircut?
The pixie shag haircut is a blend of two iconic styles: the pixie cut and the shag. This hybrid style combines the short, cropped layers of a pixie with the textured, feathered layers of a shag. The result is a look that’s both edgy and soft, perfect for those who want a low-maintenance, yet fashion-forward hairstyle. It suits a wide variety of hair types, whether you have fine, thick, curly, or straight hair.
To maintain this haircut’s volume and shape, consider using styling products like a lightweight mousse (e.g., Moroccanoil Volumizing Mousse) for volume and a texture spray (e.g., Ouai Texturizing Spray) to enhance the layers.
Why the Pixie Shag Is Trending in 2024
The pixie shag haircut 2024 is all about embracing individuality and natural texture. In 2024, we’re seeing a resurgence of retro-inspired looks with a modern twist, and the pixie shag fits right in. Its versatility allows women of all ages to customize the cut to their liking, whether they prefer a more polished or messy, carefree style. It’s a favorite among those who want an effortlessly cool look without too much maintenance.
For styling, try using a matte clay (like Bumble and Bumble Sumotech) to add definition and texture while keeping the look natural.
Classic Pixie Shag vs. Modern Pixie Shag
The classic pixie shag was all about soft layers and subtle volume, but the modern pixie shag takes things up a notch. In today’s version, we’re seeing more texture, bolder bangs, and even undercut details for added edge. While the classic version works well for those seeking a more feminine look, the modern pixie shag suits women who love a bolder, more daring vibe.
To keep this look modern, use a styling cream like Kevin Murphy Free Hold to add shine and hold to your layers without weighing them down.
Who Should Try the Pixie Shag Haircut?
The pixie shag haircut is ideal for anyone looking for a versatile, low-maintenance hairstyle. It’s perfect for women with a variety of face shapes, including oval, heart-shaped, and round faces. This cut works especially well for those who enjoy texture and volume in their hair. However, if you prefer super sleek, straight styles, this may not be the best fit for you.
If you decide to try this cut, invest in a sea salt spray like TIGI Catwalk Texturizing Salt Spray to enhance the layers and natural texture.
How to Choose the Right Length for a Pixie Shag
When it comes to choosing the right length for your pixie shag haircut, it’s all about balance. For those with finer hair, a slightly longer pixie shag can create the illusion of fuller locks, while those with thicker hair may benefit from a shorter cut to remove some bulk. If you’re uncertain, consult with a stylist to determine the ideal length that will suit your face shape and hair type.
For styling, use a volumizing mousse like Living Proof Full Thickening Mousse to add body, especially if your hair tends to be flat.
Pixie Shag for Fine Hair: Volume and Texture Solutions
The pixie shag haircut for fine hair can work wonders by adding much-needed volume and texture. The choppy, layered cut gives the illusion of thicker hair, making it ideal for those with finer strands. Opt for shorter layers around the crown to add height, and longer, wispy bangs to frame the face. This style suits women of all ages, especially those seeking a youthful, voluminous look.
For styling, consider using a thickening spray such as Oribe Maximista Thickening Spray, which can help add body and hold to fine hair while keeping it light.
Best Pixie Shag Styles for Thick Hair
For those with thick hair, the pixie shag haircut helps reduce bulk while maintaining texture. The key to making this style work for thick hair is to thin out the layers with razoring techniques. This creates movement and lightness without sacrificing the signature volume of the cut. If you prefer a more structured look, ask your stylist to incorporate undercuts or shaved sides to complement the shaggy layers.
To manage thick hair, use a smoothing serum like Kerastase Elixir Ultime L’Huile Original Hair Oil, which helps control frizz and add shine without weighing down the hair.
Textured Layers in a Pixie Shag: The Secret to Effortless Style
The secret to an effortlessly chic pixie shag haircut lies in the textured layers. These layers create a soft, undone look that’s full of movement. This style is perfect for those who love a natural, tousled appearance. Whether you have straight, wavy, or curly hair, textured layers can enhance your hair’s natural volume and give you that lived-in, carefree vibe.
To style these layers, use a texture-enhancing product like Redken Rough Paste 12, which helps define layers and hold the shape without a stiff finish.
Curly Pixie Shag: Embrace Your Natural Texture
A curly pixie shag haircut is perfect for those with natural curls. This cut allows curls to maintain their bounce and shape while giving them an edgy, structured frame. The shorter layers on top help create volume, while longer, defined curls around the face soften the look. It’s ideal for women who want to embrace their curls without dealing with excessive length and bulk.
For styling, use a curl cream like DevaCurl SuperCream Coconut Curl Styler to define and hydrate curls while preventing frizz.
How to Style a Wavy Pixie Shag
The wavy pixie shag haircut is all about effortless movement and texture. This style works beautifully for those with natural waves, as the layers enhance the wave pattern while maintaining volume. For a more relaxed, beachy vibe, let your waves air dry and use a sea salt spray. This cut suits those with an oval or heart-shaped face, providing balance and structure without looking too polished.
To enhance waves, use Ouai Wave Spray, which adds texture and definition without weighing down the hair.
Edgy Pixie Shag with Undercut Details
For a bolder, more daring look, the pixie shag haircut with an undercut is a fantastic option. The undercut gives the traditional shag an edgy, rebellious twist. This cut is ideal for those who want to add an element of surprise and create contrast between the short sides and the longer, textured layers on top. It’s a great choice for women who want to stand out and aren’t afraid to take risks with their hair.
For styling, use a pomade like Layrite Original Pomade to define the undercut and add shine to the longer layers.
Soft Pixie Shag with Wispy Bangs
The soft pixie shag haircut with wispy bangs is a delicate and feminine take on this otherwise edgy cut. The light, feathery bangs soften the face, making this style perfect for women who want a more romantic, low-maintenance look. This cut works well for women of all ages, including those over 50 who prefer a shorter, youthful style without the sharpness of a traditional pixie.
For a soft finish, use a lightweight finishing spray like Aveda Air Control Light Hold Hair Spray to keep the layers in place while maintaining movement.
Messy Pixie Shag for a Casual, Cool Look
The messy pixie shag haircut is a go-to style for women who love a carefree, effortless look. The beauty of this cut is in its intentional messiness, with uneven, choppy layers that give it a relaxed, “just rolled out of bed” vibe. This look works well for women with all hair types, especially those with wavy or curly hair, and is perfect for anyone who wants an easy-to-style, low-maintenance option.
To style, use a texturizing spray like Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe Texturizing Sea Salt Spray for that tousled, beachy look without the crunch.
Sleek Pixie Shag: Polished and Professional
The sleek pixie shag haircut offers a more polished version of the typical shag. It’s ideal for women who want to maintain a professional appearance while still enjoying the trendy, textured layers of a pixie shag. The sleek version works particularly well for straight hair, creating a sophisticated, smooth look without losing the style’s signature edginess.
For a smooth finish, use a flat iron and apply a straightening serum like John Frieda Frizz Ease Original Serum to eliminate frizz and add shine.
Pixie Shag with Choppy Bangs: Add Some Edge
The pixie shag with choppy bangs adds a bold twist to the classic style, perfect for those who want to make a statement. The uneven, choppy bangs give this cut a punk-inspired edge, making it an excellent choice for women who like to stand out. This style works well on both straight and wavy hair and is especially suited for those with angular or heart-shaped faces.
To style choppy bangs, use a lightweight wax like TIGI Bed Head Manipulator to add texture and hold without stiffness.
Colored Pixie Shag: Adding Bold Hues to Your Style
If you’re looking to make your pixie shag haircut even more eye-catching, adding bold hair color is the way to go. Whether you opt for electric blues, fiery reds, or pastel pinks, a pop of color can transform this already dynamic cut into something truly unique. This style works well for women who love to experiment with their look and want a hairstyle that reflects their personality.
For maintaining vibrant color, use color-protecting products like Matrix Total Results Keep Me Vivid Shampoo to keep your color looking fresh.
Pixie Shag with Balayage: Subtle Dimension for a Soft Look
The pixie shag haircut with balayage offers a more subtle, sophisticated approach to hair coloring. Balayage adds dimension and depth to the layers, giving the cut a sun-kissed, natural look. This style works particularly well for those with wavy or curly hair, as the highlights enhance the movement of the layers.
To maintain balayage highlights, use a sulfate-free shampoo like Pureology Hydrate Shampoo to preserve color and moisture.
How to Maintain the Pixie Shag Haircut: Best Tips
Maintaining a pixie shag haircut is relatively low maintenance, but regular trims are necessary to keep the layers looking fresh and the shape intact. Depending on the texture of your hair, you’ll want to schedule trims every 4-6 weeks. For those with finer hair, using volumizing products like Moroccanoil Root Boost can help maintain volume and lift, while those with thicker hair might prefer smoothing creams to keep frizz at bay.
Make sure to use a good quality conditioner, such as Olaplex No.5 Bond Maintenance Conditioner, to keep your hair healthy and hydrated between cuts.
Hair Products for Pixie Shag Styling: Top Recommendations
Styling a pixie shag haircut can be fun and versatile, but it’s important to have the right products on hand. For volume, use a mousse like Living Proof Full Dry Volume Blast. For texture, a sea salt spray such as Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray will enhance the natural texture of the layers. To keep everything in place, finish with a flexible hold hairspray like L’Oréal Elnett Satin Hairspray.
When styling, don’t forget heat protection products like Tresemmé Heat Tamer Spray to avoid damage from hot tools.
Pixie Shag for Round Faces: Enhance Your Features
For women with round faces, the pixie shag haircut works beautifully to add dimension and structure. The key to this cut for round faces is to keep the layers longer at the crown and incorporate side-swept bangs. This elongates the face and creates the illusion of sharper angles. It’s a flattering option for those with soft, rounded features.
Use a volumizing mousse like Big Sexy Hair Root Pump to give the crown more height and balance out the roundness of the face.
Pixie Shag for Oval Faces: Frame Your Face Perfectly
Women with oval faces are fortunate, as nearly any version of the pixie shag haircut will flatter their features. A classic pixie shag with soft, textured layers and bangs will enhance their face shape without overwhelming it. Whether you opt for longer or shorter layers, the shag’s versatility ensures that it will work with your natural features.
To style, use a lightweight mousse like Paul Mitchell Extra Body Sculpting Foam to keep layers defined without weighing them down.
Growing Out a Pixie Shag: Transition Tips
Growing out a pixie shag haircut can be tricky, but with a few transition tips, you can keep your hair looking stylish throughout the process. One key tip is to get regular trims to maintain the shape as it grows, focusing on keeping the layers around the crown in check. As your hair grows, consider using a styling cream like Bumble and Bumble Grooming Creme to smooth the layers and avoid awkward growth phases.
Be patient and embrace the evolving look by adding fun accessories like headbands or scarves to style your hair during the grow-out period.
Celebrities Rocking the Pixie Shag Haircut
The pixie shag haircut has become a go-to style for many celebrities. Stars like Miley Cyrus, Zoë Kravitz, and Halle Berry have all embraced this edgy look, showcasing its versatility on the red carpet and in everyday life. Whether worn sleek and polished or messy and tousled, the pixie shag is a favorite among style icons for its bold, yet effortless appearance.
To achieve a celebrity-worthy look, use a finishing spray like Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray to give the layers definition and body.
Conclusion
The pixie shag haircut offers a bold, stylish, and versatile option for women of all ages and hair types. Whether you prefer a sleek and polished look or a tousled, messy vibe, the pixie shag can be tailored to suit your personality and lifestyle. With its textured layers and edgy flair, it’s no surprise that this haircut is trending in 2024. If you’re ready for a new look, consider the pixie shag—it’s a hairstyle that’s both fashionable and low-maintenance. Have you tried the pixie shag, or are you thinking of taking the plunge? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
