Oval face shapes are like the golden ticket in the world of hairstyles versatile, adaptable, and effortlessly chic. Whether you’re craving a bold, edgy cut or something soft and romantic, this face shape can pull off just about anything with ease. Celebrity stylist Dimitris Giannetos, known for working with A-listers, explains that oval faces are the perfect canvas for experimenting with creative cuts, making them a dream for stylists and hair enthusiasts alike.
The oval face is lovely for its balanced proportions slightly longer than wide, with a soft curved jawline and forehead approximating the same width as the chin. It provides you with unlimited options, ranging from short pixies to effortless waves. Having so many options, however, can be daunting, particularly if trends change quickly. Which is why we’ve assembled the most flattering hairstyles for oval faces along with insider secrets on how to get your look to work for you.
In this guide, we’ll dive into nine stunning hairstyles that are trending in 2025, each tailored to highlight the natural beauty of oval faces. From mermaid waves to wispy bangs, these looks are inspired by celebrities and backed by stylists like Giannetos and Beau Dieda. Whether you’re planning a salon visit or just daydreaming about a fresh style, these ideas will spark inspiration and make your next hair moment unforgettable.
1. Mermaid Waves: Effortless and Romantic
Mermaid waves are the ultimate romantic, ethereal hair that looks as if it’s been kissed by the sea. Dimitris Giannetos adores this haircut on oval faces because long layers are softening to facial contours without lengthening the face. It’s a look that is both fashion-forward and ageless, ideal for those who need a hairstyle that looks effortless but refined.
What makes mermaid waves stand out is that they are so versatile. For any occasion, whether you’re going out for a night or just grabbing coffee with friends, these waves are perfect. You can turn the drama up with tighter curls for a night out or go loose and beachy for an informal outing. To achieve this look at home, take a large-barrel curling iron and top it off with a texturizing spray for that effortless, undone look that emphasizes your cheekbones and provides a youthful sheen.
This is how to make mermaid waves become your look:
- Select the appropriate tools: A 1.5-inch curl wand or deep wave iron, such as the Bed Head Wave Artist ($21.49 on Amazon, 4.3 out of 60,151 reviews), produces gorgeous waves with little effort.
- Prepare your locks: Use a heat protector to avoid damage and provide long-lasting effects.
- Style in a snap: Divide your hair, curl away from your face, and brush gently for a subtle, natural finish.
- Finish strong: A light spritz of texturizing spray gives volume and keeps your waves in style all day.
The look is wonderful for oval faces since it adds width across your side faces, making your face even more naturally symmetrical. And it’s low-maintenance enough for hectic mornings but glamorous enough to turn heads at any affair.
2. Side-Parted Pixie: Bold and Confident
For the person who adores a bold, low-maintenance style, the side-parted pixie cut is revolutionizing. Beau Dieda credits the cut with giving asymmetry and depth, hence making one of the best options for oval faces. The side-swept bangs break up the face so that it never appears too long and slim.
This sassy, sophisticated look is all about owning up to your features with a little bit of attitude. Consider Sabrina Elba, for example, who has this look with a smooth finish which is perfect for boardroom sessions and clubbing. To get, apply a smoothing serum and a fine comb to get a neat, classy look. The good thing is that it requires minimum maintenance, which is just fine for someone who wishes to get styled up without wasting hours of their time out of their busy schedule styling their hair.
Why opt for a side-parted pixie? Some pros are enumerated below:
- Low maintenance: A quick comb-through and treatment with serum will do the trick.
- Versatile styling: Tidy it up for black-tie events or messy for laid-back feels.
- Feature-enhancing: Side part sits well on your eyes and cheekbones.
- Confidence booster: This haircut screams self-assurance, perfect for strong personalities.
If you’re considering a shorter style, the side-parted pixie is a fantastic way to showcase your individuality while keeping things practical and stylish.
3. Graduated Bob: Sophisticated and Structured
The graduated bob or A-line bob is the ideal combination of structure and softness for oval face shapes. This is a favorite of both Giannetos and Dieda for its face-framing ability and symmetry increase. Red-carpet stars such as Lily Collins have made this style, which falls to the chin, a red-carpet staple, which speaks volumes about its enduring quality.
This bob is so adaptable that you can switch from sleek, polished appearances to wavy, loose textures based on your mood. The trick to its sharp edges is to trim it regularly, but it’s a chore well worth the effort for an appearance that’s professional but also fun. Tame back the appearance with strong accessories such as big earrings to give your appearance some added oomph and glamour.
This is how to do a graduated bob:
- Keep it sharp: Trim every 6-8 weeks to keep the shape of the cut.
- Style with flexibility: Flat iron for sleek look or use a curling wand for loose waves.
- Accessories: Top off the look with chunky earrings or a headband.
- Care for your coiffure: Apply heat protectant to keep your locks from becoming damaged and lackluster.
The graduated bob is also a fantastic option for oval faces as it provides shape without enveloping your own face, and is a wedding guest or office-ready favorite.
4. Flowing Curtain Bangs: Timeless and Flattering
Curtain bangs are a classic favorite, and rightly so because they are flattering on everyone and never fall out of fashion. Kelly Rowland’s beautiful take on this style demonstrates how such bangs can temper an oval face and draw out the cheekbones. Beau Dieda notes that their soft sweep over the brow disrupts the face’s length, allowing it to acquire a well-proportioned, sleek appearance.
Curtain bangs are also low maintenance, making them ideal for hectic lives. Just grab a blow dryer and a round brush, and you’ve got the face-framing swoop that characterizes curtain bangs. If you want added texture, a light spray of hairspray can provide hold and a hint of retro chic. With wavy, shoulder-length hair or an updo, curtain bangs add depth and effortless charm.
Why you should give curtain bangs a go:
- Low upkeep: Blow-dry and brush, and you’re good to go.
- Versatile: Suitable for loose hair, ponytails, or updo for all occasions.
- Face-framing effect: Accentuates your cheekbones and eyes for a brightening finish.
- Low commitment: Bangs will grow out nicely in case you want to switch it up in the future.
For round faces, curtain bangs are a great way of introducing a touch of romance without sacrificing your modern feel.
5. Subtle Shag: Edgy and Voluminous
If you’re craving a hairstyle with a bit of edge and tons of texture, the subtle shag is your answer. Popularized by stars like Emma Chamberlain, this cut features wispy layers that add width and movement, making it ideal for oval faces. Beau Dieda loves how this style brings a playful, rock-and-roll vibe without sacrificing practicality.
The discreet shag is all about that “undone” vibe that’s totally awesome. To style, spray a texturizing spray and rough out the layers with your fingers for a lived-in look. It’s great for everything from coffee shop dates to concerts, with just enough edginess and ease that’s hard to beat.
Here’s how to rock the discreet shag:
- Meeting texture halfway: Spritz a texturizing spray to add some depth to the layered, piece-y look.
- Low-maintenance allure: The cut loves its effortless, piece-y glamour.
- Emphasize features: The pieces caress your eyes and jawline.
- Versatile for any occasion: Both perfect for low-key, daily affairs and attention-grabbing, edgy events.
The low-maintenance shag is a wonderful option for oval face shapes seeking to add volume and character to their everyday look.
6. Blunt Bob: Sleek and Contemporary
For a chic, edgy look that screams sophistication, the blunt bob is a staple style. Dimitris Giannetos credits its power to accentuate an oval face’s own symmetry, such as Ciara’s ash-blonde version. The haircut is all clean lines and high shine, making it ideal for those who adore a sleek look.
The blunt bob is very versatile, which makes it appropriate for bold makeup for a dramatic look or minimalist, natural makeup for daily wear. To achieve a sleek look, blow-dry the hair with a flat iron and then lightly finish with serum to control flyaways. Being low-maintenance, it is perfect for busy lifestyles, and its sharp shape guarantees that you’re always on point.
Advantages of the blunt bob are:
- Timeless chic: Its sleek shape never ages.
- Low maintenance: A quick flat-ironing session keeps it tidy.
- Face-flattering: Balances and accentuates your best features.
- Low maintenance: Needs fewer trims than layered hair.
For oval faces, blunt bob gives a classy, sophisticated appearance that can travel anywhere, from the workplace to an evening out.
7. Long Layers: Elegant and Timeless
Long layers are a timeless classic that never fades on oval faces, adding texture and movement without overpowering your features. The cut, as cut and styled by Keke Palmer, brings a sophisticated, ageless element that is easy to update, says Giannetos. Styled straight or loose waves, long layers provide a go-everywhere style that’s guaranteed to please everyone.
This cut is ideal for someone who doesn’t want to have to do much but still looks great. A leave-in conditioner maintains your hair in its moisturized, glossy condition, and a speedy blow-out or some curling iron action can mess with the attitude. Long layers are best for oval faces since they add movement and softness without changing the facial balance naturally.
This is why long layers are such a great idea:
- Customizable: Style them straight, wavy, or curled depending on your mood.
- Low maintenance: Very low styling needed to get sleek look.
- Feature-enhancing: Frames the face for accentuating your cheekbones and eyes.
- Timeless appeal: Timeless style that is appropriate for all ages and occasions.
Long layers are the choice for oval faces looking for a go-anywhere, chic look that’s low-maintenance.
8. Boyish Pixie: Bold and Spontaneous
The pixie cut boyish is the perfect option for those females who desire a strong, adventurous style that showcases their best features. Greta Lee’s version of the cut is a good example of how it lengthens the eyes and cheekbones, therefore being best for oval face shapes. It is a styling all about attitude and simplicity.
Cutting a boyish pixie is as simple as possible just use a bit of pomade and finger-ruffing to add texture. It’s a sensible weekday cut, but one that makes an impact. Whether you’re off to the office or going out in the evenings, this cut keeps you looking on the ball and confident.
Why a boyish pixie?
- Extremely low maintenance: Needs less styling time.
- Feature-highlighting: Frames your eyes and jawline.
- Playful look: Gives a playful, youthful appearance to your face.
- Strong statement: Great for the one who prefers to make a statement.
For oval-shaped faces, the boyish pixie is a great way to emphasize a bold, effortless style.
9. Full-On Volume: Glamorous and Dramatic
If you’re all about making a statement, full-on volume is the way to go. Yara Shahidi’s voluminous waves show how this style adds width and glamour to an oval face. It’s a bold, dramatic look that’s perfect for those who love turning heads.
To get this look, apply damp hair mousse, blow-dry using a round brush for added volume, and top off with hairspray to lock in the volume. Add a show-stopping headband or earrings for added drama. The best part is, it can be done up for a night out but dressed down for a casual day.
Full-on volume secrets:
- Create lift: Employ a volumizing mousse for ultimate height.
- Keep it there: Hairsprays, such as Living Proof Full Dry Volume & Texture Spray ($36 on Amazon, 4.2 rating based on 3,031 reviews), prevent volume loss.
- Highlight details: The wider width is stunning on oval faces.
- Accessories: Add headbands or earrings for a splash of personality.
Full-on volume is a dramatic option for oval faces that screams confidence and glamour.
Selecting a hairstyle for oval face is a thrilling adventure with endless options. From the classic sweep of mermaid waves to the cheeky snap of a boyish pixie, there’s a style to flatter every personality and way of living. The trick is to love your natural look, wear it with confidence, and have fun with your style.
With the expertise of celebrity stylists such as Dimitris Giannetos and Beau Dieda, and celebrity influence from actresses Kelly Rowland and Emma Chamberlain, you’re set to achieve your next salon trip. With a sleek pixie or glamorous voluminous look, your oval face is the ideal canvas to showcase you.
So, grab these concepts, schedule that appointment, and strut into 2025 with a haircut that makes you invincible. Your ideal look is out there go find it!
10. Wispy Bangs: Want a softer look? Try these bangs here
Wispy bangs offer a delicate, romantic touch that instantly softens your appearance, making them a go-to for oval face shapes. These feather-light bangs, like those famously worn by Bella Hadid, graze the eyelashes, adding a hint of elegance without overwhelming the face. Their airy texture frames the eyes beautifully, enhancing features with a subtle, sophisticated charm. Hairstylist Giannetos praises them for balancing facial proportions, making them ideal for anyone seeking a fresh yet timeless style. They’re low-commitment, perfect for experimenting without a drastic cut.
Styling wispy bangs is effortless, fitting seamlessly into busy routines or special occasions. A round brush and blow-dryer create a gentle curve that hugs the forehead, while a light mist of hairspray locks in the shape without stiffness. Their versatility shines whether paired with a sleek updo or loose waves, adapting to any vibe. Products like ELEFOCUS Clip-on Wispy Bangs ($9.47, 4.0 stars) offer a natural look with easy application, ideal for non-permanent styling. This flexibility makes wispy bangs a favorite for dynamic, face-framing flair.
To keep wispy bangs looking their best, follow these tips:
- Blow-dry with a round brush: Shapes bangs for a soft curve.
- Use light hairspray: Ensures hold without a heavy feel.
- Try clip-ins for ease: Perfect for testing the look commitment-free.
