The Best Haircuts for Men Based on Face Shape

Most men are unsure of the best haircut for their face shape. This often leads to uncertainty and choosing a random haircut that may not necessarily complement their features.

However, with the right knowledge, you can easily determine the perfect haircut for your face shape. This guide cuts through the noise and offers advice on the best men’s haircuts for every face shape.

Before you step into a barber chair, know your face shape. Measure the width of your forehead, cheekbones, and jawline, then compare them to your face length. The major face shapes for men are oval, square, round, oblong/rectangular, diamond, and heart.

The oval face shape is considered the most versatile. The forehead is slightly wider than the jaw, and the face tapers gently at the chin. If you have an oval face, almost any haircut works in your favour.

Best cuts: Textured crop, side part, quiff, slick back, or buzz cut. You can go short on the sides and long on top or keep things neat with a classic taper. Actors like Ryan Gosling and Chris Evans often wear styles that complement an oval face, showing how versatile this face shape can be.

A square face has a strong jawline, broad forehead, and roughly equal width at the forehead and jaw. The goal is to soften those sharp angles while maintaining a masculine look.

Best cuts: Textured quiff, French crop, or a soft fade with length on top. Avoid box cuts or anything that adds width at the sides, as these amplify squareness. An executive haircut works exceptionally well here. Clean, side-parted, and polished, it softens the jaw without sacrificing structure. This cut is a go-to for professional settings and suits square faces naturally because the swept styling draws the eye upward rather than outward.

A round face has full cheeks, a wide forehead, and a soft, curved jawline with no sharp angles. The objective is to create the illusion of length and reduce width.

Best cuts: The aim with a round face is to create more height and structure. Styles such as a quiff or side-swept look work particularly well. Leonardo DiCaprio has worn several hairstyles over the years that add volume on top and create a more balanced appearance. Avoid side parts that are too heavy, full beards without structure, and any cut that ends at the cheekbone level.

An oblong face is longer than it is wide, with a forehead and jaw of similar width. The aim is to add width and break up the vertical length.

Best cuts: Mid fade with textured sides, messy crop, or a side sweep. Volume on the sides, not on top, is your friend here. A fringe or forward-styled top also helps shorten the face’s visual length. Avoid undercuts or high fades that reduce side volume, as they make the face appear even longer.

A diamond face has a narrow forehead, wide cheekbones, and a narrow chin. The widest point is the cheekbones. The goal is to balance the forehead and chin.

Best cuts: Side-swept styles, textured crops with volume at the forehead, or a classic Ivy League. Adding width at the forehead and chin balances the prominent cheekbones. Keep the sides relatively full rather than going for extreme fades.

A heart-shaped face features a broad forehead that tapers to a narrow, pointed chin. The forehead is the dominant feature, so the goal is to draw attention downward.

Best cuts: Textured fringe that covers part of the forehead, side part with longer top, or a loose quiff. Avoid slicked-back styles that expose the full forehead, as these exaggerate the width at the top. Light volume at the chin area, paired with a beard, if possible, adds balance.

Walk into your appointment knowing your face shape. Bring reference photos. Tell your barber not just the style you want, but the look you’re going for. A skilled barber will adjust the technique based on your face shape, hair texture, and lifestyle.

Simply said, the right cut, matched to the right face, does more for your appearance than any grooming product ever will. Learn your shape, pick your cut, and let the results speak.

Voted the UAE’s best men’s spa by the World Spa Awards for three consecutive years (2020, 2021, 2022), 1847 is your destination for a world-class haircut. Our experienced barbers can help you with everything from classic cuts and shaves to modern styling and hair colouring. As soon as you enter, our friendly staff will greet you in a stylish and modern environment, ensuring you receive the best service imaginable. Book your appointment today.