30 Fall Shag Haircut Ideas 2025 That Will Inspire Your Boldest Hair Season Yet

Can we really call it fall when we are not playing with a new haircut?

It has something to do with the freshness in the air, the reappearance of boots, and the light at around 4 PM that makes us want to drop the old and embrace something rough, daring, and a little bit defiant. What about letting our hair talk this year then?

The shag is back this fall but not in the retro-heavy, costume-y way. We’re talking lived-in texture, air-dried cool, and “I didn’t try, but I kind of did” energy. Consider the hair of your dreams, easy layers, curtain bangs, gentle waves… the hair that makes you want to put on a turtleneck and get an oat milk chai.

So, here are five new versions of the fall shag haircut ideas 2025, and each of them is a vibe, but there is one thing in common, they are all created to be worn this season.

Messy Layers with Fringe Energy

This trim is an entire vibe- dishevelled, medium-length layers that flutter around the collarbone, and just a bit grown-out curtain bangs that brush the lashes in the most flirtatious manner. The silhouette adds volume on the crown and gives a gorgeous messy texture without going into the bedhead zone. It is not exactly a wolf cut, but it bites.

This haircut flourishes on dry texture sprays and salt mists. I like R+Co Trophy for a buildable finish that doesn’t weigh things down. With a wide barrel wand, do subtle bends, but not so much that it is overdone. Air-drying with a diffuser works wonders too.

I did something like that last fall and I must say it was liberating. I didn’t have to blow dry every morning, and somehow it always looked cooler on day two. Anh Co Tran, a celebrity stylist once remarked, that shag cuts are like denim you wear them in and they only get better. Couldn’t agree more.

The thing I like about this version is that it provides that undone appearance without appearing unfinished. It’s polished chaos, and it’s pure fall magic.

Short & Shaggy with French Girl Bangs

A shag that is cropped and micro-layered to the cheekbones and has serious Paris-in-the-70s vibes. The bangs are featherlight, and perfectly shattered, which gives softness without covering the face. All of this cut is about elevating: elevating the mood, elevating the frame, elevating you out of boredom with haircuts.

Keep the crown a bit messy—no heavy styling required. I would recommend Davines This Is A Dry Texturizer to add volume and leave strands touchable. Just a spritz of the roots and a fluff with the finger.

This cut is the haircut version of putting on a huge blazer and wearing sneakers to me. Cool, a little undone, and somehow always appropriate. It’s not about looking “perfect,” it’s about looking intentional.

It is particularly fantastic on anyone growing out a pixie or someone who is tired of their bob. The best time to go short, without feeling too vulnerable, is during fall, your scarf game will appreciate it.

Wavy Blonde with Baby Bangs

This is a rebel in disguise, soft, choppy waves that fall right below the shoulders, and baby bangs that make a big statement. It’s blonde, yes, but rooted and real-looking. This shag has an unexpected depth in the combination of structure at the top and looseness at the bottom.

Maintenance-wise, this style asks for hydration—especially if you lighten. I take an oath by the Olaplex No. 8 Moisture Mask once a week and a heat protectant such as IGK Good Behavior prior to diffusing. Baby bangs do need to be trimmed about every 3-4 weeks, but they grow out quite gracefully.

I have always been a bit afraid of micro-bangs personally, but then I tried them. They elongate the face and surprisingly flatter round cheeks. Hair icon Kristin Ess once said that mini-fringes are playful and sharp at the same time, and I completely understand it now.

This is the one that the girl who wants her hair to say something, something cool, something bold, but still soft enough to run out and get a cozy knit sweater and a latte.

Chocolate Waves with Soft Face Layers

These brushed-out waves stacked at the mid-lengths and ends are the perfect choice of anyone who needs a low-key shag. The color is a dimensional chocolate with slight ribbons of light brown that resembles strands that have been faded by the sun. The bangs are a bit longer and they flow into the sides- effortless and super wearable.

I think this type of shag is absurdly simple to style. It works with your natural texture (bonus points for waves or slight curls), and doesn’t require a full arsenal of tools. Only a bit of Amika The Wizard Detangling Primer, a cream, and a diffuser, in case of necessity.

It is the style that I would suggest you to choose in case you do not like statement cuts but still would like to have a seasonal update. The shag-iness is subtle, which makes it timeless. And it grows out beautifully—no awkward phase here.

Sometimes the simplest tweaks have the most impact. It is providing the new season, new energy without the complete makeover.

Layered Elegance with a Modern Twist

Long, layered and just the right amount of shag. This style maintains its length, but creates lift at the crown and soft frames the face. It has a near 90s blowout feel to it–but less tight, less striving. This would be the grown-up cousin of the French bob.

For that effortless movement I swear by running Bumble & Bumble Brilliantine through the ends. It adds shine and separation without crunch. In case you are a fan of round brushes, make sure it is soft- this cut is best when it seems like the wind picked it up in just the right way.

This type of shag is perfect when you want to explore the fashion without going all the way. It is versatile- you can wear it behind your ears or turn it to one side and it still looks new.

The best part? It goes great with all fall attires, including chunky cardigans and leather jackets. A transitional cut for a transitional season.

Pastel Pink Rock Shag

Let’s talk about that pink. This shag is cool without apology, with razor-cut layers and a wispy fringe and dusty pastel color that is nevertheless down-to-earth. The collarbones are brushed by the silhouette and the upper layers give it a grunge-era bounce but somehow the cotton candy color makes it modern.

Color like this is high-maintenance, but oh-so-worth-it. I would always suggest a sulfate free color safe shampoo such as Pureology Hydrate to maintain tones, and a weekly refresh mask such as Overtone Pink for Pastel Hair. Heat tools? Minimal, or use a heat protectant religiously.

This appearance brings me back to the time when I spontaneously dyed my hair rose gold in September, and everything was different. It wasn’t just the color, it was the energy. Ryan Pearl, a stylist once said that pastels soften the rebellion and this look captures that paradox.

It’s bold, yes—but the texture keeps it wearable. Fall isn’t only about burnt tones and cozy sweaters. Sometimes, it’s about surprising yourself.

Long Fiery Copper Shag

This one? Pure fall romance. The rich deep copper is not brassy, but falls in long, loose waves layered sufficiently to provide the body without sacrificing the length. The front is made breezy with wispy bangs cut into it.

Copper tones fade fast, so care here is key. I always lean into Moroccanoil Color Depositing Mask in Copper, which gives me vibrancy and moisture. Cool water wash, avoid sun exposure and a final shine spray is always necessary. Trust me.

The dreamy part of this style is that it does not scream but it speaks. It is deep, comforting, and not overly dramatic enough to be October date night or bookstore run weather. I had one reader tell me that this tone made her feel like a living pumpkin spice latte and I honestly love that about us.

This is the hue of cinnamon air and of falling leaves. It feels like fall.

Effortless Volume in a Medium Shag

This is an excellent illustration of how shape can work the heavy lifting. The length is somewhere in the middle and slightly curved with soft layering that adds bounce but not full glam. The bangs of the curtain are gentle, nearly non-existent, and the waves are brushed out only to provide that natural fullness.

This cut is a blessing to you in case you have naturally wavy or straight hair. Most mornings all you need is a touch of Oribe Matte Waves Texture Lotion scrunch into it and allow it to air dry. To give your roots a lift, use Living Proof Dry Volume Blast.

I personally adore this cut on the in-between hair days, you know, not too long, not too short. It is the type of shag that you can put a beanie over and still look amazing. No wonder it’s trending again.

This one is something easy chic, it is somewhere between minimal and sexy. The definition of quiet confidence.

Short Curly Blonde Shag

Texture is the star here. This is a short shag that is cut to emphasize natural waves and curls and shorter layers are stacked gently to provide movement and shape. The fringe is disheveled and fun and it has the just-rolled-out-of-bed look without the mess.

Curly shags are actually very low maintenance when done correctly. Apply a curl cream such as Pattern Styling Cream or Ouidad Advanced Climate Control as a way to maintain definition and air dry or diffuse. Skip combs—your fingers know best.

I used to believe that my curls had to be tamed. Turns out, they just needed a better cut. This look proves the words of celebrity stylist Shai Amiel, who always says, curly cuts should follow the curl, not fight it.

It is soft, playful, and very flattering, and it is ideal to wear in the fall mornings when you simply want to scrunch and go.

Layered Espresso with Soft Curtain Bangs

This full brunette shag is all soft and flowing. It is a shiny espresso with warm caramel highlights intertwined in the color. Layers begin at the jaw and fall into long wispy ends. The bangs of the curtain open at the perfect point to outline the face as an old-fashioned filter.

This one is the easiest to maintain glossy and swishy, by applying K Kerastase Elixir Ultime Oil and not using too much dry shampoo. The color deserves a satin finish, not powdery buildup.

This cut has a classic feel to it, it is the type of hair that can be worn anywhere: brunch, boardrooms, weekend getaways. It is classic, but not too trendy to be boring.

If you’re someone who wants something current but still wants to feel like you, this shag is the one to ask your stylist for.

Big Curls, Bigger Texture

Here’s one for the curl queens. This voluminous shag combines the daring movement and softness and balances it, and the layered strata allow every wave to live its best life. The bangs are soft across the forehead, but they are cut to allow some skin to show. The thing that is special about this cut is the way it combines density with airiness there is form, and there is space to breathe.

On girls who have natural curls or permed texture, I swear by the Maui Moisture Curl Quench + Coconut Oil Curl Smoothie. Apply it to wet hair and then twist the hair with fingers. Blow dry as required but be honest, this style adores air-dry days.

When I see this much texture sometimes, I am reminded of the hair freedom that I never thought I would have. The one that you wear it natural and still look refined. That’s the power of the right cut.

This is to the people who desire fall hair that precedes them into a room. There’s nothing subtle here—and that’s what makes it magic.

Honey Brunette Bob Shag

This bob cut does everything. It outlines the face with the dishevelled caramel layers and the perfect volume at the roots. The side-swept bangs are personality-filled, and feathered to the point of not being harsh. The color, a glowing honey brunette, makes this shag warm, which works so well with the cozy fall color palette.

Shorter shags need texture or they fall flat. A great trick? Combine Ouai Wave Spray with a small amount of serum- this mixture will maintain movement, but not lose polish. And yes, the highlights? Ask your stylist for babylights around the face only.

Each time I have done this short, I am surprised at the amount of freedom it provides. It is not only the length, but it is also the feeling of being sculpted and fresh. This cut reminds me of something Halle Berry would rock effortlessly (and she has!).

It is the final evidence that a bob can be cool and classy at the same time, two vibes, one haircut.

Grown-In Shag with Volume Layers

This is to the girl who does not want to chop, but wants change. Long shag layers, long curtain bangs and soft texturing at the mid-lengths create volume without sacrificing that wearable shape. The outcome is soft, voluminous and face-framing- fall in a haircut.

This is the kind of layered shag that is very easy to maintain. My go-to routine? Rough-dry and apply a bit of K Kerastase Mousse Bouffante at the roots when it is damp and then add some big barrel bends through the crown. Done.

My cut was very similar last October and I can tell you, it made every outfit look styled. Even when I was in joggers. I believe that is the reason why this cut is so strong: it makes even the laziest days special.

And since it is longer it will grow out into still more softness before winter comes. No sharp transitions, just good hair.

Face-Framing Highlighted Shag

This one sparkles. It is a medium length shag with caramel highlights on the face, which reflect the light perfectly. The bangs are ruffled and parted, which makes the cut look open and wearable. The soft waves add dimension without effort—think “third-day hair, but chic.”

For a long lasting shine and color I love using Redken Color Extend Magnetics Shampoo + Conditioner duo. It preserves the fragile brightness of those front pieces and everything is silky.

I like this look because it is so playful. The color accents are like the last accessory on a fall outfit-like a scarf or gloss. You do not have to have all the highlights to make a big impression.

This is a fantastic cut on naturally straight or wavy hair, and it is ideal when you are looking to put-together energy but do not want to lose movement.

Champagne Blonde Long Shag

Light, airy, and totally romantic. This shaggy long style has its magic using long curtain bangs and light layering that starts below the chin. The blonde is ice cool, though not cold, more soft champagne than platinum and the ends are feathered so they hang like silk over the shoulders.

Color like this needs love. To maintain brass at bay, wash every week with dpHUE Cool Blonde Shampoo and occasionally add in a bonding treatment such as K18. Moisturize those ends- this chop looks best when it is shiny and not dry.

This style takes me back to walks in the early October sun- when the light is golden and everything is crisp. It’s dreamy and modern all at once.

In case you are in the mood to be light and bright without being platinum, this combination of tones and shape is the best kept secret of fall.

Soft Curls and Shadow Roots

This shag is just the right balance between crazy and sophisticated. The medium-length curls are soft and in spirals and the bangs are airy and layered and flow into the rest of the cut. The dimension is brought out by the subtle shadow root, which also adds contrast to the hair- it is the color you desire when the fall light is golden and you want your hair to be the same.

This style works best when you hydrate those curls. My favorite soft-defining crme that is not stiff is Briogeo Curl Charisma Leave-In Defining Crme. Squeeze it into wet clumps and air dry, or plop, as you prefer.

I have always thought that the distinction between styled and styled well is how lived in it is. This is such a winning cut because it is natural. A bit dishevelled, a bit organised, it does not yell out, but it certainly has it.

And even when you want a curl-friendly cut that does not need frequent salon maintenance? This one checks every box.

The Classic Shag Reboot

Shout out to the OG shag but this time it has been updated. The layers are shorter at the crown and the fringe that frames the face is kept soft and swoopy. It is a bit feathered at the finish with that old curve through the ends and what do you get? Effortless rock-n-roll energy with grown-up polish.

Because the texture is essential here, I like layering a mousse (like Shu Uemura’s Kaze Wave) with a texturizing spray like Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe. It’s a budget-friendly favorite that works hard.

That is the type of cut I would suggest when one says, I want a change, but I do not want to look like I am in a costume. It is fashionable but not flashy and even better when the layers begin to sprout a little.

It is also the kind of cut that goes perfectly with autumn makeup- earthy colors, warm blushes and that just bitten lip.

Straight-Edge with Shag Soul

Slick yet somehow shaggy- this style is more on the side of soft layering and angular shapes, providing structure but keeping fluidity. The fringe is curtain-like, nearly all fused with the rest of the cut. It is mid-back in length and has a minimalistic style: straightened a bit with motion at the ends.

I use Virtue Healing Oil to keep it all light and floaty, as it adds shine without weight. It is this type of hair that can use satin pillowcases and heatless styling days as well.

There are times when I want this sort of quiet luxury feel, when it is still technically a shag, but not yelling about it. You have volume, shape and polish in a single breath.

Perfect when you have to alternate between business and artistic style in the workplace.

Golden Field Waves

This is the most romantic of the bunch with soft spiral waves and golden-copper color. The fringe is thick and light, curling over the forehead. Layers are long, and the form extends outward a little bit around the crown, creating a light, youthful, and clearly autumnal silhouette.

I would never want to lose moisture in those waves, so I would recommend Innersense Quiet Calm Curl Control, particularly when it is windy and dry outside. With blondes or lighter colors, a brass-neutralizing treatment every two weeks keeps that warmth in the correct tone range.

This hairstyle is associated with pumpkin fields and outdoor markets. It’s soft, earthy, and grounding in the best way. In case you have oversized cardigans and prairie blouses in your fall wardrobe, this cut will be the finishing touch.

And those curls are just right to photograph on holiday, without having to touch up.

Piecey Bangs & Layered Flicks

A total throwback, but with purpose. This feathered shag has flipped-out ends and edged, parted bangs which are laid down gently across the brow. It is lightly layered in a rather dramatic and yet soft way and the color, a creamy honey blonde is warm enough to glow in cooler weather.

A round brush and a blow-dryer with a nozzle will be useful to achieve this shape. Apply a volumizing mousse such as Color Wow Raise the Root, and then turn those ends out to get that bounce. The fringe? Piece it out with IGK Beach Club Spray.

I had a variation of this cut in 2022 and people still talk about it. It has that vintage touch but it has been modernized with the use of improved styling equipment and coloring methods.

If you’re a fan of that French “cool girl” aesthetic, this is your fall shag. Slightly rebellious, completely irresistible.

Beachy Platinum with Disheveled Bangs

This shag is putting out some hard coastal-witchcore vibes, with cool-toned platinum strands and a beachy, frayed texture and wispy bangs that blend into the face like fringe curtains. The shape is created by the internal layering and the sharp ends of the cut but the styling keeps it soft and wearable.

Going this light, it is not negotiable to treat your strands right. I use Olaplex No. 3 once a week and switch with Fanola No Yellow shampoo to prevent brass. The beauty of this texture? You can air-dry, spritz with Kristin Ess Sea Salt Air Dry Spray and go.

I am fond of the combination of platinum hair and fall colors taupes, charcoals, deep greens. This look is high contrast and still cozy. Imagine edgy boho with a touch of I just got back to Iceland.

The actual victory in this is the movement, it is light, undone and a little bit wild in the best sense.

Earthy Shag with Quiet Texture

This is what I call a low-key masterpiece. The layers are light, but the difference is dramatic, particularly at the chin and the collarbone. The style is dry styled to achieve a soft halo effect and the bangs are in a standard curtain shape that makes the face appear to be lifted.

A medium to thick hair can use this type of razor-cut to add air but not too much bulk. Piecey definition with the help of a bit of Sachajuan Hair Wax warmed between fingers to last throughout the day.

This style is singable because it is wearable. I consider this to be the ideal haircut to people who have never had a shag, and wish to have something dimensional and new. It doesn’t scream trend—it whispers chic.

I would match it with fall essentials: corduroy jackets, soft denim and suede boots. It’s the hair that pulls everything together.

Casual Bobbed Shag

Clipped, comfy, and so adorable–this bobbed shag is in-between Parisian chic and downtown chic. It has that typical puffy ends and relaxed bangs, but the form is close to the face. Shorter layers in the back add lift without stiffness.

Styling: It is a dream: towel dry, put some Amika Plus Size Perfect Body Mousse, scrunch it and leave it to its own devices. Preferring a little more polish, take a few pieces in a straightener and rake fingers through.

I wore a version of this at the beginning of September last year, and immediately felt cooler. A short shag makes you feel like you are the main actor in your own indie movie.

When you are sick of all the heavy styling and you simply want a haircut that will act right- this one will beckon you.

Soft Rebel Crop

Here’s a shag that doesn’t need to shout. The shortness gives it a dramatic effect but the soft layering and long-ish fringe neutralizes it with femininity. The texture flows freely and the side swept front provides it with a rocker edge but not too in your face.

This suits perfectly fine to medium hair types. I would suggest Oribe Swept Up Volume Powder Spray at the crown and a small bit of matte pomade to define.

This style is like that cool girl who does not care but really cares. It is not too short that it is a statement but not too cropped to be limiting in styling.

This cut will go well with thick eyebrows, little makeup and that is it. It’s the haircut that does all the talking.

Layered Cinnamon Waves

And to finish off on a classic note, long warm-toned waves that almost glow against fall lighting. This shag is face-framing and has smooth layers, and long curtain bangs that merge with cascading cinnamon balayage. It’s dimensional, soft, and luxurious without feeling overdone.

Color this deep should be glossed every 4-6 weeks and hydrated in between. My favorite product is Color Wow Dream Coat for Curly Hair to maintain shine and frizz at a minimum. Remember to end off with a boar bristle brush to maintain the layers smooth and separate.

I will forever tell you this cut is the cashmere of the shag hairstyles, it is warm, classy and classic. I would wear it to all the fall dinner parties and never touch it.

When you are too scared to take the full plunge into shag but you need a fall update that is luxurious and on trend- this is your gold standard.

Modern Chocolate Chop

This multilayered mid-length haircut is both intelligent and tender. The waves are vaguely outlined, and they are constructed outwards of the cheekbones to create a perfectly balanced silhouette. The richness and texture dimension of the chocolate base with a hint of golden brown at the ends give it a dimension. Fringe is delicate, tapered, and meant to move.

To improve the form, I would recommend R+Co Turntable Curl Defining Crme, even when you have nothing more than soft waves. You want bounce and hold without stickiness—this one delivers.

There’s something super wearable about this cut. I feel like it’s the kind of shag you throw on with a trench coat and a to-go coffee and you’re just… ready. Stylish, without the stress.

This one is gorgeous when it grows out, and it becomes even more beautiful as it softens with age, so if you don t like to visit the salon, it will be a good option.

Shattered Fringe & Airy Texture

This is a more textured, gently punk version of the shag. The texture is airy and not perfect in the best possible ways, and the cut has a shattered and piecey fringe that makes it what it is. The length remains short of the shoulders with the volume adding at the crown and dropping down.

In case you want to achieve the lived-in effect, dry shampoo does not only work with dirty hair, but it also provides volume and structure. Try Amika Perk Up Plus for that effortless fluff.

To me, this cut radiates spontaneity. It states, I woke up, ruffled it once, and went into my day. And truly, that’s the energy I want this season.

I also believe that this type of shag goes particularly well with warm layers, such as a large scarf, small amount of makeup, and a rosy cheek due to the cold.

Cinnamon Spice Shag

This trim is toasty, peppery and grained in all the correct areas. Layers make the movement start at the chin and a short full fringe gives it a punch. Ribbons of cinnamon and strawberry raise the copper base in natural light. It’s playful, seasonal, and loaded with personality.

Love is needed to color this punchy–particularly when you wish to keep the warmth. I apply DpHue Color Fresh Shampoo in Copper every other week and mix it with a moisturizing mask such as K18 to prevent dryness.

This slice makes me think of cinnamon sticks, apple cider and first-date jitters. It is spicy yet soft, which is perfect for a person who wants to make an entrance this fall.

Pro tip? It looks gorgeous with darker reds, burgundy lips and anything gold in your wardrobe.

Curled Cream Bob

Light, short, and airy- this shag has a breezy coastal feel even when the temperatures begin to fall. The curls are loose and far apart, not too sharp, which makes the cut casual and wearable. The blonde is relaxed and worn-in with a subtle shadow of the root so it is easy to maintain.

I would suggest using Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Featherlight Styling Cream to diffuse without frizz and to keep volume on dry days in the fall. Finger-tousling throughout the day revives the look in seconds.

This trim reminds me of artist lofts, lazy weekend mornings and chunky knitwear. It is that cut that you put on when you want your hair to feel dressed but not formal.

It’s short—but not limited. As a matter of fact, it leaves you with so many options when it comes to styling, particularly when you experiment with accessories or soft waves.

Rooty Blonde with Flicked-Out Layers

Finally, we can finish with a smooth rebel. This longer shag mixes soft roundness with directional flicks, and it’s all pulled together with buttery blonde and dimensional brunette lowlights. The bangs of the curtain fall into face-framing layers, so it is a perfect hairstyle to have versatility in styling.

On hold and finish, I would apply Color Wow Style on Steroids, it gives memory and shine without making the hair stiff. A round brush and cool setting on your dryer will take you a long way to achieve those flips.

This haircut brings to my mind the type of casual look that you would find on off-duty models. It is classy but not too smooth, and the rooty contrast makes it authentic.

If you’re not into rigid structure but still want your hair to feel “done,” this style meets you right where you’re at.