A square face shape is a true gift - nobody has a better jawline than you. But haircuts are all about establishing balance. And so if you're wanting to soften your angles at all with your trusty tresses, there are some specific cuts that flatter square faces best.

"With square faces, I focus on softening", says Michael Kelly, Founder of Sydney's stunning hair salon, Salon HER. "Think gentle layers, side parts and texture through the mid-lengths."

Wondering why those are recommended? "These kinds of shapes relax the jawline and give the whole silhouette a more effortless feel", Kelly confirms.

As for what to avoid, Kelly has some tips there, too. "I avoid harsh lines on square faces. Instead, I build movement that creates openness and flow so it never feels heavy."

Considering movement is one of our very favourite elements of a great haircut, we must admit we don't think you've been dealt a bad card. Here are the expert-approved haircuts designed to flatter square face shapes...

Best Haircuts For Square Face Shapes

Haircut Inspiration For Square Face Shapes

Jennifer Aniston's Carved Layers

Cuts carved around your jaw are ideal: "Jennifer Aniston is one of the best-known examples. Her face shape is naturally strong and structured, and what she does so well is layer softly around it", Kelly explains. "The "Rachel" may have been the trend, but the reason it worked was because the layers carved around her jaw and cheekbones in a way that softened everything without losing that power. Even now, she keeps that flow with face-framing shapes that lift and contour without bulk."

Keira Knightley's Textured Bob

Shorter cuts can work too, especially with a soft wave style and a strategic side part.

"Keira Knightley is a great visual for those who want shorter hair", Kelly says. "Her textured bobs and side parts are soft around the edges and help create a more relaxed frame."

Angelina Jolie's Blended Layers

Softness is always flattering to a square face shape, as evidenced by Jolie's flowing cut.

"Angelina Jolie is another great reference", Kelly confirms. "She often wears sleek blowouts or long, blended layers that skim her face just enough to soften the jawline. What I love is that she never hides her structure, she enhances it with just enough softness. That balance between strength and femininity is exactly what works for square face shapes."

Olivia Wilde's Side-Swept Length

Where a centre part can be a tad harsh on a stronger jaw, a side part is stunning.

"Olivia Wilde wears long, sweeping layers and often parts her hair deep to one side", Kelly notes. "That diagonal movement breaks up the width at the jaw and elongates the face beautifully."

Image credits: Getty

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