Trending Long Shag Cuts for a Retro Vibe

Introduction

The shag haircut is one of the most iconic styles to emerge from the 1970s, and in 2025, it’s back with a modern twist. Long shag cuts blend the free-spirited retro aesthetic with updated textures, colors, and layers that suit today’s lifestyles.

The revival of long shag haircuts has made waves on runways, red carpets, and social media feeds. Unlike short or medium shag cuts, this style delivers maximum versatility. You can wear it polished and sleek for a professional setting or tousled and textured for an off-duty, rockstar vibe.

In this article, we’ll explore 12 trending long shag cuts that combine retro charm with modern appeal. You’ll also find tips on how to maintain them, what face shapes and hair types they flatter, and even celebrity references that prove the shag is here to stay.

Modern Retro Long Shag

The modern retro shag combines long layers, feathered ends, and curtain bangs for a style that feels both vintage and up-to-date. It works beautifully on wavy or slightly curly textures, allowing hair to move freely without needing much effort.

With a light mousse scrunched into damp strands, you can achieve that effortless bounce. This version is especially flattering for oval and round face shapes, as the layers soften facial structure while keeping the look light and airy.

Textured Shag with Subtle Highlights

This shag variation relies on highlights to elevate the retro feel. Caramel, honey, or ash-blonde streaks paired with face-framing layers bring light and depth to longer hair. It’s a subtle way to add sophistication while maintaining a laid-back retro vibe.

A round brush blow-dry with the ends flicked outward creates volume and that playful texture the shag is famous for. This cut works well for medium to thick hair that benefits from layering and color contrast.

Shag with Side-Swept Curtain Bangs

Side-swept curtain bangs add drama to the traditional shag. This style emphasizes movement around the face while maintaining the length in place. Long layers cascade effortlessly, blending into bangs that sweep softly to the side.

It’s a perfect cut for those with fuller cheeks or wider foreheads, as it frames the face without overwhelming it. To style, use a large-barrel curling iron for loose waves or a texturizing spray to create an undone finish.

Retro Shag with Blunt Ends

A twist on the classic, this cut balances shaggy layers with blunt ends for definition. This look has a polished retro edge and is great for women who want structure without sacrificing the carefree essence of a shag.

The blunt ends add weight, making it ideal for fine or straight hair. A gloss serum helps smooth flyaways and keeps the finish sleek while still maintaining retro influence.

Shag with Wispy Fringe

Wispy fringe softens the long shag, giving it a romantic, retro-inspired edge. This style frames the eyes beautifully while adding volume at the crown.

The wispy nature of the bangs prevents heaviness, making them versatile for both fine and thick textures. Blow-drying the fringe inward with a round brush while tousling the rest of the hair keeps the look casual yet chic.

Layered Shag with Face-Framing Highlights

This shag is all about depth and brightness. Subtle highlights around the face illuminate layered cuts, creating a sun-kissed retro aesthetic. Loose waves add movement, while the layers stop the highlights from appearing too uniform.

This cut is especially flattering for square or angular face shapes, as the framing softens strong features.

Long Shag with Feathered Layers

Feathering is a hallmark of 70s-inspired shags, and this style captures that flow perfectly. Feathered layers add softness and make hair appear fuller. Best for straight-to-wavy textures, the feathering technique works wonders on oval and heart-shaped faces.

A light texturizing spray enhances separation, giving a windblown finish that feels glamorous yet effortless.

Shag with Soft Ombre

For a modern twist, pair a long shag with a subtle ombre. Dark roots transitioning into lighter ends amplify the retro feel while keeping it trendy for 2025.

A sea salt spray creates a tousled, beachy effect, making the shag appear even more undone and natural. This haircut suits women who want a low-maintenance yet stylish look that grows out beautifully.

Retro Shag with Center Part

A center part instantly takes the shag back to its 70s roots. This version keeps things simple with straight or slightly wavy layers that fall naturally.

Flat-ironing the ends outward creates that iconic flick, while keeping the rest of the hair sleek. Best for symmetrical or oval face shapes, the center part adds balance and timeless appeal.

Shag with Long, Side-Swept Bangs

Long side-swept bangs are a softer alternative to full fringe. Blended into shaggy layers, they add movement without demanding excessive upkeep. This look is versatile for both professional and casual settings.

A little texturizing cream enhances volume and keeps the layers defined. This cut works particularly well for fine hair, as the layers prevent the look from falling flat.

Disheveled Long Shag

For a rockstar edge, the disheveled long shag channels the spirit of icons like Joan Jett. It is the ultimate low-maintenance chic cut because it thrives on imperfection. Messy, undone layers look best on thick or naturally wavy hair.

Matte texturizing paste enhances the raw texture, creating a look that is equal parts edgy and feminine. This Long Shag style is a go-to option for women who want their hair to look lived-in and effortless.

Shag with Subtle Highlights and Layers

This softer take on the shag works well for everyday wear. Layers provide volume and flow, while understated highlights add a retro touch without going too bold.

This option feels office-appropriate yet stylish. Blow-drying in sections keeps the bounce intact while maintaining a lightweight finish. It’s perfect for women seeking versatility. They can wear it sleek for work or tousled for a night out.

How to Style and Maintain Long Shag Cuts

Long shags are versatile, but they require the right products and care to preserve their retro charm. For styling, lightweight mousse, sea salt sprays, and texturizing creams are must-haves. Tools like round brushes, diffusers, and flat irons help create everything from flicked ends to beachy waves.

Maintenance is equally important. Regular trims every 8 to 10 weeks prevent split ends and keep layers defined. If you have bangs, a trim every 4 to 6 weeks keeps them fresh.

For color-enhanced shags, use sulfate-free shampoos to preserve vibrancy. Hydrating masks and nourishing oils keep longer layers healthy and prevent dryness, which can dull the overall style.

Celebrity and Influencer Inspiration

Many celebrities have revived the modern shag, bringing retro styles back into the spotlight. Miley Cyrus often sports a rocker-inspired shag with tousled waves, while Dua Lipa has been experimenting with softer, layered versions.

Classic icons like Jane Fonda and Stevie Nicks also continue to inspire modern shag interpretations. On TikTok and Instagram, influencers showcase variations of the long shag with creative color pairings, making it one of the most versatile trends of 2025.

Conclusion

The long shag is proof that retro never really goes out of style. It simply evolves. With its mix of feathered layers, wispy bangs, textured finishes, and playful color accents, the shag remains one of the most adaptable cuts of 2025.

Whether you love the rock-chic disheveled style or the polished vibe of blunt ends, there’s a shag variation for every personality and lifestyle.

If you are considering a fresh look that embodies both vintage charm and modern versatility, the long shag is a perfect choice. Ask your stylist which shag variation best suits your features and lifestyle, then enjoy a look that feels timeless and trendy.