How to Choose the Right Haircut for Your Face Shape (NYC Barber Guide)

Finding a good barber in New York City is one thing. Finding the right haircut for your face shape? That’s another level.

At Imperial Barbershop NYC, we don’t just give haircuts we shape confidence. A style that looks great on one guy can totally miss the mark on another, just because their face shapes are different. This guide will help you figure out what haircut will actually complement your features — so you leave the shop looking sharp, not just “cleaned up.”

Let’s break it down.

Why Face Shape Matters

Your face shape influences how a haircut frames your features. The goal isn’t to hide your shape it’s to balance and enhance your natural structure.

There are six main face shapes:

• Oval

• Square

• Round

• Rectangle (or oblong)

• Heart

• Diamond

🟢 1. Oval Face Shape

You’ve got: Balanced proportions, slightly curved jaw, forehead slightly wider than the chin.
Good news: Almost every style works on you.

Best Haircuts:

• Pompadour

• Quiff

• Slick back

• Mid or low fades

Avoid: Full fringe bangs they can throw off your natural balance.

Imperial Tip: If you’re not sure where to start, go with a clean mid fade and some volume up top. It’s a classic NYC look.

🟨 2. Square Face Shape

You’ve got: Strong jawline, equal width forehead and jaw, angular features.
Your edge: Masculine and bold.

Best Haircuts:

• Buzz cut

• High fade with short top

• Crew cut

• Side part

Avoid: Haircuts that add too much width to the sides — it can make your head look boxy.

Imperial Tip: Ask for a tight skin fade to highlight your jawline — it’s a power move.

🔵 3. Round Face Shape

You’ve got: Soft jawline, equal width and height, minimal angles.
Your goal: Add angles and height.

Best Haircuts:

• High fade with textured top

• Faux hawk

• Side part with volume

• Angular fringe

Avoid: Buzz cuts or full bowl-style cuts — they make the face appear rounder.

Imperial Tip: A high fade with volume on top instantly adds structure.

🟣 4. Rectangle (Oblong) Face Shape

You’ve got: Long, straight face with minimal width at the sides.
Your goal: Add width and avoid too much height.

Best Haircuts:

• Side-swept styles

• Low or mid taper

• Medium length with natural texture

• Fringe or brush forward

Avoid: Tall pompadours or super short sides — they exaggerate length.

Imperial Tip: Go with a low taper and brushed-forward texture to add width without losing style.

❤️ 5. Heart Face Shape

You’ve got: Wider forehead, narrow chin.
Your goal: Balance the bottom half of your face.

Best Haircuts:

• Medium-length textured styles

• Side parts

• Low fades

• Swept-back undercut

Avoid: Tight fades that make the forehead look even wider.

Imperial Tip: Let your barber leave more volume near the neck or jaw area — it balances the top-heavy shape.

💎 6. Diamond Face Shape

You’ve got: High cheekbones, narrow forehead and jaw.
Your goal: Add width to the forehead and chin area.

Best Haircuts:

• Textured fringe

• Layered quiff

• Side parts with taper

• Shaggy crop

Avoid: Tight skin fades that make your head look narrower up top.

Imperial Tip: Keep some length and flow around the temples — it softens your angles.

Final Thought: Let Your Barber Guide You

Still not sure what face shape you are? That’s our job. At Imperial Barbershop NYC, we’ve worked with thousands of men with all face types, hair textures, and lifestyles. We’ll help you figure it out and recommend the best cut based on your look, your job, and even your morning routine.

Ready for a Cut That Actually Suits You?

Skip the guesswork. Book your next appointment at Imperial Barbershop NYC and walk out with a cut that’s tailored to you — not just trendy.

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