Medium Length Shag Cuts: 70s Vibes

Fashion and beauty are cyclical, constantly revolving doors that bring the best elements of the past back into the spotlight. In the world of hair, few eras are as iconic or as heavily referenced as the 1970s. It was a decade defined by freedom, rock 'n' roll, and an effortless, undone aesthetic that rejected the stiff, structured styles of the previous generation. Today, in 2026, we are witnessing a massive resurgence of this ethos, specifically through the medium length shag cut. This style perfectly encapsulates the "cool girl" energy—a look that says you care about your appearance, but you aren't trying too hard.

The medium length shag with 70s vibes is more than just a haircut; it is an attitude. It balances the line between messy and chic, offering a versatile shape that works on almost every hair texture. Unlike the severe mullets of the 80s or the sleek, pin-straight bobs of the 90s, the 70s shag is all about movement. It utilizes choppy layers, heavy texturizing, and usually a significant fringe to frame the face. The medium length—typically grazing the collarbone or shoulders—is the sweet spot. It provides enough length to tie up if necessary but remains short enough to maintain incredible volume and bounce without the weight of long hair dragging it down.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the anatomy of the perfect 70s shag, why it has returned with such force, and how you can tailor this vintage look to suit a modern lifestyle. Whether you have pin-straight locks, waves, or coils, the shag is adaptable. We will also delve into the best products to use, how to communicate with a stylist, and the maintenance required to keep this rock-and-roll look fresh.

The Anatomy of a 70s Shag

To understand why the medium length shag works so well, one must understand its structural components. At its core, a shag is defined by its layers. However, these are not the blended, long layers found in a standard blowout cut. The layers in a 70s shag are disconnected and choppy, often cut with a razor to create shattered ends rather than blunt lines. This technique removes bulk from the interior of the hair while retaining volume at the crown, creating a silhouette that is fuller on top and tapers down toward the ends.

The second critical component is the fringe. A true 70s-inspired shag is rarely seen without bangs. The most popular variation involves "curtain bangs"—a center-parted fringe that sweeps outward, framing the eyes and cheekbones like a curtain on a stage. These bangs are essential for blending the shorter layers around the face with the longer length at the back. Alternatively, some variations feature a heavy, full fringe that grazes the eyebrows, reminiscent of rock icons like Stevie Nicks or Joey Ramone. The key is that the bangs are textured, not blunt, allowing them to grow out gracefully.

Finally, the medium length is crucial for achieving the specific "vibes" of the era. When hair is too long, the weight can pull out the texture, making the layers lie flat. When it is too short, it leans more towards a pixie or a bob. The medium length allows the layers to kick out and move freely. It sits right at the collarbone or just below the shoulders, drawing attention to the neck and jawline. This length is universally flattering and serves as the perfect canvas for the volume that defines the 70s aesthetic.

Why the 70s Shag is Trending in 2026

The revival of the medium length shag can be attributed to a cultural shift towards low-maintenance luxury. In a fast-paced world, individuals are seeking hairstyles that look good with minimal effort. The beauty of the shag is that it embraces natural texture. In fact, it often looks better the day after washing, or with a bit of "bedhead" grit. It rejects the need for perfection, aligning with the current wellness-focused zeitgeist where natural beauty is celebrated over artificial stiffness.

Furthermore, the influence of pop culture cannot be overstated. With the continued popularity of vintage-inspired fashion—flared jeans, crochet tops, and oversized sunglasses—hair trends naturally followed suit. Streaming series set in the 70s and 80s, along with the biopics of famous musicians, have reintroduced these visuals to a Gen Z and Millennial audience who may be experiencing them for the first time. Social media platforms are flooded with tutorials on how to achieve "Farrah Fawcett flips" and "wolf cuts," proving that the appetite for retro volume is insatiable.

Modern hair tools and products have also revolutionized this cut. In the actual 1970s, achieving these looks often required harsh perms or damaging heat styling. Today, professional salons have access to bonding treatments, high-quality diffusers, and weightless styling products that allow for the same volume without compromising hair health. The modern shag is softer and healthier than its historical predecessor, making it accessible to a wider demographic who prioritize hair integrity.

Tailoring the Cut to Face Shapes

One of the most common misconceptions about the shag is that it only suits a specific face shape. On the contrary, the medium length shag is one of the most customizable cuts available. Because the layers frame the face, a skilled stylist can adjust where those layers fall to accentuate or soften specific features. It is arguably the most contouring haircut a person can get, using hair rather than makeup to alter facial perception.

For those with round faces, a medium shag can add much-needed definition. By keeping the layers around the face slightly longer (starting below the cheekbones) and adding height at the crown, the cut elongates the face. A side-swept bang or a longer curtain bang works better here than a heavy, blunt fringe, which might shorten the face. The texture at the ends helps to break up the roundness, adding angles where there naturally aren't any.

Conversely, for square or heart-shaped faces, the 70s shag is perfect for softening angular jawlines. Wispy layers that curl inward around the chin can camouflage a strong jaw, while a softer, feathered fringe can balance a wider forehead. The "shagginess" diffuses hard lines, creating a more romantic and ethereal look. Oval faces, as with most styles, can pull off almost any variation of the shag, from the most extreme mullet-hybrid to the softest, barely-there layered cut.

Texture Talk: Straight, Wavy, and Curly

The medium length shag is a chameleon when it comes to hair texture. For those with straight, fine hair, the shag is a miracle worker for creating the illusion of thickness. The layering technique builds structure and volume that one-length cuts simply cannot achieve. By using texturizing sprays and volumizing mousse, straight hair can hold the messy, lived-in shape that characterizes the 70s vibe. It stops fine hair from looking limp and gives it a dynamic movement.

Wavy hair is perhaps the easiest texture for this cut. Natural waves align perfectly with the choppy layers, requiring very little daily styling. The cut enhances the wave pattern, encouraging the hair to twist and turn. A simple scrunch with sea salt spray is often all that is needed to look ready for the day. The shag takes the bulk out of thick, wavy hair, preventing the dreaded "triangle" shape and allowing the waves to sit properly.

Curly hair shags are having a massive moment. For years, people with curls were told to avoid short layers for fear of shrinking or frizz. However, the modern shag embraces the curl. By cutting the layers in a way that follows the curl pattern, stylists can create a halo of volume that looks incredibly chic and retro. It gives curly hair a shape that isn't just "round" or "heavy." It allows curls to bounce and have individual definition. The 70s curly shag is bold, confident, and celebrates natural coil patterns.

Styling the 70s Shag: Tools and Products

While the shag is low maintenance in theory, achieving the perfect "effortless" look usually requires the right products. The goal is to enhance texture and volume without making the hair look crunchy or stiff. The foundation of styling a medium shag is a good volumizing mousse or root lift spray applied to damp hair. This ensures that when the hair dries, it doesn't fall flat against the scalp, which is the antithesis of the 70s look.

For drying, two methods dominate. For a smoother, Farrah Fawcett-inspired look, a round brush and a blow dryer are essential. The technique involves drying the bangs away from the face to create that sweeping curtain effect and flipping the ends of the layers outward. For a more rock-and-roll, Stevie Nicks texture, a diffuser is the best tool. Diffusing encourages natural waves and volume without blowing out the texture. It creates a rougher, cooler finish that looks lived-in.

Finishing products are the secret weapon. Texturizing spray or dry shampoo is a must-have for day-two hair. These products add grit to the strands, allowing the layers to separate and stand out. A matte pomade or clay can be used on the very ends of the hair to define the choppy bits and prevent fluffiness. Avoid heavy oils or serums near the roots, as this will collapse the volume that is essential to the silhouette.

The Role of Color

The impact of a medium length shag can be significantly amplified by the right hair color application. While the cut provides the shape, color provides the depth. In the 70s, hair color was often warm and natural—think golden blondes, rich coppers, and chocolate browns. Bringing these warm tones back can enhance the retro feel. However, modern coloring techniques like balayage and baby-lights are superior for highlighting the texture of a shag.

Placement is key. Stylists often use "lived-in" color techniques where the roots are kept darker and the ends lighter. This gradient effect accentuates the layers. When the ends are lighter, the eye is drawn to the movement and the choppiness of the cut. If the hair is one solid, dark color, the detail of the layers can sometimes get lost visually. Highlights placed around the face (the "money piece") can also emphasize the curtain bangs and brighten the complexion.

For the bold, creative colors also work surprisingly well with shags. A pastel pink or a deep emerald green shag creates a fusion of 70s shape with modern punk aesthetics. The texture of the cut breaks up the light, making vivid colors look multifaceted and dimensional rather than flat. Regardless of the hue, the color should always serve to enhance the visual separation of the layers.

Tips for the Perfect Salon Visit

• Bring Visuals: "Shag" can mean different things to different stylists. Bring photos of the specific 70s vibe you want—whether it's soft and romantic or jagged and edgy.

• Discuss Maintenance: Be honest about how much time you want to spend styling. If you don't own a blow dryer, tell the stylist so they can cut it to air-dry beautifully.

• Mention Your Bangs History: If you have cowlicks or a tricky hairline, mention this before the fringe is cut. This ensures the curtain bangs will sit correctly.

• Trust the Razor: If your stylist suggests using a razor, don't panic. For many hair types, this tool is essential for getting those soft, tapered edges that define the 70s look.

• Ask for a Lesson: Ask the stylist to show you exactly how they are drying the bangs. The "swoop" can be tricky to master at home without a quick tutorial.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will a medium shag make my thin hair look thinner?

A: Generally, no. When cut correctly, the layers add volume and movement, creating the illusion of more hair. However, if the ends are thinned out too much with a razor, it can look wispy. Experienced stylists know how to balance removing weight without sacrificing density.

Q: How often does a shag cut need to be trimmed?

A: To keep the layers sitting perfectly and the bangs at the right length, a trim every 6 to 8 weeks is recommended. However, because shags are meant to look grown-out and textured, you can often stretch this to 10 or 12 weeks if you don't mind a looser shape.

Q: Can I get a shag if I have a short forehead?

A: Absolutely. The key is in the bangs. A deep-set curtain bang that starts further back on the head can create the illusion of a longer forehead. Avoid heavy, blunt bangs that cut the face in half.

Q: Is this style suitable for professional office environments?

A: Yes. While it has a rock-and-roll history, a medium shag can be styled to look very polished. Using a round brush for a smooth blowout creates a sophisticated, voluminous look that is perfectly appropriate for corporate settings.

Q: What is the difference between a Shag and a Wolf Cut?

A: The Wolf Cut is essentially a more extreme variation of the shag, blending elements of the shag and the mullet. It typically features much shorter layers on top and a more distinct disconnection between the top and the length. The classic 70s shag is usually more blended and uniform than a Wolf Cut.

Q: Do I need to use heat to style a shag?

A: Not necessarily. One of the biggest benefits of this cut is how well it air-dries, especially for wavy hair. However, if you have very straight hair or want maximum volume, using a blow dryer on the roots will yield the best results.

Conclusion

The medium length shag with 70s vibes is more than just a fleeting trend; it is a celebration of texture, volume, and individual expression. It harkens back to an era of freedom while fitting perfectly into the modern desire for effortless style. Whether you are looking to add volume to fine hair, tame thick waves, or simply change your look to something with more personality, this cut offers a solution.

By understanding the anatomy of the cut, communicating clearly with a professional stylist, and utilizing the right products, anyone can rock this retro aesthetic. It frames the face, enhances natural beauty, and requires far less maintenance than the precision cuts of previous years. As we move through 2026, the shag remains a testament to the fact that the best styles never truly disappear—they just evolve. If you are ready to embrace the bounce, the layers, and the attitude, the 70s shag is waiting for you.