Are you intrigued by how salons are embracing the ’70s revival? If you’re keen to try out the trend but aren’t ready for a complete makeover, the subtle shag haircut might be for you.
What is a subtle shag?
“The subtle shag haircut is a modern take on the classic ’70s shag,” explains Phoebe Friend, hairdresser and salon manager at SHAG! West London. “The cut has softer and less dramatic layers, but still focuses on more movement. It’s an evolution of the classic shag, which is all about being bold and dramatic with its short, structured layers.”
@phoebejfriend A softer approach to a shag! This haircut might be for you if you like lots of layers around your face but want to leave the layers long at the back. Haircut and styling by me and colour by Steph… visit us at @SHAG! London As always, save this post for inspiration 🙂 #londonhairstylist #shaglondon #davines #hairinspo #althairstylist #90saesthetic #westlondonsalon #subtleshag ♬ Summer Song – Remy Bond ☮︎
Shag power has reached new heights in the past year, thanks in large part to TikTok’s obsession with retro hairstyles. (And with 69.9 million posts currently under #subtleshaggyhaircut, we doubt the hype will die down anytime soon.) This cut just seems to be the next bridge between modern and nostalgia.
Looking at pictures of the subtle shag, we see that it’s an ideal in-between style for those who don’t want to go full-on with the ’70s classic. “It’s a good way to try out the shape and silhouette of a shag,” says Phoebe. “You don’t lose too much thickness or the ability to style your hair more elegantly.”
Who suits this cut?
Phoebe tells us this look works for any hair type – curly, kinky, wavy and straight. “But I think it’s particularly good for finer hair thicknesses as you get the shaggy effect without losing as much hair to the layers,” she adds. “As always, ask your hairdresser for advice if you’re unsure about what will look best on you.”
@tobiasbellhair My client asked for the 70s rockstar cut ✂️ #fyp #shaghaircut #70s #stevienicks #shagcuthair #70shairstyle #70sfashion ♬ Whole Lotta Love (Remaster) – Led Zeppelin
What to Ask for at the Salon (and What to Expect)
“Ask for shorter, thin, textured layers,” Phoebe recommends. She also suggests bringing your stylist plenty of photo references to keep you on the same page. “Your stylist will create the look by blending the layers from the shortest point to the baseline using a transition length technique.”
How to style a subtle shag
The beauty of the subtle shag is its versatility; it has all the rockstar appeal of the original, but the scope to make it sleek and glamorous. “The best thing is the versatility of the look,” confirms Phoebe. “You can wear it messy and unfinished, or blow-dried and sleek. Both show off the style beautifully.”
However, for a classic look, Phoebe says you should focus on texture and volume: “Products like sea salt spray, texturizing serum or a dry texture spray are perfect for bringing out this casual style.”
Hair Inspiration
Featured image: SS25 Copenhagen Fashion Week Streetstyle (c) Noor-u-Nisa
