Fashion

Hairstyles That Compliment Oval-Faced Ladies

by Julia Teen

It may seem like celebrities can work any style, but like lots in Hollywood, that's an illusion. Stars have hair stylists who know how to make subtle tweaks to a cut so it suits a client’s natural face structure. Fortunately, you don't need to be famous to know how your face is shaped and get a cut that flatters it. Oval-faced friends, this one's for you.

HOW TO KNOW IF YOU HAVE AN OVAL FACE

This is the easiest part. Using an old lipstick, trace the outline of your face (excluding your ears), then look in the mirror. What shape do you see? On oval faces, the forehead should be broad, with slightly wider cheekbones, and a tapered jaw. Jessica Alba, beauty of beauties, is an oval.

HOW TO CHOOSE YOUR CUT

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Oval-shaped faces just about win the genetic lottery when it comes to which hairstyles work. There are so many!

“Oval faces can wear just about any hair look. Most oval faces have that perfect three-part shape where the forehead, nose area and chin are equally proportioned. This symmetry creates versatility so any style will be working for you,” explains celeb hairstylist Billy Lowe. “Ovals can be often be long, however, so if you have fine hair avoid longer lengths because this can drag the face shape down.”

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For thicker hair types, try cutting layers in at your cheekbones, lips, and chin for the face-flattering effect we've seen on Jen Aniston and Eva Mendes.

Then, experiment away — you're a blank canvas!