Different Flavors of the '18 Shag and How They Were Styled
Exploring the Subtle Differences in This Popular Look
Within this big trend of short, textured hair in 2018, you started to see different takes on the style, each with its own unique character. One popular approach was all about those really defined, choppy layers that gave the hair a cool, slightly rebellious feel and a lot of movement. Often, these cuts had shorter layers up top to add volume right where you wanted it, and a fringe — whether it was blunt, soft and wispy, or swept to the side — really helped to frame the face and make the look your own.
Then there was a softer version, where the layers were blended more smoothly. This created a gentler transition between the different lengths of hair, resulting in a more subtle and refined textured look. This style often worked particularly well if your hair had a natural wave or curl, as it helped to enhance that existing texture without making it look too bulky. The goal here was a more harmonious and flowing shape that really showed off the hair's natural movement.
Hair color also played a big part in how these short, textured cuts looked. A bold, all-over color could really amplify the edginess of the style, while softer highlights or lowlights could bring out the texture and dimension created by the layers. Balayage, which is a way of hand-painting highlights, was especially popular for adding natural-looking depth and movement to that shaggy texture. The way the cut and color worked together allowed for a lot of personalization, so everyone could find a way to make the trend their own.
To get the most out of a short, textured cut, the right styling products were key. Texturizing sprays and mousses were go-to items for boosting volume and definition, while things like waxes and pomades could help create more structured, piecey looks. If you wanted to play around with the texture even more, heat styling tools like curling irons or flat irons could be used to create waves, curls, or even a smoother finish. The trick was to try different products and techniques to see what worked best with your hair and the look you were going for.
