Plus size hairstyles should feel fun, flattering, and easy to wear all day. The right cut and styling choice can frame your face, balance your features, and boost your confidence.
This list shares 26 plus size hairstyles with clear tips and image prompts you can use for inspiration.
Soft Layered Lob With Side Part
A layered lob sits around the shoulders and keeps the look light. The layers remove bulk and add movement around the cheeks and jaw. A side part adds lift at the roots and gives the face a gentle frame.
Use a round brush and blow-dry the top section away from the face. Add a light texture spray to keep the ends airy. Tuck one side behind the ear for a clean shape.
Long Layers With Face-Framing Pieces
Long layers keep length while shaping the silhouette. Face-framing pieces soften the forehead and draw attention to the eyes. This style works well for straight, wavy, or curled hair.
Ask for layers that start below the cheekbone for a smooth blend. Style with loose waves to show the movement. Finish with a shine serum on the mid-lengths and ends.
Textured Shag With Curtain Bangs
A textured shag brings volume where you want it and removes heaviness where you do not. Curtain bangs split softly and highlight the eyes and cheekbones. The choppy layers create an effortless, modern finish.
Use mousse at the roots for lift and grip. Diffuse on low heat for soft texture. Scrunch the ends and let a few pieces fall naturally.
Curly Shoulder-Length Cut With Rounded Shape
A rounded shoulder-length cut supports curls and keeps the shape balanced. The length helps prevent the sides from puffing out too wide. The result looks polished and bouncy.
Ask for curl-by-curl shaping or long layers made for curls. Apply curl cream and then gel for hold. Let curls air-dry or diffuse until fully dry.
Sleek Middle-Part Low Bun
A low bun looks elegant and neat without much effort. The middle part gives symmetry and a clean line. This style works for casual days and formal events.
Smooth hair with a brush and a light gel at the hairline. Secure the bun at the nape for a soft profile. Pull out two thin pieces near the temples for softness.
High Ponytail With Wrapped Base
A high ponytail lifts the face and looks energetic. Wrapping hair around the base hides the elastic and looks polished. This style pairs well with waves or curls.
Backcomb the crown lightly for lift before you secure it. Use a strong elastic and then wrap a strand around the base. Set with hairspray and a soft edge brush.
Side-Swept Waves With Deep Part
A deep side part adds instant volume and drama. Side-swept waves guide the eye across the face in a flattering way. This style looks great in photos and in real life.
Curl with a large-barrel iron and brush the waves softly. Pin the heavier side behind the ear for balance. Use a light spray to keep the wave shape.
Blunt Bob With Soft Ends
A blunt bob gives a strong, modern outline. Softened ends keep it from looking too sharp. The cut can make hair look thicker and healthier.
Ask for a jaw-to-chin length that suits your neck and shoulders. Flat iron with a slight bend at the ends. Add a smoothing cream for a clean finish.
Angled Bob That Lengthens the Front
An angled bob feels light in the back and longer in the front. The front pieces frame the face and add structure. This shape looks chic and easy to maintain.
Ask for a gentle angle, not a sharp drop, for a softer look. Blow-dry with a paddle brush for smoothness. Finish with a tiny amount of serum on the tips.
Half-Up, Half-Down With Crown Volume
Half-up styling opens the face and shows off length. Added crown volume balances the look and avoids a flat top. It works well for straight or wavy hair.
Tease the crown lightly and smooth over the top layer. Secure the top section with a clip or small elastic. Curl the ends for a softer finish.
Loose Beach Waves on Medium Length
Beach waves add texture without feeling heavy. Medium length keeps styling time manageable. The overall look feels relaxed and confident.
Use a texturizing spray before you curl. Twist sections and leave the ends slightly straighter. Break up the waves with fingers, not a brush.
Layered Pixie With Volume on Top
A layered pixie highlights the face and feels fresh. Volume on top creates a flattering lift. Short sides keep the shape clean and modern.
Ask for longer top layers and shorter sides for contrast. Use a small amount of styling paste and lift the top with fingers. Keep the finish soft, not stiff.
Pixie Bob With Side Fringe
A pixie bob gives short hair more softness and shape. A side fringe frames the eyes and cheekbones. This cut grows out nicely and stays versatile.
Style with a blow-dry and a small round brush at the fringe. Use light wax to separate pieces. Keep the back smooth for a tidy outline.
Braided Crown for Special Days
A braided crown looks romantic and keeps hair out of the face. It adds detail without needing heat tools. This style works for weddings, parties, and photos.
Create two braids and pin them across the top of the head. Secure with bobby pins that match your hair color. Pull the braid edges slightly for fullness.
Side Braid With Soft Face Pieces
A side braid feels casual and flattering. Soft face pieces keep it gentle and relaxed. It also works well on second-day hair.
Start the braid below the ear and keep tension loose. Pull the braid slightly to widen it. Finish with a small elastic and light hairspray.
High Bun With Smooth Edges
A high bun lifts the look and feels clean. Smooth edges make it polished and photo-ready. This style works with natural texture and straightened hair.
Brush hair upward and secure it at the crown. Wrap the bun and pin it firmly for hold. Use edge control lightly and a satin scarf for a few minutes.
Low Chignon With Side Part
A low chignon looks classic and elegant. A side part adds softness and shape. It flatters many face shapes and works for formal wear.
Twist hair into a low knot at the nape. Pin the twist in sections for a secure hold. Add a decorative pin for a refined touch.
Shoulder-Length Blowout With Bounce
A bouncy blowout gives volume and shine. Shoulder length keeps the look full without dragging the face down. It feels fresh and salon-like.
Use heat protectant and blow-dry in sections with a round brush. Roll the ends under slightly for bounce. Set with a flexible hairspray.
Long Ponytail With Soft Waves
A long ponytail looks sleek but still soft when you add waves. It keeps the neckline open and feels comfortable. It also shows off length in a tidy way.
Secure the ponytail mid-high for a balanced profile. Curl the ponytail in large sections for soft waves. Smooth the top with a small amount of serum.
Natural Afro With Rounded Shape
A rounded afro creates a strong, beautiful silhouette. The shape highlights the face and looks balanced from every angle. It celebrates texture while staying neat.
Pick the roots gently for volume and shape. Use a moisturizing cream to reduce dryness and frizz. Keep edges soft and natural for a modern look.
Defined Twist-Out With Side Part
A twist-out gives definition and stretch to natural hair. A side part adds lift and a flattering frame. It also gives the style a fresh, styled look.
Twist hair in medium sections with cream and gel. Let it dry fully before you unravel. Separate gently with oiled fingers for volume.
Box Braids With Shoulder-Length Cut
Shoulder-length box braids feel light and easy to manage. This length keeps the look neat and reduces tugging. It also pairs well with accessories.
Ask for knotless braids for a softer scalp feel. Keep the ends sealed and trimmed evenly. Style with a half-up bun or side sweep.
Knotless Braids in a High Pony
A braided ponytail is bold and practical. Knotless braids reduce tension and help the style look natural at the roots. The high placement lifts the whole look.
Gather braids high and secure with a strong band. Wrap a few braids around the base for a clean finish. Lay edges softly for a smooth hairline.
Shoulder-Length Wig With Side Bangs
A wig with side bangs frames the face quickly. Shoulder length stays light and easy to style. It is a great option for changing your look without commitment.
Choose a lace front for a natural hairline. Trim the bangs to sit at the cheekbone level. Add a slight curl at the ends for softness.
Messy Top Knot With Loose Tendrils
A messy top knot feels relaxed and cute. Loose tendrils soften the face and add movement. This style is fast and still looks intentional.
Pull hair up and leave some texture at the crown. Twist into a knot and pin loosely. Pull a few strands near the temples and nape.
Claw Clip Twist With Volume
A claw clip twist is trendy and gentle on hair. It adds height and keeps the face open. It also works for many hair lengths and textures.
Twist hair upward and clamp with a large clip. Pull the top slightly for volume. Leave the ends out for a relaxed finish.
What plus size hairstyle looks most flattering in photos?
Styles with soft volume at the crown often photograph well. Side parts, loose waves, and face-framing layers help define features. Keep shine controlled to avoid glare.
Do layers work for plus size hairstyles?
Yes, layers can remove bulk and add movement. Long layers can lengthen the look of the face and neck. Ask for layers that blend smoothly for easy styling.
Are bangs a good idea for plus size hairstyles?
Bangs can look great when they match your face shape and hair texture. Curtain bangs and side bangs feel soft and flexible. Keep bangs light so they do not feel heavy.
What is the easiest everyday plus size hairstyle?
A low bun, claw clip twist, or half-up style feels quick and reliable. These options keep hair off the face and still look styled. Use a small amount of product for hold.
How do I add volume without teasing too much?
Use root mousse and blow-dry with lift at the crown. Try a side part for instant height. Dry shampoo can also add grip and fullness.
Which plus size hairstyles work well for natural hair?
A rounded afro, twist-out, and knotless braids work well. These styles protect texture and show definition. Moisture and gentle handling help the style last longer.
What hairstyle helps reduce the look of a round face?
A deep side part and face-framing layers can help. Longer front pieces and soft waves can create a slimming line. Avoid heavy blunt bangs that cut straight across.
How can I make a ponytail look more polished?
Wrap a strand around the base to hide the elastic. Smooth the top with a light serum or gel. Add waves to the tail for a softer finish.
Do short haircuts work as plus size hairstyles?
Short cuts can look bold and flattering. A layered pixie or pixie bob adds lift and keeps the face open. Ask for texture on top for shape.
How do I choose the right plus size hairstyle for my hair type?
Match the cut to your natural texture and daily routine. Curly hair needs shape that supports curls, while straight hair may need layers for movement. Bring photos and ask your stylist for a plan you can repeat at home.
Conclusion
Plus size hairstyles should fit your lifestyle and make you feel confident. Start with a shape that frames your face, then use simple styling steps to keep it easy.
Save your top three looks from this list and bring them to your next appointment, so you leave the salon with a style you can wear on repeat.