Round and square may seem like disparate shapes, but they can often come together in a face that is rounded at top and the sides, yet finishes in a distinctly square jawline. Think of it as being blessed with the best of both worlds.

There is one cutting style that can seamlessly unify the strengths of both shapes: layers. According to YouBeauty Hair Advisor Guido, layers will soften the chiseled contours of the jawline, while at the same time adding depth and structure to the rounder top and middle sections.

QUIZ: What’s Your Face Shape?

Getty ImagesLucy Liu
Lucy Liu

If you have straight or wavy hair

Since straight and wavy hair types typically fall against the face, there’s a propensity for the rounded square shape to make the hair rest in a triangle shape. The key is to cut lots of fine layers into the bulk of hair for movement above the chin that touches various points of the face, accentuating the structure near the top of your face that can otherwise be overwhelmed.

A sexy, side-swept bang is another way to add movement towards the top half of the head, as are wispy bangs that extend just a bit further than the end of the eyebrows, to bring eyes and lashes into the spotlight.

 

Getty ImagesLeighton Meester
Leighton Meester

If you have curly hair

Layers make the most of your naturally curly texture by staggering volume and balance throughout the hair. If you like a longer length, start layers below the chin, so that the weight of hair draws curls more vertical, emphasizing your cheekbones. If your cut is shorter, cut layers so that they graze the cheekbones, bringing a sense of softness to the face.

 

MORE: Celebrities with Square face shapes

 

Layers should be cut in a circular style to contrast the strong angle of your jawbone. Circular layers also give curls more movement, and bring balancing volume to the crown of the head. Also try experimenting with a deep or asymmetrical side part to add more angles to the rounded edges of your shape. If you’re a fan of the look, make sure it’s parted as you wear it when you get a cut, or else risk too-short fly-away pieces on the sides.

Getty ImagesMo’Nique
Mo'Nique

If you have highly textured hair

Rounded square shapes are best complemented by volume at and just beneath the crown, so cutting silky layers that create movement in this area will emphasize your best assets. For short cuts, the top sides of the crown should have slightly longer strands than the sides of the head, to help balance out your strong jawline and to make sure the round curves of your face don’t override your features.

Meanwhile, medium and longer lengths shine brightest with slimming layers at the sides of the face, so that eyes and lips take center stage. There is only one length to refrain from cutting a blunt edge at—the chin—as this will make your strands lose its natural wave pattern, and instead cling to the round-meets-square shape of your face.

 

MORE: The Best Makeup for Your Face Shape