How to Ask for the Ultra-Flattering Marquise Layers Haircut, According to Stylists

It can be tough trying to find a haircut that maintains length, adds movement and overall looks universally flattering—at least when you have a distinct face shape (where are my round-faced peeps at?) Luckily, I found the next big blowout that works on most face shapes *and* keeps your long, luscious lacks in place. Let me introduce you to marquise layers. I tapped two hairstylists to learn more about the buzzy cut and how to achieve it. Plus, all the tips and tricks on how to style it once you get home. 

• Nicole Petty is a hair expert and brand director at Milk & Blush based in Cardiff, Wales. With a background in fashion and beauty, she’s passionate about blending creativity and strategy to inspire self-expression. Her commitment to wellness influences her professional and personal life, driving her belief that feeling good inside and out is the key to true confidence.
• Emily Safran Wands is a hairstylist and owner of LAHH Salon in Florida. She has 12 years of experience in the industry and attended the Aveda Institute of Soho Manhattan. She has previously worked at New York Fashion Week and specializes in style cuts, color services and extensions. 

According to Google Trends, marquise layers are the top trending haircut in the past week, with the style being searched more than ever in 2025 (as of May 20, 2025). “Marquise layers add subtle structure and body while maintaining a long silhouette. It’s a low-maintenance cut that grows out beautifully and is incredibly versatile—whether you wear it as a sleek style or live-in texture,” says Wands. Safe to say a layered haircut is in and usual choppy cuts like kitty cut and sleek glossy locks are a thing of the past. 

If you’re looking for more movement and bounce, you should consider getting a marquise layers haircut. Since the trendy look doesn’t sacrifice length, the experts say it’s best for medium to long locks. As for hair types/textures, they also mention it works for thick and/or straight, wavy and loose curls. “Layering can add bounce to counteract heaviness,” adds Petty. 

And of course, it suits those with oval or square face shapes as it draws attention and balances out your facial features. However, Petty notes it can work for heart- and round-shaped faces, too. “The layers add length to shorter faces and add framing to accentuate cheekbones and jawline,” she says. 

A stylist will tailor the haircut depending on your hair type, texture or length. Just make sure you communicate and consider bringing in hair inspiration that’s similar to your own. Petty also suggests asking for long tapered layers that frame the face and are shaped like a marquise cut gem. You should also mention that you want to maintain length while adding definition and movement using layers.

“Stylists will start at the front by taking a small vertical section on each side, using the chin or collarbone as a reference point depending on the length of the hair. Then they’ll cut at a soft angle that curves slightly inwards towards the jawline to create the desired marquise shape,” explains Petty. “They would work from front to back, over-direct sections forward slightly while layering to preserve length and add softness. The stylist would also cut internal layers to ensure they flow with the shape and use a deep cutting technique to create the feathery texture needed for a natural finish.”

It starts with prepping your hair. As Megan Thee Stallion once said: it’s all about the body-ody-ody. Apply a heat protectant, volumizing mousse or leave-in conditioner. Then, use a round brush and hair dryer combo (or a blow dryer brush) to create bounce and volume. If you’re looking for more oomf, Wands suggest setting the look with velcro or hot rollers for a voluminous ‘90s-inspired blowout. Let it cool before unraveling, gently brushing through with a wide-tooth comb before applying hairspray to set the look all day. One more thing: The experts recommend staying consistent with your trims as it will help maintain the layers and face-framing pieces. 

Consider adding some color to your new haircut like Zendaya above. Petty recommends a subtle balayage that will add movement and definition. 

You got the volume down, now it’s time to add some shine to your strands. Wands suggests marquise layers with a center part and a glossed finish. “It’s editorial, luxe and great for polished styling,” she adds.