Where precision cutting meets gemstone-inspired elegance.
When you search for “marquise shape,” you’ll mostly find diamonds – tapered ovals with pointed ends. Why? Because originally, this shape was created to cut gems. Now, hairstylists are taking notes. The marquise layers haircut borrows that same contour and elegance to create a face-framing shape that feels tailored and quietly luxurious.
@emmachenartistry
So, what does this haircut actually look like? Think of a slim oval that tapers to a soft point at both ends. Translated into hair, this means volume that flares gently around the cheekbones and narrows toward the forehead and chin. Such a face-framing effect feels intentional but not forced.
@andrematheushair
This haircut has a clean silhouette that flatters the bone structure without feeling too sculpted. It’s especially kind to oval and square faces, but honestly, it plays well with most shapes and textures. Straight and wavy hair types will find it easiest to style, and the cut shines best on medium to long lengths.
The layers themselves are full, seamless, and longer than you’ll see in cuts like the butterfly or octopus cut. They give movement without sacrificing length, which is a big plus if you tend to flinch when the stylist reaches for the scissors. You still get that long hair look, but it’s not just hanging there. It moves, it bounces, and it has structure.
There’s weight and swish through the top of the head, and a lightness around the face that makes eyes, cheekbones, and lips stand out naturally. It’s a subtle shift away from the deliberately piecey looks like the wolf cut and shag. Marquise layers feel sleeker and more grown-up. You’re not depriving yourself of volume or committing to aggressive tapering. This cut keeps the drama under control.
@melanieartistry
That said, marquise layers aren’t completely low-maintenance. The cut has built-in bounce and volume, but styling is what brings it all together and gives that gemstone-like polish. A center part works best to match the symmetry of the layers, and a soft blowout is the ideal way to bring out the fullness.
Here’s how to style it at home:
If you like a layered cut with soft structure and natural movement, marquise layers just might be the rare gem your hair has been waiting for. For more refined but effortless shapes, you might also be into the hush cut or the kitty cut.
