If you’re looking for a haircut that adds effortless volume, movement, and the perfect face-framing effect, the marquise layers might just be the game-changer you need
There’s nothing like a good haircut to make you feel instantly put together. The right style can highlight your best features, add movement, and even make daily styling easier. That’s why the marquise layers haircut is capturing attention, offering an ultra-flattering, face-framing effect that elevates any look. With its ability to sculpt and define features, this style does all the heavy lifting, ensuring hair falls in just the right places.
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What Are Marquise Layers?
Inspired by the marquise shape—somewhere between a diamond and an oval, and currently a favorite in engagement rings—this haircut is all about structure and definition. The layers taper to a point at the forehead and chin, softly cupping the cheeks to create a sculpted yet natural effect. Unlike the feathery, ‘90s-inspired layers, marquise layers are heavier at the top with more weight throughout, giving the hair a fuller, more voluminous feel. This creates a sophisticated shape that enhances the eyes, cheekbones, and lips, adding bounce and movement without sacrificing sleekness. The best part? This style holds beautifully for days, making it as effortless as it is stunning—it’s no surprise that YouTube influencer Bella Sabo and models Elise Zecevic and Kiana Flanet have all been spotted rocking the look.
How to Get the Marquise Layers
A great haircut sets the foundation, but styling is what truly brings marquise layers to life. To achieve the full-bodied, sculpted look, it’s all about adding lift, volume, and movement.
The Cut
When asking your hairstylist for marquise layers, request long and medium-length layers that blend softly throughout the hair. The key is to avoid anything too short or choppy—this cut thrives on smooth, weighty layers that contour the face while maintaining a sleek finish.
Prepping the Hair
Start with the right products to build volume and ensure your layers hold their shape. A light leave-in spray conditioner will keep hair hydrated, while a volumizing spray applied directly to the roots—every few inches around the scalp—helps create lift. For extra body, work a volumizing lotion through the mid-lengths and ends before styling.
The Blow-Dry Technique
To achieve that signature lift, begin by rough-drying hair until it’s about 80% dry. Then, section off the top layer and focus on the underneath first. Using a round brush and a hairdryer with a nozzle attachment, glide the brush under each section while directing the airflow from above to smooth and shape the hair. For those with natural waves or curls, the goal is to blow-dry the hair sleek while still maintaining bounce.
For the front layers, start by blow-drying forward before switching direction and brushing back—this creates the perfect root lift and a soft flick, giving the style a touch of ‘70s or ‘80s glamour.
Setting for Long-Lasting Volume
To lock in the shape, set hair with large velcro rollers after blow-drying. This step is crucial for achieving lasting bounce and movement. Let the rollers cool before releasing them to maximize the lift.
Final Styling Touches
Once the rollers are out, use a wide-tooth comb to gently separate and smooth the layers while maintaining volume. Mist with hairspray, then flip your head upside down and brush through for a perfectly tousled effect. For that signature marquise shape, part hair down the center, pinch the top layers to encourage the pointed effect at the forehead, and shape the hair at the cheekbones by pinching and spraying it into place.
Photos and Featured Image: TANIELLE JAI, BELLA SABO, EMMA CHEN (via Instagram)
