The Marquise Layer Haircut Is This Season’s Diamond in the Rough

Looking for a layered haircut that frames the face, highlights the cheekbones, softens the jaw and complements 90s supermodel blowouts? Look no further than the marquise layer haircut, named after the iconic diamond shape often seen on elegant engagement rings. We asked experts all about the trending hairstyle. The bottom line: “You really can’t go wrong with this cut because who doesn’t love effortless volume and movement?” says hairstylist Crystal Virgen. More on the haircut, ahead.

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What is the marquise layer haircut?

“The marquise layer haircut is a sculpted layering technique that creates a diamond-like shape—similar to a marquise-cut diamond,” says hairstylist and founder/CEO of THIC Hair Co Morgan Tully. “It’s designed to frame the face beautifully, add movement, and give volume through the crown while keeping length and softness through the ends.” She describes it as “giving off a classic 90s supermodel hair look.”

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Virgen notes that the marquise layer haircut is a more modern, refined version of the butterfly cut minus the choppy layers. Instead, it features long, bouncy layers, which Tully says have made a huge comeback recently. “My clients are not afraid to go shorter to achieve this look. I always make sure to create super soft, textured layers around the face,” says Tully. “This creates a soft opening around the eyes and cheekbones while framing the lower half of the face in a really elegant way.”

Who is the marquise layer haircut best for?

Tully says this cut is perfect for anyone who wants that effortless, bouncy look without going too short. Additionally, the pro notes that it’s a great look for anyone trying to grow out curtain bangs. “It beautifully opens up the face, making it an ideal choice for highlighting high cheekbones or softening the jawline. As you can imagine, it’s a winner for oval and square face shapes—but truly works on all.” Similarly to the money piece, Virgen notes that this diamond shape can help draw attention to your face, accentuating the eyes, cheeks and lips.

“Much like the marquise diamond, this cut can be anyone’s best friend—suiting fine to thick hair, straight to wavy textures, but is best for medium to long lengths,” says Virgen. However, she notes that it can suit any hair density when done right. “Yes, even you fine-haired girlies,” she declares. “If you have thin, flat hair but crave volume, this cut is a must!”

Blowouts are where the marquise layer haircut shines

“I think it’s important to share that this shape cannot be fully achieved without a proper blowout. The style really comes to life with volume and direction through the layers,” says Tully. That’s not to say you have to do a full blowout daily, but it’s worth noting that’s the best way to achieve the full marquise diamond effect.

To get the perfect blowout with this cut, Tully recommends using K18’s new AstroLift ($46) reparative volume spray with a round brush when blow drying, then setting Velcro rollers through the bangs and crown for added bounce. Finish it with THIC Daily Hair Perfecting Oil ($42) on the ends to add shine and smooth away any flyaways.