The Clavicut: Between Collarbone and Shoulder Length

What Exactly is a Clavicut?

Let’s start with the basics. The term “clavicut” is a portmanteau of “clavicle” (your collarbone) and “cut.” It specifically refers to hair that is cut to graze or rest just at or slightly below the collarbone. This typically places the length between 14 to 16 inches from the crown, depending on your height and neck length, landing it squarely in that magical zone above the shoulders.

It’s crucial to distinguish the clavicut from a long bob (lob) or standard shoulder-length hair. A lob generally ends above the collarbone, at the jawline or neck. Shoulder-length hair can often be ambiguous, sometimes catching on the shoulders and appearing bulky. The clavicut is intentional. It’s the Goldilocks length—not too short, not too long, but just right. This precision allows it to frame the face beautifully, highlight the neck and décolletage, and offer styling options that shorter lengths can’t.

Why the Clavicut is Universally Flattering

The power of the clavicut lies in its geometry and placement. By ending at the collarbone, it draws the eye horizontally across one of the body’s most elegant and structured areas. This creates a natural, slimming effect that elongates the neck and emphasizes the shoulders. It’s a trick stylists have used for decades.

Furthermore, this length works with almost every face shape. For round faces, it provides length without the weight of longer hair. For square faces, soft layers around the jaw can help soften angles. For oval faces, it’s a classic enhancer. For heart-shaped faces, it adds balance below the chin. The key is in the customization—the baseline length is a perfect canvas for adding face-framing layers, subtle texture, or a bold blunt line.

From a practical standpoint, the clavicut is a dream. It’s long enough to pull back into a ponytail or a chic bun, yet short enough to dry and style faster than mid-back length hair. It also avoids the awkward “growing-out” phase of shorter cuts, making it a lower-maintenance commitment.

How to Ask Your Stylist for the Perfect Clavicut

Communication is key to walking out of the salon with the cut of your dreams. Don’t just say “shoulder-length.” Use the specific term “clavicut” and point to where you want the ends to fall. Bring photos, but ensure the models in the pictures have a similar hair texture to yours—a clavicut on fine, straight hair will differ from one on thick, curly hair.

Be prepared to discuss these details with your stylist:

Weight Line: Do you want a solid, blunt cut for a modern, graphic look? Or would you prefer textured ends for movement and softness?

Layering: Light layers can add volume at the crown and reduce bulk for thick hair. Face-framing layers are almost always a good idea to personalize the cut.

Texture Consideration: If you have curly or wavy hair, your stylist will likely cut it dry or with your natural texture in mind, as shrinkage will affect the final length. The goal is for your curls to spring up to that perfect clavicle point.

Styling Your Clavicut: From Day to Night

The versatility of the clavicut shines in its styling potential. This length holds styles beautifully without being too heavy.

Everyday Chic: For a quick, polished look, blow-dry with a round brush, focusing on turning the ends under for a classic flip or outward for a slight retro vibe. A dab of smoothing cream or oil on the ends will enhance shine and definition.

Effortless Waves: This is the clavicut’s signature style. Use a medium-barrel curling iron or wand to create loose, alternating waves. Break them up with your fingers and finish with a texturizing spray for that coveted “I woke up like this” glamour.

Sleek and Straight: A flat iron can give you a sharp, sophisticated blunt look. Protect your hair with a heat protectant and use the iron in small sections for a glass-like finish.

Accessorize: The length is perfect for accessories. Try a deep side part with a statement clip, or use delicate pins to pull back one side. Headbands and scarves also sit beautifully at this length.

Is the Clavicut Right for You? Considerations Before the Chop

While the clavicut is remarkably adaptable, a few considerations can ensure it’s a love-at-first-sight relationship. If you have very thick, heavy hair, you may need more layering to prevent a triangular shape. Those with fine hair will love the instant volume and body this length can provide, especially with a few strategic layers.

Think about your lifestyle. If you’re an athlete who needs to wear hair up tightly every day, ensure the shorter layers (if you get them) are long enough to be captured in a ponytail. Most importantly, consider your willingness to style. While it’s lower-maintenance than longer hair, the clavicut often looks its best with a quick blow-dry or touch-up to showcase its shape.

Maintaining Your Clavicut: Keeping the Magic Alive

To keep your clavicut looking sharp and healthy, regular trims are non-negotiable. Schedule an appointment every 8 to 10 weeks to maintain the precise length and prevent split ends. This frequency is often less than needed for longer hair, as you’re cutting off damage more regularly.

Invest in good products. A quality heat protectant is a must. A volumizing mousse or root-lift spray can be a game-changer for fine hair. For curly clavicuts, a defining cream or gel will help sculpt your curls beautifully at this length. Remember, healthy hair is the foundation of any great cut, so incorporate a nourishing hair mask into your weekly routine.

The clavicut is more than just a haircut; it’s a strategic style choice that offers elegance, ease, and endless style. It bridges the gap between short and long, bold and conservative, high-maintenance and carefree. By landing at one of the body’s most graceful points, it doesn’t just change your look—it enhances your natural silhouette.

Ready for a change that feels both fresh and timeless? Point to your collarbone at your next salon appointment and step into the perfectly balanced world of the clavicut.