Unlocking the Bangs Code: A Guide to Flattering Fringes for Every Face Shape
Depending on who you ask, bangs are either an amazing idea or a terrible one. The problem is when you say "bangs," a lot of people's minds go right to thick, cut-straight-across fringe with no definition or shape. In reality, there are so many different haircuts with bangs out there to flatter every type of hair length and texture. Bangs can be a chic and stylish way to complement your face shape, and have a similar effect to contour in makeup when it comes to hair styling. They are generally worn at four different points on the face: above the brows, at eye level, at cheekbone level, and at the jawline.
I am here to tell you – bangs can look good on pretty much everyone. But if you want to make sure your fringe doesn't turn out to be a disaster, keep your face shape and features you want to enhance in mind:
Square or heart-shaped faces look best with wispier, feathered fringe to add softness.
Oblong face shapes are a perfect match for blunt-cut bangs.
Round faces can get added dimension from side-swept or curtain bangs.
Oval-shaped faces can pull off just about any type of bang.
Here are some of the best types of bangs to show your hairstylist as inspiration this year:
Made famous by Bridget Bardot in the '70s, Curtain Bangs are a feathered cut that creates a mussed-up, cool-girl look. Recently, one of my clients wanted some sort of bang, “sort of low maintenance that works with her face shape and is fairly user-friendly to style." We went with a take on a curtain bang curling under toward the face, and then once parted, taking each side and blowing out and away.
Then there are Bottle Neck Bangs. As its name suggests, these face framers are shaped in a bottleneck curve that's cut shorter at the top and cascades to longer pieces that skim around the eye and cheek line. They're like the new bang universally flattering across face shapes. A middle part works best for this look.
When you think of bangs, Blunt Bangs are probably the kind that immediately pop into your head. They're cut straight across your forehead and don't have any layers. Make sure bangs lay flat and smooth with a top-tested frizz-control product that can keep flyaways at bay while keeping hair looking shiny.
Don't think textured hair works well with bangs? Think again. Curly Bangs are typically cut longer, so that hair won't shrink up your forehead as it curls. Emphasize natural texture using a curl cream. Start with a dime-sized amount for fine, thin hair types and a quarter-sized amount for thicker, coarser hair types. Gently smooth onto hair beginning below the roots so you don’t lose volume.
Side Bangs sweep across your forehead in an elegant way to create angles on round faces; this bang works at eye level, cheekbone, and jawline. Dry bangs from left to right with a blow-dryer, following the shape of the head. I like to use a combination of wet brush and a medium-sized round brush to get a smooth and polished finish.
Less committal, Layered Bangs blend into your hair and have tons of different lengths, which means you can style them however you want — you can part them down the middle, have them lay straight, or throw them to the side. They'll fare a bit better if you style them with some sort of hair dryer brush. If on the longer side, you can go for a bigger size brush and if they are a bit shorter you can go for a smaller size brush.
Choppy Bangs have a little bit more texture than blunt bangs, and they're typically cut at varying lengths to give bangs more definition. The edgy cut is typically styled straight to emphasize the layered length. Just pair a heat protectant with a hair straightener.
Wispy Bangs are light and fine. They typically have a lot of feathering on the ends, adding to their barely there, soft look. These are a great option for someone with minimal density who appreciates low maintenance. This bang is soft and stops at the brows. Use a detangling comb and dry bangs flat using low heat and airflow.
If you have wavy hair, you can totally let your texture shine through your bangs. Don't worry about blow-drying — let your hair do its thing and embrace your natural texture. Just slick on a leave-in hair conditioner to keep hair feeling smooth and to boost the bend of waves.
Baby Bangs, think traditional blunt bangs, but smaller. Unlike many bangs, they're cut somewhere in the middle of your forehead. If you're hoping to try something new and unique, these bangs may be perfect for you. They require some maintenance, but the end result can be well worth it. Wear them straight down or to the side when the occasion suits. Polish off the ends by running a quick flat iron over them, then letting cool to your preferred side.
Bangs can truly transform a hairstyle, adding dimension, style, and personality. By considering your face shape and desired look, you can find the perfect bangs to complement your features and elevate your overall appearance. Plus with the spring and summer coming it’s a great way to wear your hair up and still have a little something around your face to frame and highlight your best features. Whether you opt for classic blunt bangs, trendy curtain bangs, or playful choppy bangs, embrace the versatility and fun that bangs can bring to your hairstyle.
Come visit us at Salon DeZEN, we’ll help you find the best bangs to suit your face shape, and you’ll leave looking and feeling fabulous!
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