Bangs are the one style update it took me a long time to warm up to. They always felt just a little too risky, high-maintenance, and well, intimidating.
Figuring out how to style them every morning was a big part of my hesitation too. But just as I recently “went off” plain haircuts in favor of styles with more structure and detail, I’ve realized a fringe can make your entire look feel all the better for it.
If you’re looking for a stylish change that frames the face but still offers comfort and ease, here are a few of the essential types of bangs you should know.
1. Curtain Bangs
If you have scrolled through Pinterest at all lately, you have definitely seen this look.
The 70s are having a major moment right now, and this shaggy style is leading the charge. In fact, curtain bangs might just be the most popular pick of the season.
Think of them as heavy, textured bangs that part right down the middle to frame your face like curtains on a window.
It is the effortless “cool girl” look that Brigitte Bardot made famous back in the day.
2. Bumper Bangs
This one is for all my vintage lovers out there. Bumper bangs are the epitome of pin-up style, and you can totally recreate this look at home.
If you already have bangs, just tease the base and curl them with a small round brush before pinning them in place. It is surprisingly simple.
Don’t have bangs? You can still pull this off with longer hair, but I highly recommend checking out the tutorial by Scarlett at Deadly is the Female first.
3. Blunt Bangs
I’m starting with the simplest option on the list.
These bring me back to the days of my mom cutting my hair with kitchen scissors, but the modern version is actually super chic.
A blunt cut means the hair is cut straight across without any layers or elevation. It creates a hard line across the face that creates a serious statement. It looks cute on most people, but just be aware that the bold line might not be for everyone.
Mod Bangs are a stylish variation that typically hits right at the lash line.
4. Wispy Bangs
This is a beautifully soft style that looks good on pretty much anyone.
Think of wispy bangs as a thin layer of textured hair that falls right around the brow line.
The main difference here is that wispy bangs are very thin and soft, whereas textured bangs can be a bit thicker.
5. Textured Bangs
On the opposite end of the spectrum, we have textured bangs.
These are easily one of the most flattering options because they really soften up the face. Instead of a uniform straight line, they are loaded with texture.
Some pieces are longer than others to create a jagged, piecey look that results in a soft and blended line.
6. Asymmetrical Bangs
Asymmetry is actually pretty common right now, and it basically just means lines that are longer on one side than the other.
This is such a fun way to show off your spunky side. However, it can be a bit harsh for some people. I personally feel it looks best when it is softly blended into the rest of the hair.
Just remember that texture is your best friend with this look.
7. Side-Swept Bangs
Side-swept bangs are parted to the side and sweep across the face. They can angle down or not, but the key is keeping them soft and textured.
This style was insanely popular last decade and is slowly phasing out, but I still love a good side-swept fringe. It works so well on my heart-shaped face, and you know what they say about old habits.
I should also mention that these really soften up square faces and are generally flattering on just about everyone.
💡TIP: Start by drying them to the opposite side and flip them outward with a round brush. Once they are dry, shape them back to the side you want. The result is amazing.
8. V Bangs
This one is pretty self-explanatory, right?
This look has been ultra-trendy in gothic subcultures for a while and is finally making its way into the mainstream.
It is a pointed fringe that is bluntly cut. The hair starts shorter on the sides and comes to a longer point in the middle to form a V shape.
9. Faux Bangs
Not ready to take the plunge? There are some sweet ways to fake the look for a day.
This faux bang and bun situation is pretty easy to pull off and ties in that trendy topknot we all love. LipsticknCurls has a great breakdown of how to get this look at home.
If you don’t want to go that far, you can always just grab some clip-in bangs. They are super easy to use and won’t cost you a fortune.
10. Baby Bangs
Whether you call them micro bangs or pixie bangs, this style has been incredibly popular over the last few years.
This look consists of very short, textured bangs that fall way above the eyebrow. It can be a little harsh for some, so it is definitely a love it or hate it kind of vibe.
11. Curved Bangs
Curved bangs are ultra-popular because they frame the face so well.
They typically have a blunt edge but are cut longer on the sides than they are in the middle.
A cool way to achieve this shape is to pull all the hair to the middle of the face, pinch it, and cut. When you drop the hair, the bangs have that perfect curve.
12. Face-Framing Fringe
Sometimes you just want a few soft wispies around your face without cutting actual bangs. In that case, a long face-framing fringe is the perfect option for you.
These are soft, add volume, and contour the face without the commitment.
13. Swoop Bangs
Swoop bangs are similar to the side-swept look but tend to be longer hair that “swoops” to the side rather than having a sharper angle.
14. Scene Bangs
Scene bangs were extremely popular during the “emo kid” era and were a staple of the look.
They are similar to side-swept bangs but are much thicker and have a lot more texture. They typically start higher on the head to blend with the shorter layers of the cut.
These should definitely be cut with a razor to get that maximum texture. A teasing brush and heavy hairspray are a must.
Final Thoughts
No matter what type of face shape or hair texture you have, you will probably love having bangs.
They soften the face, accentuate your good features, and cover any imperfections. Plus, they instantly make you look younger. They are a solid option for pretty much anyone.
With this guide, you should be able to find the perfect style and know exactly how to communicate it to your stylist. I promise it will help!