Fringe Benefits

What Bangs Will Work for You?

Bangs in America, or a fringe in the U.K., are strands of hair that fall over the front hairline to cover the forehead to various lengths.

They have been around and popular since the time of Cleopatra. Whatever you call them, they’re HOT right now! In HairLine’s January blog on What’s Trending in Hair ~ 2021, we talked about this year’s hair fashion favorites, some of which involved the latest “It” styles in bangs. I want to take that conversation further here and talk about who can wear a fringe and what goes into finding the right choice for you.

The answer to who can wear a fringe? might come as a surprise.

My conversations with clients about bangs often begin with them saying something like “What can I do differently? I’m ready for a change!” This then invariably begs the questions, “Do you think I can wear a bang? Am I too old? Would it work for my features?” The truth is that almost everyone can rock some version of a fringe.

The only time bangs really don’t work is when there is an idiosyncratic pattern to your natural growth direction at the hairline. If hair grows off to the right, to the left, or towards the back of the head, the hair most likely will go its own way and won’t lay correctly with a fringe cut. For everyone else, it can definitely be done beautifully within the right set of considerations.

Like most styles, a lot of factors go into finding the perfect cut ~ shape of the face, nose, jawline, and, with bangs especially, The Eyes.

I have to be honest. I have worked my entire career at “cutting to the eyes.” Eyes are the windows to the soul. A fringe is the valance that brings vitality to the eyes and lights up the face with a youthful glow.

So, what’s new this year?

As we discussed in January’s blog, the 70s are back in a big way in bangs that run the gamut from relaxed, wispy, and wild to blunt and severe looks for women of all ages.  We’re seeing soft, layered, tousled fringes, “big and curly” fronds, and sleek, angular statements, all with a retro “cool girl” vibe.

 Here are some of my favorites among those front and center on this Spring’s runways:

  • Curtain ~ Definitely the number one pick this season, curtain bangs bring immediate attention to the eyes.
  • Shaggy  ~ With shags all the rage, these bangs are everywhere. Retro versions arc the eyes and dissolve into softer tails.
  • “Piecey” ~ These long and wavy wisps are great for breaking up large foreheads, styling thinner hair, and adding variety to thicker tresses.
  • Big and Curly ~ Playful, long ringlets carry the framing volume around your face and add balance to a rounded, curly ‘do.
  • “Micro” ~ These super-short bangs bring a modern edgy severity that pairs well with some of our trendy, minimalist wardrobe pieces in neutrals and angular silhouettes.
  • Textured ~ These feathered, messy, wavy bangs give a short cut loads of personality and add dimension to thinner hair. Think Cool Girl Short Cut.
  • Side Swept ~ A retro return creates a timeless elegance that puts the high beams on eyes and cheekbones.
  • Blunt Classics ~ This dramatic style mainstay loves a structured bob reminiscent of the 20s or a sharp collarbone or jawbone cut.

I believe there is a fringe here for nearly everyone.

Provide a photo of bangs you like to your salon’s stylist to start the consultation on finding the best fringe for you. Don’t forget to ask about any styling products you’ll need to maintain or work with your new look.

My ongoing thanks for your interest in HairLine. You always amaze me with your insightful comments and requests for interesting future content. Please keep your ideas coming here and continue your meaningful contributions to our HairLine conversation.

Regards,

Kenny