Curtain bangs are a hairstyle trend that has returned, but it’s important to remember that they have never disappeared from the beauty scene. With their face-framing elegance and versatility, they are often considered a great way to update your look without making a major change. This low-maintenance hairstyle suits a variety of face shapes, is easy to style, and grows out easily. If you’re thinking about getting curtain bangs or want to know how to cut and style them, this detailed guide will give you all the information you need.
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What are curtain bangs?
Curtain bangs are soft, thin bangs that are parted in the middle and flow down the sides of the face, much like curtains. Unlike traditional blunt bangs that cut straight across the forehead, curtain bangs offer a more natural and effortless look, giving off a relaxed yet polished vibe. Their slightly longer length makes them more forgiving than blunt bangs, making them easier to grow out if you change your mind later.
Curtain bangs typically vary in length from cheekbone to jawline length, allowing them to seamlessly blend into the rest of the hair as they grow. This gives them a more lived-in, casual aesthetic, and makes them an ideal option for those who want bangs without the hassle of frequent trims.
Why are curtain bangs trending?
The popularity of curtain bangs has skyrocketed in recent years, but they first made a splash in the 1970s. Celebrities like Brigitte Bardot, Farrah Fawcett, and Goldie Hawn became icons for the style during that era, often pairing them with voluminous waves or chic updos. Now, thanks to social media influencers, hairstylists, and celebrities like Dakota Johnson, Alexa Chung, and Margot Robbie, this retro trend is back with a modern twist.
But why is it making a comeback? Let’s break it down:
- Nostalgia meets modernity: Curtain bangs are reminiscent of the golden days of the 70s, which blends seamlessly with today’s more relaxed and “effortless chic” beauty trends.
- Face-framing perfection: Curtain bangs can soften facial features, accentuate your best features, and are suitable for almost any face shape.
- Low maintenance: Unlike other types of bangs, curtain bangs don’t require constant maintenance. They can grow out into face-framing layers, saving you from frequent salon visits.
- Versatility: Curtain bangs are incredibly versatile. Whether you have long, short, straight, wavy, or curly hair, they can be adapted to suit your style.
- Instant makeover: Getting curtain bangs can dramatically change your look without having to cut down on the length of your hair. It’s a great way to change things up without having to cut your hair.
Are curtain bangs right for you?
One of the most appealing things about curtain bangs is how adaptable they are to different face shapes and hair textures. However, it’s important to take your face shape and your hair texture into account when deciding whether curtain bangs will work for you.
Curtain bangs for different face shapes
- Oval faces: People with oval faces have the luckiest of all when it comes to curtain bangs. The symmetrical shape of an oval face means that bangs will naturally accentuate their features without requiring much alteration.
- Round faces: Curtain bangs can be a game-changer for people with round faces. Long, face-framing styles can elongate the face, giving it a more balanced look.
- Square faces: Curtain bangs soften the angles of a square face. The slight sweep of the bangs helps draw attention away from the sharp jawline, creating a softer, more delicate look.
- Heart-shaped face: If you have a heart-shaped face, curtain bangs are ideal. They balance out a wide forehead and draw attention to the eyes and cheekbones, creating a softer, more balanced look.
Curtain bangs for different hair types
- Thick hair: Curtain bangs look good with thick hair because it helps balance the overall volume. If you have thick hair, you may want to keep the bangs a little longer so they blend in better with the rest of your hair.
- Thin hair: People with thin hair can also have curtain bangs, but may want to use volumizing products to give the bangs more lift and texture. Opting for thinner layers can also add dimension and prevent the bangs from looking too flat.
- Curly Hair: Yes, you can have curtain bangs with long hair! When cutting curtain bangs, it is important to consider the natural curl pattern. A professional stylist can cut them long to take the spring factor into account, ensuring they are not too short once they are up.
How to Cut Curtain Bangs at Home
While it’s always advisable to seek the help of a professional hairstylist, you can try cutting your curtain bangs at home with a few careful steps. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Gather your tools
You’ll need the following:
- A pair of sharp, professional hair-cutting scissors (avoid using regular scissors as they can damage your hair).
- A fine-toothed comb.
- Hair clips to separate your hair into sections.
- A spray bottle filled with water to lightly dampen your hair (optional).
- For style, use a blow dryer and a round brush.
Step 2: Divide your hair into sections
Begin by parting your hair down the middle, as this will serve as the foundation for your curtain bangs. Then, separate the front sections of your hair from the arch of each eyebrow to the part. This is the hair you’ll be cutting. Secure the rest of your hair with clips to keep it out of the way.
Step 3: Determine the length
Decide how long you want your curtain bangs to be. If you’re cutting bangs for the first time, it’s best to start with longer bangs (around the jaw) and trim gradually to avoid cutting too much off. You can always cut more bangs, but you can’t grow the length back once it’s cut!
Step 4: Cut at an angle
Comb the section of hair you’ve separated for the bangs. Holding the hair between your fingers, angle the scissors at about 45 degrees and begin trimming from the center outward, toward your cheekbones. This diagonal cutting will create the signature “swoop” of curtain bangs. Repeat the same process on the other side to create the mirror effect.
Remember: take your time and trim in small sections. You can always cut more bangs if you need to.
Step 5: Texturize the ends
Once you’ve trimmed the length, you can soften the ends by point-cutting them. This technique involves holding the scissors vertically and cutting small pieces off the ends of the bangs so they don’t look too blunt or coarse.
Step 6: Style your curtain bangs
Blow-dry your curtain bangs with a round brush, lifting the bangs up and back to create volume. For a more natural look, you can let them air dry and apply a little texturizing spray to maintain a light, airy feel.
How to Style Curtain Bangs
Curtain bangs are loved for their effortless look, but styling them can take a bit of practice. Here’s how to get that perfect swoop every time:
- Blow-drying tips: After washing your hair, blow-dry your bangs using a round brush. Be sure to blow-dry the bangs away from your face to create volume and the signature swoop effect.
- Use a flat iron for sleek bangs: If you prefer a sleek look, a flat iron can help smooth out any frizz or knots. Use a flat iron to curl the ends of the bangs slightly outward for a soft, polished finish.
- Go for the messy look: For a more casual, tousled vibe, use a texturizing spray to enhance your hair’s natural texture. Let your bangs air dry, and run your fingers through them to create a piecey, unfinished look.
- Dry shampoo for volume: Curtain bangs can sometimes get oily quicker than the rest of your hair. Use dry shampoo to refresh your bangs and add a little volume to the roots.
- Accessories: You can easily pin your curtain bangs back if you want a change. A cute hair clip or bobby pin can help keep them in place for a more polished look.
Maintenance tips
- Regular trims: To keep your curtain bangs looking fresh, get them trimmed every 6 to 8 weeks. This keeps them from getting too long and blending in too much with the rest of your hair.
- Wash your bangs more often: If you have oily skin or you touch your bangs often, they can get greasy quicker than the rest of your hair. Simply washing your bangs between regular wash days can keep them looking like new.
- Consider your hair texture: If your hair is naturally curly or wavy, styling your bangs may require more effort. Using a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer or embracing your natural curls with a curl-defining product can help.
Curtain bangs aren’t just a trend—they’re a timeless and versatile hairstyle that works for a variety of face and hair types. Whether you’re looking for a way to change up your style without cutting your hair or want to experiment with a retro look, curtain bangs may be the perfect choice for you. Easy to style, low-maintenance, and always chic, this hairstyle is forever.
Are you thinking about getting curtain bangs? Let us know what you think in the comments and share your favorite curtain bangs looks!
