There comes a point in every woman’s life when she asks herself, “Should I get bangs?” And for the most part… the answer is usually no. Micro-fringes and heavy bangs can be super flattering but are always a lot of work, plus they can take an entire year to grow back out.
However, if you have your heart set on bangs but you’re not ready for the full commitment, curtain bangs might be perfect for you.
This gorgeous hairstyle isn’t your typical ‘blunt’ bangs. They’re more tapered and open in the middle to frame your forehead. They’re also a lot easier to grow out if you end up not loving the style.
What are Curtain Bangs?
Curtain Bangs are an iconic look from the ’60s and ’70s. They were first made famous by actresses like Goldie Hawn. They get their name because they essentially act like curtains around your face.
Curtain bangs split in the middle to frame your face on both sides like an inverted V. To help achieve this effortless look, your stylist will usually cut slightly longer than the average fringe, with pieces closer to the cheekbone longer.
It’s the perfect option for those looking to add texture to their hair with the commitment of full-blown bangs.
Who are curtain bangs best for?
While curtain bangs were made famous years ago, they’re having their comeback! We’ve seen actresses like Dakota Johnson, Selena Gomez, Nicole Richie, and Halle Barry all sporting curtain bangs recently.
The beauty of this hairstyle is that it can look good on anyone. Whether your hair is straight, curly, long, or short, the right curtain bangs can help you change up your look and emphasize your beautiful face. They help to cover up your hairline while the soft, swooping style helps elongate your face.
Essentially, anyone can pull off curtain bangs, as long as they know how to style them for their face.
How do you style curtain bangs?
To achieve the best look with your curtain bangs, it’s best to use a round brush and blow dryer. Christina (@hairgoddessNY) recommends a medium-barrel round brush. She then recommends blow drying your bangs away from your face, backwards.
Start with damp to dry hair, but slightly damp hair will help set the look.
When they’re dry, she recommends using a dry texturizing spray to pinch the bangs into place. Finish with hairspray to set!
The tools you’ll need to style curtain bangs
You can also style or ‘refresh’ your curtain bangs with your favorite hot tools. With your curling iron, clamp your hair lightly inside and twist it towards your face. Wait a few seconds and release. Repeat on the other side.
If you want less volume, you can use your straightener to style your curtain bangs. This will give you a much ‘sleeker’ look. For this style, hold each section of your hair upwards, then while holding the flat iron horizontally, clamp your hair and twist your wrist away from your face.
Then repeat on the other side.
How to style your curtain bangs without heat
Lastly, the best part about this hairstyle is that you can also style your curtain bangs without heat! We love recommending heatless curls to all of our girls – all you need is this set from Kitsch or these heatless rollers from Babyliss.
Sleep with your rollers in and wake up to perfectly styled hair.
Curtain Bangs Don’s and Don’ts
Curtain Bangs Do’s:
- · Ask your stylist! Your stylist will know which style and length of curtain bangs will best suit you. They’ll also be able to help you learn how to style them when you leave the salon.
- · Make sure you’re using high-quality products to protect your hair. We love this shampoo and conditioner set that helps protect against damage and breakage.
- · Book your trims. Bangs grow fast, make sure they always look great by booking your next appointment every 5-6 weeks.
Curtain Bangs Don’ts:
- · Cut them yourself. They may seem simple but anytime you attempt to cut your own hair, things can go wrong and you’ll end up in the stylist chair anyway! Trust your hairdresser the first time around and you’ll have a much better experience with bangs.
- · Be scared of the round brush. This will be your new styling BFF.
- · Get curtain bangs if you’re not prepared for the little daily upkeep. They’re not nearly as bad as a full fringe, but you will want to take the time to style them each day. Trust us, it’s worth the extra five minutes!
Bangs are back! If you’ve been wanting to jump on this trend, book a consultation with our specialists today! We’re determined to make 2025 the year of perfect hair. Find a time to come into the salon and see what the right cut and perfect extensions can do for you.
For more hair inspiration, follow us on Instagram (@oliviachristensensalon), and make sure to follow Christina (@hairgoddessofNY).