Short bangs: What you need to know + inspo looks

Nothing can transform your look quite as quickly as short bangs. Done right, short bangs hairstyles can be the ultimate image overhaul. Face-framing, eyebrow-grazing and cheekbone highlighting – the world of short hair bangs can offer many benefits.

So, let’s break it down… just how would one pull off this directional look if we were to jump aboard the short bangs train? As the hair-pros we are, we’ve compiled what we like to think of as the ultimate ‘how to rock short bangs guide’, below. You can thank us later!

Short bangs hairstyles and how to wear them

Can I pull off short bangs?

While, technically speaking, anyone can wear short hair bangs, it can be a difficult look to pull off – particularly if you have a round or a heart-shaped face.

However, the number one bonus of these looks is that both long and short haircuts with bangs are super flattering, helping to draw attention to your best features. This is especially great if you have an oval, long or square-shaped face.

Of course, short fringes aren’t for the faint-hearted, so if it’s your first foray into the style, try testing the waters with a longer, feathered fringe or some short side bangs before going for a more dramatic look.

What sort of short bangs hairstyles would suit me?

Whether you go for long or short haircuts, with bangs you can work with your style to create something that suits your personality to a T. From a ’90s-esque, straight-across-the-forehead fringe, to retro bangs, or even some cute short side bangs, there’s surely something that will work for you.

Short bangs hairstyles to take note of

From runway to red carpet, we have the Crème de la Crème of short haircuts with bangs to start your journey.

1. Short bangs with a touch of vintage glamour

Looking to channel old Hollywood glamour for an iconic beauty fix? Pair short bangs hairstyles with some grown-up waves and a bold red lip! You’ll have a stand-out look ready for whatever the world throws at you.

2. Baby bangs and short curls

Looking for ways to style short haircuts with bangs? Add a touch of retro to a bob length cut with baby bangs and curled ends.

3. Hepburn bangs updo

Laura Harrier oozes sophistication with this Audrey Hepburn style short bangs updo. We love this look for a special occasion or formal event.

Editor’s tip: Use the superfine TONI&GUY Finishing Shine Spray over blow-dried hair to give your tresses a brilliant shine and polish.

4. Throwback to ’90s grunge

The return of many ’90s trends has brought highly-coveted looks back into the spotlight. Space buns, scrunchies and crimped locks have all been resurrected – and now it’s time for the micro fringe to step up to the podium once again.

5. Wavy lob with edgy short bangs

This edgy ‘do combines an ultra-short fringe with a wavy shoulder-length style for the ultimate cool-girl look.

6. Bettie bangs

Known as the Queen of pin-ups, Bettie Page kicked off the Bettie bangs trend, wearing a short fringe for most of her career.

Editor’s tip: Finish your look with a generous spritz of VO5 Invisible Firm Hold Hairspray. This ultra-fine fast drying spray is key to holding your style.

7. Long locks and short bangs

It’s so easy to get in a style rut when you have long hair, which is why we think adding short bangs is the answer to the mane of your dreams.

8. Bob and baby bangs

The ultimate French girl combo; bob and bangs are the It hairstyle to be spotted wearing right now thanks to model Taylor LaShae and co.

9. ’70s bedhead

We absolutely love Lily James’ take on short bangs. Teaming her wavy blonde hair with above the eyebrow bangs gives her mane a ‘70s-style boho feel.

Editor’s tip: Define & separate to create tousled texture and light hold without a crunchy feel with the TONI&GUY Sea Salt Texturising Spray.

10. Choppy short bangs

Already rocking a cropped ‘do? Want to up the ante a little for the season ahead? Then turn your attention to this runway look, which is bringing out a rough ‘n’ ready edge to this short hair and bangs combo.