Find Your Fringe Match: 47 Different Types of Bangs to Try Out
Bangs hairstyles are having a major revival when you look at your social and celebrity feeds. With so many types of bangs out there, you may wonder where to start, and which one would be the best for you to try!
But what are bangs? They are also called fringes and are simply strands or locks of hair that have been cut in a way to make them fall in front of the hairline. They’ve been around forever but really became popular around the 1930s when movie actress Louise Brooks got a sleek short bob with bangs to match. Nowadays, fringes are coveted by stars like Jennifer Lopez, Halle Berry and Selena Gomez, to name just a few.
If you’re questioning if you should get them or are wondering what different types of bangs there are, you’ve come to the right place. We’re jumping in to save the day with our edit of all the best fringe hair ideas to try, plus which face types they suit best and how to style them. Read on to get inspired.
What Different Types of Bangs Are There?
Blunt, choppy, micro or French-girl-inspired, there are many different kinds of fringes to suit everyone. Discover all of the types of bangs there are to choose from.
Curtain Bangs
Two words: Brigitte Bardot! In the ’60s, the French actress/singer/model took the world by storm and gave everyone major bang envy. How? By showing us how gorgeous curtain bangs are.
This French girl-approved fringe style is flattering on all face shapes (and suitable for all ages), plus you don’t need to have thick locks to pull off this look, as a wispy finish is key.
Editor’s tip: Wispy types of bangs, like this one, require some added texture to give them that beautifully nonchalant vibe. So, we suggest you give the TRESemmé Volume and Lift Mousse a go!
Not only is this fringe helper great for giving your hair a lived-in effect, but it can also help to freshen up your fringe and soak up any oil between washes.
Cropped Bangs
We’re all about experimenting with daring and dramatic looks at All Things Hair HQ! The best way to start? By getting micro bangs (AKA baby bangs), which celebrities like Emma Watson and Bella Hadid have both been flaunting.
Since micro bangs can be rocked wispy, choppy or blunt, they can be tailored to suit all face shapes. However, it is particularly flattering on those with heart-shaped faces, as it has a balancing effect that draws attention down and towards the eyes.
Birkin Bangs
Unlike Bardot bangs, these Jane Birkin-inspired bangs are left straight and layered, giving them an authentic ’70s cool-girl feel. And seeing how this Insta-babe slays them, they’re sure to get you into the groove.
While you may not be able to get your hands on a Birkin Bag, those with square or long face shapes can count on this eye-grazing style to add softness and create width, rather than elongating your look further.
Wispy Full Fringe
Not quite as daring or high-maintenance as other types of bangs, wispy bangs are delicate and piecey, see-through and practically made for fringe newbies. Keep any untamed strand at bay with a strong hold hairspray like TRESemmé Extra Hold.
Side Swept Fringe
Though there are many different types of bangs being talked about at the moment, we always go back to the OG of bang hairstyles: side-swept bangs.
Side bangs work well on both long and short haircuts, providing the hair with more shape and definition. It’s also the one fringe hairstyle that requires the least commitment, too! This fringe hairstyle works a treat on all face shapes, though we have to say, it’s especially effective for those with round faces. Why? Because it’ll help counteract the circular look of a round face, drawing attention to all the right angles.
Swoop Bangs
Back in the day, dramatic swoop bangs were all anyone wanted. And, we’ve spotted a few members of the glitterati rocking them again (we’re looking at you, Reese Witherspoon!), meaning they’re a fringe style to watch.
Unlike side bangs, these types of bangs are much longer and perfect for those of you who want a voluminous look. Since this fringe cut is swept over to a side of your choice, it’s another type of bang that can flatter all face types and hair textures.
Editor’s tip: Swoop bangs like this call for a lot of volume, which is why we suggest you use the TRESemmé Body & Volume Shampoo.
Full Blunt Bangs
These blunt and bold bangs are not made for the faint-hearted! With that in mind, we do think it’s a mesmerising style that can work for ladies with oval face shapes, who are able and lucky enough to pull off anything. If you want to give off high-fashion vibes, this polished and pristine fringe style is all you need.
Curly Bangs
Curls of all shapes and sizes are being celebrated (as they should be!), so it makes sense for curly bangs to take centre stage, too. Need more convincing? Check out this Insta-babe’s gorgeously feminine fringe + curls combo.
Again, like micro bangs, these types of bangs can be tailored to match any face shape, but it also depends on what sort of finish you’re aiming for. If you’re still struggling to figure it out, finding a stylist who understands how to cut and style curly hair will help you out.
Choppy Bangs
Choppy bangs great way to instantly revamp your look and transform your mane. This type of bangs can work on all face types and hair textures!
Pixie Cut Bangs
With all your favourite celebs going shorter, it’s no surprise pixie cuts are becoming the trend du jour. Now, if you really want yours to stand out, you’ll need to team it with French girl-approved bangs like these ones pictured above.
Wavy Bangs
When it comes to bangs, the best ones help you embrace your hair’s texture. Enter wavy bangs! They are perfect for those with Type 2 wavy hair, or those who don’t mind achieving them with the help of styling tools.
Long Bangs
You can’t ever go wrong with long, face-framing bangs. Whether it’s long side-swept bangs or thick long ones, these types of bangs are an easy way to refresh your look.
Long bangs will work perfectly for those who want to make a small change with maximum impact. Also, if you’ve got an angular face shape that needs softening, these bangs will do the trick.
Classic Fringe
This classic style is always on-trend, plus it’s flattering on all face types.
Wispy Fringe
If you’ve got fine hair, wispy bangs are destined for you and it is also perfect for fringe newbies.
Piecey Bangs
Want to give your thick hair a refresh? Try getting this choppy fringe haircut done! it’ll help you make the most out of your mane texture and garner you some serious compliments.
Short Hair With Side Fringe
Side bangs feature a side part (hence their name!) and are the most universally flattering fringe haircut you can covet. They suit all face types, hair lengths and textures, too.
Mullet Bangs
Thanks to Miley Cyrus, mullets are slowly making a comeback. If you’re feeling brave, you can get one yourself and rock this textured, edgy bangs cut.
Dyed Bangs
Adding some colour to your bangs will take your look to the next level. This E-girl-inspired hairstyle is great for aspiring TikTokers.
Full Fringe
It’s official, fringes are back and this time, they’re not going anywhere. Classic full fringes can totally transform any cut and this street styler’s mahogany tips give the look a fresh update.
Fringe on Natural Hair
If you thought that hairstyles with bangs were strictly reserved for those with straight hair, think again. Adding a fringe is a flattering way of adding more shape to your coils and taking away some of the weight.
Peach Fringe
Fringes look good on any hair colour but when there are hues as pretty as this, how could we resist?
Eyelash Skimming Fringe
If the fear of going too short is what’s putting you off, you can opt for longer, eyelash-skimming fringe styles that you’ll be able to pin back if you have a change of heart.
Rounded Fringe
Using a hairdryer and a round brush to style your bangs will make sure there’s no chance of your fringe ever looking flat.
’90s Tendrils
Style ’90s face-framing strands with a flicked-out high pony for a Bella Hadid and Ariana Grande-inspired night-out look.
Shaggy Fringe
With its gorgeously messy texture and casual full fringe, it’s no wonder the shag cut is having a resurgence.
French Bob With a Fringe
Team a chic, cheek-length bob with a piecey fringe to emulate this classic Parisian style.
Bombshell Bangs
Tumbling waves and a boho fringe give Taylor Hill’s style a distinctively ’70s vibe.
Tinkerbell Bangs
Selena Gomez’ long parted fringe and cute top knot combo works perfectly with her face shape. Plus, it’s a style that can easily take you from day to night.
Long Fringe
Balance out the look of a longer forehead with a long fringe and layers.
Audrey Hepburn Bangs
Soften the look of an edgier short fringe by wearing it parted gently to one side.
Tapered Fringe
Dakota Johnson’s tapered fringe is longer at the sides and shorter in the middle, perfectly framing her heart-shaped face.
Fringe for Fine Hair
Love the idea of a dramatic full fringe, but don’t want the feeling of having most of your face covered all the time? Adding a small twist, like a centre parting, can tone down the harshness of some fringes while bringing a touch of sweetness and femininity to your style.
Short Hair and Long Fringe
Long and piecey is the fringe style that works best for square face types, instantly refreshing your whole look by adding a more delicate finish – just like it has for Nicole Richie!
Medium-Length Hair With Fringe
Start by keeping your fringe hair smooth and sleek, and avoid the dreaded fringe frizz, by using a specially designed wash and care duo to keep frizzy locks at bay.
Black Hair With Fringe
For a low-maintenance way to work hairstyles with bangs, we suggest opting for a length that is just below the brow and asking your stylist to feather in the centre section so that it feels light above your eyes.
Blonde Hair With Fringe
Short hairstyles can look just as good with a fringe, and this pixie cut – complete with a full blunt fringe – just proves it!
Short Hair With Fringe
The trick to nailing a fringe when you have a round face is to opt for a daring, graphic look. Note that this fringe haircut works especially well for thick hair, as it will appear less wispy and more structured.
Short Hair and Graphic Fringe
If you share the same face shape as Jennifer Hudson, take a leaf out of her book and work graphic bangs that serve as a talking point – for all the right reasons, of course.
Shoulder-Length Hair With Side Fringe
To get a lovely, soft finish to your hair, bangs can be swept to the side for a sultry, yet pretty way to rock the look! This is an elegant and flirty way to experiment with fringes and, if kept long enough, can even clip it back when you want to.
Long Layered Hair With Fringe
This fringe hair look is often much easier to maintain than a full, blunt fringe, as it doesn’t need to be super smooth or sleek to look great!
Full Fringe With Long Hair
If you’re blessed with an oval face, you can feel safe knowing that every single fringe type will not only serve to freshen your style but will also flatter your face! Why not try opting for a fringe like Lea Michele? Because it hangs just below the brow, you can wear it straight with a middle parting, or swept to the side whenever the mood takes you!
Romantic Side Fringe
Looking to grow out your fringe or not sure if you’re ready for bangs? A feathery, swooping, side fringe is a natural way to transition or to experiment idea of a fringe.
Short Fringe With Long Hair
This short fringe with long hair looks perfectly laid-back. In our opinion, the beachy waves with a just-above-the-brow, full baby bangs just ooze effortless, cool-girl vibes.
Hair Up With Fringe
Messy textures are great for giving off cool girl vibes. It works so well with a cute micro fringe and face-framing tendrils like Imogen Poots proves.
Natural Hair With Bangs
Don’t be fooled into thinking that natural and curly-haired girls can’t rock bangs.
Fake Bangs
Loving these fringe ideas? Still not sure if you’re willing to part with your hair? Bangs needn’t be scary because you can simply fake it ’til you make it with this easy, faux fringe.
Just create a high ponytail and flip your hair forward to create the illusion of a fringe. Then tie a bandana or scarf to finish off the look.
Short Layered Hair With Fringe
This short layered look is great for those looking for more volume.
What Type of Fringe is Best for Your Face Shape?
Not sure which types of bangs will suit you best? The best way to decide is to find one which flatters your face shape perfectly. If you’re not sure what your face shape is, check out our handy graphic below and see which one most closely resembles yours.
Round Faces
If your face is round, you can create definition and add the illusion of angles with side-swept fringes, choppy fringes and rounded blunt bangs.
Square Faces
Try a long fringe, tousled sides fringes and piecey bangs. These types of fringes will do a great job of softening up your angular features.
Oval Face Shapes
Lucky enough to have an oval face? You can try any of the fringes mentioned, as you have the most balanced face shape.
Heart Face Shapes
If you have a heart-shaped face, you’ll need to pick fringe types that can help balance out your features. You can opt for a choppy fringe, or wispy ones or keep this simple with some side bangs.
Long Faces
Want to make your long face appear shorter? Stick to long, heavy fringes. Swoop bangs or Birkin-style fringes are our favourites for this face shape.
Diamond Face Shapes
Trying to create the illusion of an oval shape with your diamond face? Opt for long, side-swept bangs to highlight your cheekbones. Or, get a Bardot-esque fringe that is fuller on the side and softer in the middle.
‘Can I Pull off Bangs?’ and Other Frequently Asked Questions
To fringe or not to fringe… that is the question! Over time, we’ve all faced many a fringe-hair dilemma; wondering what fringe hairstyle to try and whether or not it will suit us.
Can I Pull Off Bangs?
Of course! The great thing about fringes and bangs is that there are just so many different styles available that almost anyone can pull off bangs.
What Kind of Bangs Should I Get?
Blunt fringes look great with heart-shaped faces, while oval faces can pretty much wear any style of fringe cut (lucky!).
Micro fringes work well with glasses but if you have a fuller face shape you might want to consider a soft wispy fringe or side fringe hairstyles.
How Do You Manage Fringe Hair?
Managing a fringe doesn’t have to be difficult. As they’re constantly touching our faces, fringes tend to get greasy more quickly, so washing just your fringe will help with this.
Use dry shampoo to refresh your hair in between washes and keep grease at bay. And finally, blow dry your fringe to give it body and fullness and try using rollers to fight a flat fringe!
How Do You Know If a Fringe Would Suit You?
Try a fake fringe before you take the plunge and cut your hair! It’s a great way to figure out if you’re ready to cut your hair without actually cutting it.
