Types of bangs

Different Types Of Bangs For Getting A Trendy Hair Transformation

Are you doing enough for your baby bangs? You probably didn’t know this but they require dedicated washes in between your weekly hair wash sessions. The oil on your face coupled with humidity in the air works as a quick recipe for greasy bangs. If you would rather pick the water-free route, get yourself a dry shampoo which works great as well for absorbing oil and removing grease.

36 Types of Bangs to Consider If You’re Craving a Change in Style

Author image: Jenny Jin Headshot Vertical 2023: a headshot photo of a woman

36 types of bangs? We know, it’s overwhelming. Especially if you’re not even sure you’re ready to commit to bangs in the first place. Not to fret, we’ll take you through the many variations, one by one, so you can find the fringe that best suits your style.

But first, how do I know what type of bangs to get?

We’re of the mind that bangs can look good on anyone. But if you’re starting from square one and not sure what to ask for, it can be helpful to consider your face shape as an initial guide. For example:

  • Oval shaped faces can generally pull off any type or length of bangs.
  • Oblong or rectangular shapes tend to do well with blunt, full bangs.
  • Round face shapes can be slimmed with face-framing curtain bangs or side bangs.
  • Square and heart-shaped faces are softened by wispier fringe.

We’ll show you some examples ahead, so you can bring them into your next appointment.

1. Curtain Bangs

Let’s start with the dominating bang of the last few years: curtain bangs. Split open at the center of your forehead (like a curtain; hence the name), this flattering fringe frames either side of your face with slightly longer pieces at the ends.

2. Draped Bangs

Think of draped bangs as a longer version of curtain bangs. Also parted in the center, this slightly longer variation can just as easily be swept to one side.

3. Blunt Bangs

Fact: A full set of fringe looks downright youthful. Just barely skimming your brows and snipped in at the ends so they taper to your forehead, this style of bang works best on thick hair.

4. Schoolgirl Bangs

Somewhere between a curtain and a blunt bang lies this full, curved fringe that’s become Jameela Jamil’s signature look. Have your stylist trim your bangs just above your eyebrows, and be prepared to go back for a quick trim every few weeks.

5. Feathered Bangs

Feathered bangs are a great option for ladies with longer, oval-shaped faces. Just about the same length as the aforementioned schoolgirl bangs, these are intentionally wispier and well suited for finer strands.

6. Textured Bangs

It doesn’t get easier (or breezier) than matching your bangs to your natural waves. There’s no need to blow dry; just work some texturizing spray at the roots and let them do their thing.

7. Side-swept Bangs

A side-swept style is instantly flattering to all face shapes, which might be why it’s often the first foray into bangs for many of us. The key to rocking them like Mindy is to wear them with a deep side part and have them angled so the longest pieces hit the tops of your cheekbones (which slims the roundest part of your face).

8. Center Parted Bangs

This is a great option for anyone who isn’t ready to commit to styling their hair regularly (because, make no mistake, most bangs will require regular upkeep). Intentionally long and pushed off to either side, you’ll still get a subtle framing like you do with curtain bangs, but less in your face.

9. Birkin Bangs

Named after icon Jane Birkin, these lash-grazing bangs are stunning. However, you will need to go in for regular trims to keep them at just the right length. That said, we’d recommend this style when you’re in those initial stages of growing out your bangs.

10. Blended Bangs

Both “Morning Show” stars are rocking blended bangs here (though Jen’s are bordering on long layers). Longer, layered bangs are the lowest commitment of the bunch and meld seamlessly into the rest of your hair—which is the beauty of them. There’s virtually no grow-out period.

11. Curly Bangs

Curls and bangs pair extremely well together if cut right. On that note, make sure your stylist cuts them when your hair is completely dry so you both can see exactly where and how they fall on your face.

12. Stretched Curl Bangs

And if you’re feeling apprehensive about cutting bangs into your curls, just keep them on the longer side. In general, longer fringe is more forgiving since curls tend to pop up as they dry.

13. Braided Bangs

Oh Lupita, how you make us swoon. The actress upped the ante on what you can do with your bangs when she showed us this braided look.

14. Beaded Bangs

Like Lupita, Yara is another trendsetter we often look to for inspiration. Here, she has her braids looped into faux bangs across her forehead and down the sides of her face, securing them in place with chunky beads.

15. Wavy Bangs

We feel confident in saying that Sandra Oh has some of the best bangs in Hollywood. Thick and tousled and blended effortlessly into the rest of her voluminous waves, we’re tempted to get a perm, just to copy the look ourselves.

Different Types Of Bangs For Getting A Trendy Hair Transformation

Types Of Bangs For All

Bangs have been resorted to as an instant transformative fix post-breakup but trust us when we say you don’t need a break-up to push you to look cool. Sure, you may have flirted with bangs when you were a lot younger but now is the time to take that relationship forward and notice the serious impact it can have on your overall look (and we mean that in a good way). However, getting bangs may require you to be experimental and bold enough to take the plunge but if not now, then when? It’s normal to ponder on what could go wrong but if done right, your first experiment could be the best one you’ve done in years. On that note, we’ve done our homework to compile you a list on different types of bangs so you can take your pick and get started right away.

Types Of Bangs

Types Of Bangs – Sleek Front Bangs

1. Sleek Front Bangs

If you have straight and voluminous hair, nothing and no one can stop you from taking the plunge with this style. These brow-skimming bangs cover your forehead entirely and add an edgy look. To ensure the strands are always sleek, you can invest in a straightening brush as a quick morning fix for your bedhead hair. P.S. Go for this if your hair is thick enough to still have enough main body post the chop. Style With: Bronson Professional Simply Straight Artifact Ceramic Hair Straightening Brush

2. Side Bangs

If straight-across fringes are not your jam, you can go for something that’s smooth and not so edgy – side bangs. The hair is cut usually to cheek length and is meant to flow to one side of your face. It’s often recommended as a way to soften the face. The best part? When side bangs grow out, you can simply tuck them behind your ear and move on with your life. Now, who wouldn’t want to commit to that? Style With: Trichup Nutri Shine Hair Serum

Types Of Bangs – Side Bangs

Types Of Bangs – Curled Bangs

3. Curled Bangs

The beauty about curls is that they have a mind of their own. You never know how your curls are gonna coil and fall when you wake up in the morning. This is what makes curled bangs so exciting. It works with your natural hair texture to frame your face in an unpredictable fashion and keep you looking gorgeous. As for styling, make sure to keep a curl defining cream in your arsenal. Lazy day calling out to you? You can finger twist your locks and no one will know. Style With: Schwarzkopf Osis+ Curl Honey Curl Cream

4. Korean Bangs

If full bangs are too opaque for your liking, try Korean bangs. Think of it as a breather from the traditional thick bangs that your forehead desperately tries playing peek-a-boo with but fails. Korean bangs are wispy and see-through air bangs that end somewhere between your lashes and brows. It’s your best bet at taking years off your appearance. Style With: L’oreal Professionnel Serie Expert Liss Unlimited Primrose Oil

Types Of Bangs – Korean Bangs

Types Of Bangs – Fake Bangs

5. Fake Bangs

If you’re someone who would rather first dip her toes before going for a full dive, go for fake bangs. Faux bangs are hair extensions cut into fringes of desired length and secured in your hair with the help of pins. We think it’s the perfect way to know how different bangs from blunt to choppy would look on your face and then go for the final cut. Talk about a test drive. Style With: Vega Handcrafted Comb

6. Long Bangs

Not ready to lose your hair length? Well, you don’t have to stay in the denial phase, you can still get ‘em bangs without overworking the scissors. Enter: long bangs. In this style, you will have face-framing pieces that go all the way to your chin and soften your overall appearance. This is especially perfect if you are not looking for a severe or edgy look. Style With: Mamaearth Onion Hair Serum

Types Of Bangs – Long Bangs

Types Of Bangs – Light Bangs

7. Light Bangs

Sure, they are barely there but these low-maintenance bangs give an end result that spells effortless and undone. These fringes that sweep across your face elegantly are your best bet at not entering the full bang territory. It’s especially great if you know you are not going to wear bangs every day – you can lay them across your forehead or simply push them to the side or the back. Style With: Raaga Professional Probotanix Frizz Control Serum

8. Side swept bangs

Unsure about that chop? Let side swept bangs sweep you off your feet without the guilt of sacrificing your lovely tresses. In this style, your bangs are brushed to flow on one side thereby adding a feminine touch. They lend a soft look and won’t demand much on the maintenance front. If you’re trying to play it safe, these bangs may be perfect for you. Style With: Philips Hair Dryer (BHD007/20)

Types Of Bangs – Side Swept Bangs

Types Of Bangs – Blunt Bangs

9. Blunt Bangs

Blunt bangs are the no-nonsense of the lot. Eyebrow-skimming, they completely cover your forehead and make for an uber-cool look. Sure, this style demands regular trimming and maintenance but the end result is worth swooning over so why not? Psst! If you are looking for a noticeable transformation, we are gonna be blunt about it when we say go for this one. Style With: Philips Kera Shine Straightener (BHS386/00)

10. Layered Bangs

If you have the guts to make a truly brave statement, go for layered bangs. It could totally alter your face structure while adding movement and softness to your hair. It’s ideal for people with less angulated facial structure as wearing this style will add definition and switch up your look with minimal effort. Style With: Philips Hair Dryer (HP8100/60)

Types Of Bangs – Layered Bangs

Types Of Bangs – Choppy Bangs

11. Choppy Bangs

For all the non-committal ladies out there, here’s some good news. Choppy bangs is the way to go if you are not up for a high-maintenance look. The varying lengths in choppy bangs give it a less obvious pattern which is why we believe this look is anything but meh. Oh and they grow out fast so by the time you think of making a switch, your bangs will have overgrown to be ready for another snip. Style With: Bronson Professional Hair Dryer For Home Professional Use (2800)

12. Wispy Bangs

If you are looking for a style that looks more natural and allows your forehead to peek through, you are in for a luck. Wispy bangs are soft and lightly feathered which makes it ideal for women with thin hair. These eyebrow-grazing fringes can be maintained with a regular blow dry so the strands stay in place. Style With: BBLUNT Intense Moisture Hair Serum

Types Of Bangs – Wispy Bangs

Types Of Bangs – Baby Bangs

13. Baby Bangs

If you want to venture a li’l farther out of your comfort zone, opt for micro or baby bangs. The bold ‘do, has the vote of confidence from industry biggies like Emma Watson and Bella Hadid —reaches 2 to 3 centimetres from your forehead. However, one needs to be extremely careful and keep a dry shampoo handy to prevent sweat from coiling this fringe. Style With: Anomaly Refreshing Dry Shampoo with Rice Starch and Tea Tree Oil

14. Feathered Bangs

If you like your mane to have some character and movement, might we suggest opting for feathered bangs? The particular hairdo gives you ample room for experimentation. Feathered bangs don’t sit matted on the forehead and are associated with texture towards the end. Style With: Philips Hair Dryer (HP8100/46)

Types Of Bangs – Feathered Bangs

Types Of Bangs – Textured Bangs

15. Textured Bangs

Textured bangs scream drama and how. A celeb favourite in recent times — we have seen the Wednesday breakout star sporting textured bangs with her wolf cut bob. These bangs appear more voluminous as opposed to their counterparts — due to their intricate layering to them. As bold and stylish textured bangs may appear, styling them every morning can be a task. We recommend styling them with a blowdryer sideways. Seal the look with a generous spritz of a texturising spray! Style With: Toni and Guy Sea Salt Texturising Spray |beach Locks and Natural Waves

16. Pixie Bangs

If you want to get a hairdo which requires minimal styling— pixie bangs should be your calling. These bangs sit tight on the forehead, a couple of inches north of the brows and compliment most face types. All you need to do is run your fingers through your mane and you’re good to go. Give your tresses a much needed breather from all the heat styling and get pixie bangs. Style With: Bare Anatomy EXPERT Ultra Smoothing Serum For Smooth and Shiny Hair With Omega 3,6&9 and Phytosqualan

Types Of Bangs – Pixie Bangs

Types Of Bangs – Blended Bangs

17. Blended Bangs

If you are weary of committing to bangs that ride a couple of inches above the browline — blended bangs is the perfect match for you. Cut in beautiful layers, these bangs brush against your brows and seamlessly camouflage with the rest of the mane. Unlike some of the ‘dos dissected earlier, you don’t have to wait for your bangs to grow out in any capacity. Use a light hairspray to prevent your fringes from splitting. Style With: Moroccanoil Protect And Prevent Spray

18. French Bangs

The most versatile of all hairdos, French bangs add a unique softness to your overall appearance. Recently spotted on celebrities like Ashley Tisdale and Sophie Turner— these fringes which softly sweep the brows in the centre, grow longer towards the temple and meld into the rest of the hair. The french fringe is equally sophisticated and chic, and unlike other ‘dos mentioned earlier— a little split in the middle is more than welcome! Whether you wear your hair in a bun or let it ride loose, the sight of the French fringe is bound to get many compliments pouring in. Style With: Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Crush Cheirosa 62 Bum Bum Hair and Body Mist

Types Of Bangs – French Bangs

Types Of Bangs – Tapered Bangs

19. Tapered Bangs

The chic and super, on-trend — tapered bangs are typically long and progressively get shorter, sideways. You can sweep them aside and wear the entirety of your volume in a top knot or a ponytail for an effortless look served hot with a side of nonchalance. Perfect for folks with a heart shape face and fuller cheeks — this style of fringe makes your bone structure look balanced. Keep a hair straightener handy to prevent the tapered bangs from curling due to the weather. Style With: Sanfe Selfly Stunner Hair Straightening Brush

Tips To Maintain Hairstyles With Bangs

Grab A Dry Shampoo

Are you doing enough for your baby bangs? You probably didn’t know this but they require dedicated washes in between your weekly hair wash sessions. The oil on your face coupled with humidity in the air works as a quick recipe for greasy bangs. If you would rather pick the water-free route, get yourself a dry shampoo which works great as well for absorbing oil and removing grease.

Hairdryer To The Rescue

We all know how bangs are notorious for curling up awfully after shower or sticking out at all possible angles by the end of the day. Well, you won’t have to worry about it if you blow dry your fringes as soon as you hop out of the shower. Oh and we are serious about the ‘soon’.

Use A Hair Brush

Do you usually tend to smooth out hair with your fingers? Well, you might want to exercise restraint when it comes to your bangs or you’re just gonna make it oilier. Instead make a little brush your new BFF and fish it out for your midday touch ups.

Don’t Overdo Styling Products

Scale back on styling products if you don’t wish to wind up looking like a grease ball. We recommend applying the product on the rest of your hair and then teasing your bangs with the residual product on your hands. This will ensure you don’t go overboard with the styling for your fringes.

Use A Volumizing Spray

To prevent midday flatness of your front bangs, use a volumizing spray before you head out. A few spritzes will do the trick and help build volume that lasts through the day.

Get Regular Trims

You might not be so stringent when it comes to regularly trimming your hair but you can’t afford to be so laidback once you’ve committed to bangs. It’s advisable to get your bangs trimmed every three-four weeks so they look healthy. If you are not up for schlepping to the salon for regular trims, you can opt for low-maintenance bang styles, such as curtain bangs, wispy bangs, choppy bangs and side swept bangs.

Protect Your Bangs

The next time you dab that creamy moisturizer on your face, be a dear and pull back your bangs. Clip them for a while to avoid your skin products from transferring onto them (RE: grease alert). Pro tip: Lightly blot your forehead with a blotting paper before your let your bangs come in contact with your forehead.

Don’t Want The Real Deal? No Problem

Lastly, if you are still not ready to commit to bangs, you can get yourself fake bangs. Clip in, secure and remove as you please. What maintenance?

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