Time to hit up your hairstylist.
Your Definitive Guide to Every Single Type of Bangs
I don't know about you, but I can’t make it through my IG feed these days without convincing myself I need bangs. Whether its curtain bangs, straight-across fringe, or Dua Lipa-inspired styles, there are so many types of bangs on the come-up right now that it's kinda hard to decide which ones are worth trying. And since there's definitely no one-size-fits all when it comes to bangs, I went ahead and put together the ultimate guide to the best styles and cuts of 2021. Plus, you know, a few crucial tips and tricks for styling your new bangs—'cause, spoiler alert, it's not always as easy as it looks.
Keep scrolling for 25 bang hairstyles to consider ASAP, and then book that appointment with your stylist (repeat after me: DIY bangs are never worth it—no matter how bored you are).
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It makes sense that the curtain bangs trend is so popular right now—the style is fairly low maintenance, easy to grow out, and requires v minimal upkeep (aka there's no need to hit up your hairstylist for frequent trims). Go for longer layers and part 'em right down the middle to recreate this look.
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You can't go wrong with a classic, straight-across bangs look—especially when you add in some texture like so. Have your stylist trim your bangs just above your eyebrows, and be prepared to go back for a quick trim every few weeks.
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Looking for something a bit more subtle? Go for soft, blended curtain bangs with more volume on the sides than in the middle—that way you can easily push them away when you aren't feeling the super-feathered vibe.
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Aaaand for the opposite of subtle, look no further than this IG-ready style: dyed bangs. It's definitely a bold choice, but how cool does this color-blocked pink hue look with an eye-grazing length? Psst: You can grab a temporary dye if you aren't sure you want to commit.
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PSA: Grown-out bangs don't have to look super awkward. If you're in between lengths, follow Dua Lipa's lead and lean into a sleek, shiny-AF texture. Part your hair down the middle to make your bangs look more like layers.
View this post on InstagramThis LEWK @camila_cabello 😍 Hair By @dimitrishair Makeup By @patrickta Assisted By @livmadorma Styled By @robzangardi cc: @gianmitchell
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If getting blunt, straight-across bangs feels a liiiiittle intimidating, opt for something thick and layered like Camila Cabello's. Part your bangs in the middle to channel the singer, or brush 'em to the side—the longer your layers are, the more styling options you'll have.
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Like, fine, eye-skimming bangs aren't the most practical of styles, but there's just something so effing pretty about long, fringey pieces. Prepare to play up your texture and volume with this look (texturizing spray is your best friend here).
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Leave it to Yara Shahidi to make braided bangs look so damn cool. Have your stylist cut a few long, face-framing pieces on either side of your bangs for a little dimension (and a few chunky beads won't hurt, either).
dispatch from another good hair day in LA
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Gone are the days of straightening just your bangs (TBT to my emo, flat-ironed bangs). Whatever your natural texture, feel free to embrace it all over, like this perfectly wavy option.
View this post on InstagramFresh Frenchie Fringe for this Fine Fox. 🦊 By @riawna for @orionvanessa ✂️
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Note: A shag haircut doesn't mean short. Adding lots of layers to both your bangs and the rest of your hair allows you to get in on the choppy trend without sacrificing much length.
View this post on InstagramFake bang for a real one @bellaagolden. On set for @lclaurenconrad 10 YEAR ANNIVERSARY SHOOT 🎉😱
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Not totally ready to cut your hair? Experiment with the bang type with some cute and convincing clip-in bangs. Make sure they blend seamlessly with your hair color for a natural vibe.
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Brigitte Bardot was known for having mussed-up curtain bangs (i.e. feathered and roughly parted in the middle) paired with long hair. Try this style if you want something a little more effortless and a little less perfect.
View this post on Instagramkinda 90s, kinda not 🦋@cristalserranoo // #makeup #hair //
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Unlike the blunt bangs from your elementary school days, this brow-grazing type is edgy and sleek—perfect for anyone with stick-straight hair or an affinity for flat irons.
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No matter your curl pattern, even a few shorter curls that hit below your brows can make a noticeable difference in your overall hairstyle.
View this post on InstagramWhen growing out your bangs never looked so good 😍 #FaceFramingFringe ✂️ with fresh pops of sunkissed lights 🎨 #901girl @reneebargh #70sVibes #makesmewanttocutmine #cutcolorstyle #mereecapri
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Not only do face-framing bangs look so damn good, but the cut also works as a trick for transitioning from bangs to no bangs during the inevitable grow-out stage.
View this post on InstagramCurtain #bangs are the fall hair accessory you need🙌🏽🍁 Why? Link in bio for @mim_i_am_’s *very* convincing reasons👩🏼
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A modern take on the quintessential '70s look, this longer version of curtain bangs blends nicely into the rest of your hair. It's versatile enough to be worn pushed over to the side or parted down the middle.
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No bang look is as classic and classy as these short, choppy ones, which were a favorite of Audrey Hepburn. They might require frequent trims, but they're totally worth it.
View this post on InstagramBack with a bangg💥 Stole @jei_arr caption and bangs lol, and he’s the boy on my snap y’all been asking about 👀 @fashionnova denim jacket
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If you have fine hair and want some extra oomph, try getting very light, wispy bangs to give the illusion of height and volume in the rest of your hair.
View this post on Instagram"The vibe was a clean, polished Barbie-inspired look--classic, but defined." 🗯 @florido on the inspo behind @haileybaldwin's #VMAs look 💅🏼✨ Tap the link in bio for a glimpse of Hailey's getting-ready diary and her hair how-to ⛓
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If your hair spends most of its time in an updo, try the type of bangs that fall just below your cheekbones. You'll automatically have soft, face-framing layers when you put your hair up, and long bangs when you take your hair down.
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If you're really leaning into the '90s trend, this voluminous, blown-out type of bangs is for you. To keep it elevated and modern, ditch the hairspray to give your hair a little more movement.
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This tiny-bangs type stops an inch short of your eyebrows, giving you a look that's both retro and modern, all at the same time. It's even more striking when contrasted with extra-long hair.
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Side-swept bangs are basically gateway bangs. Before going all out with a bold, blunt-cut bang (especially if it's your first time), first test the type with this long, layered version that's super easy to grow out if you hate it.
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Just like its name implies, this type of bangs is cut in the shape of an arch, with the shortest lengths skimming your eyebrows, and the longest layers curving around the edges of your jaw. The result? A beautifully flattering frame of your face.
View this post on InstagramIceberg ❄️ @phoenixmaguk 📸 @benjaminaskinas styling @i_am_gioconda hair @robertlopezcut
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This polished style can be worn blunt and straight across, but these thick bangs look especially chic when slightly parted in the middle.
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Instead of worrying about piecey bangs looking greasy, embrace the look by raking a styling cream through your bangs and ends for a wet-looking finish. It's an easy way to cut down on washing your fringe, while still looking stylish.
This story originally appeared on: Cosmopolitan - Author:Ruby Buddemeyer
