Bangs are one of the most intimidating haircuts to exist. Depending on how you trim them, they can totally transform your ‘do — for better or worse. If you’ve been pondering the idea of a new fringe or you simply have the sudden urge for a snip, make sure to school yourself on the best bangs for every hair type first. While we’re all about the “do what you want” policy with your locks (and everything else in your life), consider the celebrity hairstylist tips below for the most flattering fringe for you.
Straight Hair
According to LA-based celebrity hairstylist Kiyah Wright, a razor-sharp bang is the best fit for naturally straight hair types. “Tapered, structured, and smooth, the ideal bang for straight strands is a blunt, straight-across, full fringe that falls at eyelash-level,” she says. (Photo via Ray Tamarra / Getty)
If you want to add a bit more texture to your style, Wright, who works with Jennifer Hudson and Nicole Ari Parker, recommends cutting a soft layer around the edges of your bangs to enhance your cheekbones and open your face. {See Bella Hadid’s bangs to see it in action.) To keep your fringe looking tamed and on-point — something that’s key for blunt edges — trim your new style every two weeks.
Wavy Hair
For waves, NYC-based celebrity hairstylist Paul Labrecque recommends a side-swept bang. “Make sure the bangs incorporate your natural texture when they’re off to the side — don’t straighten them,” he says, noting that curtain styles (like Georgia May Jagger’s above) also work well for the hair type. (Photo via Mike Marsland/BFC/ Getty)
To achieve the exact look, know what to ask for. Wright suggests requesting “a side-swept, layered, or curtain bang that hits just above the brows with the heaviest pieces at the sides.” If you want to stretch the time between trim sessions, Wright recommends going a little shorter and asking for a more feather-like finish during the initial cut.
Curly Hair
If you have curly hair like Zooey Deschanel, Wright suggests opting for a style that plays with your natural texture and volume. “Brow-grazing, shaggy fringe is your best bet if you have curly strands, because it adds instant dimension and movement to your look,” she says. To maintain the style, let your tresses air dry or use a diffuser when blowdrying. (Photo via Frederick M. Brown/ Getty)
If you want to test the waters before taking the deep dive into bangs, Labrecque has a quick tip for your bouncy texture. “Wispy curls that are softly cut around the face and aren’t too thick really complement ladies with this natural texture,” he points out. “This style will actually create a lovely illusion of having bangs.”
Coiled Hair
While those with kinky, curly hair may shy away from bangs, celeb stylists say not to. According to Wright, the key is to make sure the fringe of your cut is in sync with your hair’s natural volume, length, and curl pattern, like Yara Shahidi . (Photo via Dan MacMedan/ Getty)
“Bangs need to blend with the rest of your hair and should be cut at least two inches longer than your desired length,” she suggests. “Kinky/coiled strands shrink and can look shorter than they actually are. So the trick is to air on the longer side for bangs.”
RELATED: 13 Hairstyles That’ll Make You Want Bangs ASAP
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