If you’ve just chopped curtain bangs or you’re considering taking the plunge, this guide will take you through how to style curtain bangs, how to look after them, and how to make them suit your individual hair type.
Curtain bangs have finally taken over the beauty world and for a very good reason. Equal parts stylish, flattering, and laid-back cool, this retro-style fringe has had a strong resurgence, and it doesn’t look like going anywhere anytime soon.
But here’s the catch as simple as they appear on Pinterest and Instagram, styling curtain bangs does require a bit of finesse. The silver lining? Once you master it, you’ll be styling them like a pro in less than five minutes.
What on Earth Are Curtain Bangs?
Let’s get this straight first.
Curtain bangs are a fringe that’s cut down the middle (or off center by a small margin) and swept to either side as a curtain opening, which is how they get their name. They set off the face in a gentle, face-framing shape that can bring a touch of elegance, movement, or even drama to your appearance.
Unlike blunt bangs, they’re generally longer, typically sweeping the cheeks or jawline, which makes them extremely versatile. You can style them so that they melt into your hair or become the focal point.
Curtain Bangs: Why They’re So Well-Liked
It’s not all about the look. Curtain bangs have so much more going on:
- Low-maintenance: They don’t need to be trimmed frequently because they simply grow out.
- Universally flattering: Complimentary for almost any face shape.
- Versatile: They’re easy to style with a ponytail, bun, braids, or loose locks.
- Style versatility: Need romantic waves one day and a sleek office hairstyle the next? Curtain bangs to the rescue.
Should You Get Curtain Bangs?
Before we get into styling, here’s a fast checklist to determine if curtain bangs are right for you:
- ✅ You want to frame your face without fully committing to bangs
- ✅ You adore a soft, effortless look
- ✅ You’re okay with heat-styling (even minimal)
- ✅ You have time to style your hair a few times a week
If you nodded at most of those, curtain bangs might just be your new signature look.
Tools You’ll Need to Style Curtain Bangs
You don’t need a salon-worthy kit just a few basics:
Blow dryer with a concentrator nozzle
Medium or small round brush
curling iron or straightener (optional)
Using a volumising spray or dry shampoo
Spray heat protectant
Clips or Bobby pins (for restyling or training)
How to Style Curtain Bangs (The Lazy Girl Version): A Comprehensive Guide
Here’s the simplest daily routine that still makes your bangs look chic:
1. Begin with Damp or Clean-Fresh Bangs
If your bangs are oily or flat, give them a fast rinse or water spritz. Dry shampoo is also magic!
2. Spray a Heat Protectant
Even if your hair is only being blow-dried for a brief period of time, always protect it.
3. Round Brush + Blow Dryer Technique
Lift the bangs up and out from your face by using a round brush. Point the blow dryer down, in the direction of the brush. Twist the brush under to make that soft curl.
4. Set the Shape
While your bangs are still warm, hold them in place for several seconds. This will allow them to set into place.
5. Finishing Touches
To add volume, lightly mist with dry shampoo; to maintain the form, use a hold hairspray.
How to Style Curtain Bangs for Varying Hair Types
Straight Hair
Straight hair curtain bangs can be very sleek.
Gently curve the ends inwards using a flat iron.
A dab of styling cream adds shine and smooths fly aways.
Wavy Hair
Your natural texture adds bounce!
Let them air dry with a bit of curl-enhancing cream or mousse.
Use your fingers to separate the wave into a loose, lived-in shape.
Curly Hair
Curtain bangs on curly hair look whimsical and bold.
Ask your stylist to cut them dry to see the true shape.
Style with curl cream and diffuse no need for heat tools!
Thick Hair
Thin out puffiness with thinning shears, if necessary.
Blow-dry and round brush style to get rid of extra bulk.
Light Hair
Dry shampoo or a volumising mousse may be applied to treat the roots.
Small brush blow-dry for added lift.
Quick Styling Tips for Any Occasion
Curtain bangs are more than a one-trick pony. Here are the ways to mix things up:
Everyday Day Look
Dry shampoo + center part = effortless French-girl look.
Pair with messy bun or low pony.
Work or College
Clean parting, sleek blowout.
Pin one side behind the ear for a clean, put-together look.
Evening/Dressy
The hair is softly curled throughout, with the curtain fringe tucked behind the ears or gently waved.
The hair is softly curled throughout, with the curtain fringe tucked behind the ears or gently waved.
A Day of Bad Hair
Reattach them with a headband or quiff.
Texture spray is a stylish way to embrace the sloppy look.
Upkeep Advice to Maintain Their Fresh Look
- To keep your figure in maintance., trim in every five to six weeks.
- Because they get greasy more quickly than the rest of your hair, clean your fringe more often!
- Blot them first when drying your hair.
- Texturize with texturizing spray for movement and so not to get flat.
- Brush them at night to avoid strange morning creases.
Growing Out Curtain Bangs? Here’s How to Do It Gracefully
Begin parting your hair slightly off center to merge the bangs.
Use a flat iron to curl the ends outward, blending with your layers.
Style them as side bangs or pin them into adorable twists and braids.
Real Talk: Embracing the Imperfection
Natural and lived-in looks are key when it comes to curtain fringe.
The goal of curtain fringe is to achieve a worn-in, carefree style. They shouldn’t be stiff or overdone. On some days, they’ll stay in place just right; on others, they might do their own thing and that’s fine.
That’s actually the beauty of curtain bangs. They’re designed to move, fall, and relax your overall appearance without requiring perfection.
Final Thoughts
Styling curtain bangs may seem a little tricky to pick up at first, but once you discover what works for your hair type and lifestyle, they’ll be second nature. Curtain fringe lend a touch of carefree style to any ensemble, whether you’re wearing them to brunch, class, the office or a night out.
Like the fashionista you are, grab your brush, turn on your blow dryer, and start flipping those fringe layers!
