ARE YOU READY FOR BANGS?
Written by Audrey Sundqvist, Hairstylist at Urban Betty
So you’re thinking about getting bangs! Put the scissors down. Let’s chat.
First things first, if you’ve already made the decision to change your look by adding a fringe (aka Bangs) then there’s probably no stopping you—which is totally fine! Just make sure that you’re getting them cut by a professional. Though it seems like a simple task you can do on your own, just take a second to reflect on your second grade picture when your mom tried to cut your bangs and ask yourself if it’s worth the risk. Also, your stylist will likely have some suggestions for you to help decide what kind of fringe will work best with your hair type, face shape, and lifestyle!
Say what? Those things matter? Yes—absolutely. Here are a few things I assess as a stylist while helping my clients decide on which fringe to wear (if they’re a good candidate for a bang in the first place).
HAIR TYPE & GROWTH PATTERN
Ever wonder why you can’t seem to get your bangs to lay down correctly without that one whacky piece sticking up? Or what about the bang that always seems to look stringy? You may not be a candidate for a thicker style fringe if you have a cowlick or widows peak along your hairline or if your hair isn’t dense enough. Yes, you could always add more hair to the fringe, but depending on how thin your hair is, a bang may take away from the density of hair everywhere else in your cut and make your hair look even thinner everywhere else. If you have a cowlick on your front hairline, a bang might be very difficult to tame depending on how heavy your hair is. Your stylist can help you decide if maybe a longer side swept bang or face framing layers are a better option for you.
If your hair has natural wave or curl you’ll also want to consider whether or not you’re willing to take the time to tame your fringe every day. You know how your hair tends to get puffy in the summertime? So will that bang! Don’t get me wrong, there’s nothing more stylish than a beautifully shaped shag cut with a fringe on textured hair—but be ready to monitor the situation!
FACE SHAPE & TRENDS
There’s really no solid rules when it comes to what face shapes should avoid bangs, but be aware that a fringe can totally draw attention to different features of your face. If you have a shorter face shape but you’ve made up your mind that you still want to try a fringe then you may want to consider a center parted “drape” bang or a slightly side parted sweeping bang as to keep an elongated, open space on your forehead. A heavy straight bang or a micro bang will shorten the appearance of your face even more. On the flip side, if you have a long face you’re generally in the clear for most types of fringe as long as your hair type and growth patterns allow for it! Again, your stylist will be able to help you figure it out.
To get a head start, you can check out our other blogs on the right bangs for your face shape.
WILLINGNESS TO COMMIT
I said it, the C word. Commitment. Y’all, a bang takes a little extra work! It will not style itself; although some people can get away with not having to style their bangs, chances are you will have to invest a little more time and focus on getting them to behave. There’s a learning curve to wearing a fringe. Whenever a client sits in my chair and suggests that they want to try bangs, if they show any signs of commitment issues with the idea of styling them each day then I won’t cut them. You’re welcome!
WEATHER
A solid piece of advice I usually tell my clients is to try to avoid experimenting with bangs in the summer months, especially if they live in a humid climate. Bangs are generally more compliant and easier to work with when the air is a little dryer and the skin underneath isn’t sweating or moist. Trying to heat style hair in the summertime can be a waste of time and the integrity of your hair could suffer!
SO, NOW WHAT?
Now you’re probably second guessing your decision to get a bang. I urge you to call your stylist and make an appointment to just talk about it! A bang could be an amazing option for you! But, now that you know everything there is to know—are you ready for bangs?
