Thinking About Getting Bangs? Here's How To Tell If Fringe Is The Right Look For You

With the popularity of shows like "Wednesday" and "Emily in Paris," it's no question that bangs have become a popular feature of haircuts once again. Bangs sometimes get a bad reputation as a style that's only chosen by impulse in the throes of a breakup or other emotional turmoil, but the look can be flattering on most people, which makes them a great choice for people who really want to change up their style in a very noticeable way.

The great thing about bangs is that there are so many different styles that bangs can always be right for you. Hairstylist Jon Reyman tells Glamour, "If you style and own it, you can rock any type of bangs no matter what face shape you have." If you want a more sure-fire way to make sure they'll be flattering, you can start by choosing a type of bang that complements your face shape. Before getting bangs, ask yourself if you're a person who's okay with having hair in their face, and consider your lifestyle. Do you have the time to style your bangs every day and the time to get back into the salon for trims? Talk to your hairstylist first if you're not sure about the commitment. 

Choose a bang type that's flattering for your face shape

While the most important thing for rocking any fashion or beauty trend is confidence, you can boost your chances of liking your new haircut by choosing the best bangs for your face shape.

For a heart-shaped face, go for wispy, layered bangs or curtain bangs. If you have a square face, rounded side-swept bangs can be flattering. For a round face, consider blunt bangs or a long, side-swept look, celebrity hairstylist Rebekah Forecast tells Byrdie. If you have an oval-shaped face, consider a choppy fringe or middle-parted bang, though Forecast advises choosing bangs based on the length of your forehead.

When you go to the salon to get your chop, make sure to bring in plenty of pictures of what you're looking for. Be prepared to tell your stylist what you like about each of the cuts you show them, and don't be afraid to ask them what style of bangs they think will look best on your face.

How to style your bangs

Bangs require upkeep both in the salon and at home. If you choose the a cut with bangs, be prepared to get them trimmed every few weeks or learn to cut your own curtain bangs at home. If you choose to cut bangs, you should also be ready for the lengthy process that comes along with growing out your bangs.

Getting used to your new style can take some work, and there are certainly a few things you can do to make sure your style looks fresh every day. Luckily, most styling can be done in just a matter of minutes. Hairstylist Linda de Zeeeuw tells Byrdie that people with bangs should always blow dry before their fringe starts drying naturally since you'll be aiming for a specific look. She suggests using a small round brush, keeping your bangs clean, and making sure to utilize the correct products for your hair type.