They say a fringe is the easiest, non-committal way to add a bit of oomph to your hair. We’re not so convinced. As any fellow bang-getters know, the majority of us that take the plunge end up pinning it back two weeks later; simply because we don’t know how to keep up with its demanding maintenance. But it can be easy. Because despite the effort, with the right advice, fringes do have a multitude of benefits: they camouflage a high forehead, make long, thin faces appear fuller and all but nullify the want for Botox. So, from how to style a fringe to smoothing cowlicks, here’s everything you need to know to make one work for you.
Think about your forehead
It sounds odd, but you should always consider how far back a fringe should start on the forehead. If there’s not much space between your brows and hairline, start two inches back to make a smaller forehead appear longer. Very fine or thick hair is the exception to this: If you start more than one inch back, you’ll take too much from the sides and end up looking like one of the Beatles circa 1964. Ask your stylist for advice.
Your face shape is important
It’s not a myth, sadly your face shape does impact how a style may suit you, but the upside is there really is one for everybody.
For long and narrow faces: Blunt fringes are best, ones that hit just below the brows as this will make your face look fuller.
For round or square faces: Bangs can make circular faces appear even wider, so finding the right shape is key. Ask for a graphic, curved style that will flatter bone structure. The thicker the better, as wispy versions will have less impact.
For heart-shaped faces: You’re the lucky ones and can get away with pretty much everything – short, long or arched. But if you want something definitive, the ideal style is layered and feathered, where the shortest pieces hit the arch of your eyebrows, and the longest meet the outer corner of your eyes.
Curly ladies can join in
Anyone that says you can’t is mistaken. But, the key is to make sure the hair is cut dry, as this will take out the guesswork for how your bangs will look with their natural texture. A good trick is not to let the fringe grow below the brows, this means it won’t drag the face down. As for styling, comb the bangs down and apply a little styling product. Once dry, use a mini flatiron to smooth (not straighten) ends plus any static.
TOP TIP: Smooth flyaways with a teeny dab of wax. We recommend Sebastian’s Professional Shine Crafter Wax, £19.25, which won’t flake or dry crunchy.
Sebastian Shine Crafter Mouldable Styling Wax
Sebastian Shine Crafter Mouldable Styling Wax
Cowlicks are an issue, but not unmanageable
You’ll never get rid of a true cowlick – especially if it’s been there since childhood – but that doesn’t mean you can’t train it. Try wearing a hat for 15 minutes or so to keep hair flat against the head, your body heat will set your fringe to be a little smoother. It may sound silly, but it works. Failing that, using a mini flatiron will work wonders, just be sure to move it quickly in an arc motion so your hair doesn’t crease. Try the Ghd Mini Styler, £119.
Rollers will become your best friend
If you’ve never used rollers before, invest in some Velcro ones stat. They may be old school, but they’re also the perfect remedy for an unruly, flyaway fringe. Not to mention, the quickest (and most affordable) way to fake a blow-dry. Our favourites are the Boots Vented Self Stick Rollers (Large), £4.50.
TOP TIP: To get rid of too much volume in a fringe, try combing anti-frizz cream through damp hair. It will keep it from puffing up as it dries. Try the excellent Kerastase Discipline Keratin Smoothing Milk, from £19.80, which will smooth your hair without leaving it greasy.
Kerastase Kérastase Discipline Keratin Thermique Creme 150ml
Try a fringe on for size
If you’re still sitting on the fence, opt for a clip-in fringe. They’re the perfect way to test the look without the growing-out stage. You can also get your stylist to wash and style them so they move in the direction you want – or ask them to cut if necessary. We rate the The Clip In Fringe by Hershesons, £40, available in various colours.
Stock up on dry shampoo
There’s no doubt that you’ll be touching and playing with your fringe a lot, especially at the beginning, which will just produce extra oiliness. Plus, if you have an oily complexion, sebum will likely transfer from your forehead to your fringe. We recommend travelling with a little mini dry shampoo, like Living Proof's Perfect Hair Day (PhD) Dry Shampoo, it’s perfect for stopping a fringe from separating too much, and to keep it fresh and volumised throughout the day.
Living Proof Perfect Hair Day (PhD) Dry Shampoo 92ml
Living Proof Perfect Hair Day (PhD) Dry Shampoo 92ml
Meanwhile, enjoy this inspiration for your new fringe...
The best celebrity fringes
