Long hair with bangs has become the reigning hair trend right now, thanks to ‘70s style curtain bangs stepping up their influence and infiltrating the strands of celebrities, influencers, our besties and our work huns, everywhere. But, it’s not just Sabrina Carpenter-worthy curtain fringes that are racking up the style's popularity. We're seeing every flavour of fringe from noughties bangs, micro fringes, choppy fringes, barely there bangs, French Girl fringes and curve bangs all pair with long hair to add extra personality.
Chopping in a set of bangs is undoubtedly one of the easiest (and coolest) ways to elevate long hair. It scratches the itch for a style switch-up without the long-term commitment of a shorter haircut. "With long hair, fringes can really liven up a hairstyle and highlight facial features," says Stephen Buller, co-founder of Buller and Rice.
When it comes to style, there's endless options, meaning it's really dealer's choice when it comes to deciding on the type of fringe you want for longer hair. But what each cut has in common is face-framing pieces that either draw attention to the eyes or softly contour the cheekbones or jawline.
What fringe look best with long hair?
Ah, the million dollar question. The easy answer: it depends who you ask. '70s curtain bangs – as seen on Sabrina Carpenter and Matilda Djerf – are popular because "they're not heavy fringes, they suit pretty much everyone, are easy to grow out and very low-maintenance,” says Luke Hersheson, top hairstylist and CEO of Hershesons.
Stephen believes the best type of fringes are those that "offer versatility," as "they are often easiest to style at home." For example, he's a big fan of Billie Eilish's bangs: “Billie has a soft, sexy, layered haircut, with face-framing layers that seamlessly connect into the fringe,” he says. "A fringe that has a softer edge and allows you to move it around or even get caught in the wind, without it looking ruined," he notes.
Both Stephen and Luke have also noticed an uptick in requests for ‘shag bangs’, which Luke says are especially flattering for curly hair. “Shag bangs are a bit more rock ‘n’ roll than curtain bangs and more layered at the sides,” explains Luke. “These layers give you volume, which looks especially subtle and flattering on curly hair.”
Stephen also advises those with curly hair to choose a fringe that sits somewhere between a shag and wolf bangs. The style is defined by "longer hair, styled with shorter, shattered layering that flows from the fringe," he says, and is "best worn with natural, wavy textures, that could be enhanced with a curling wand, for extra definition."
Chin bangs are also a stand-out fringe cut right now and serve up the perfect Goldilocks sweet spot of framing the face with soft Bardot-like tendrils and ensuring you don't lose too much length.
Not to be confused with curtain bangs (too shaggy), chin bangs have a grown-out vibe. But, as the name implies, the entire length of the fringe cascades down to the chin rather than falling in layers.
Here's all the inspo for this dreamy autumn hair update.
Here are our favourite long hair with bangs ideas to give you the ultimate hit of inspiration...
