How to Style Curtain Bangs – Definitive Guide & 2023 Trends

How to style curtain bangs - faverie

Many people are surprised to learn that the same woman who introduced French women to the bikini also was the first to wear curtain bangs. While French women found the trend revolting and part of a youthful revolution that they wanted no part of, soon curtain bangs made their way to America, where they quickly became a favorite way to style bangs.

Even though that was about 75 years ago, many women still adore their curtain bangs. Come along as we explore these bangs, what it takes to maintain them, and help you decide if they are an ideal choice for you. While they are an excellent choice for many women, including many stars, we will also discuss the advantages and disadvantages of curtain bangs.

Let’s jump right in!

Curtain bangs

Brigette Bardot, Goldie Hawn, Farrah Fawcett, and other Hollywood stars first made curtain bangs famous in the 1960s and 1970s, and they have never gotten out of style since. These bangs are super easy to maintain, perfect for short-and-long hair.

If you are looking for a new hairstyle, then be sure to consider this classic cut that is perfect for framing your face. Let’s take a deeper dive into curtain bangs and why you need to consider them seriously.

What are curtain bangs?

Curtain bangs are cut at a diagonal on both sides of your face, and they usually start from the center part. This type of bangs give your face a softer appearance than bangs cut straight across. They can be cut long enough to pull back on top of your head or incorporated into a shoulder-length cut.

Girl black clothes posing studio indoors

Curtain bangs are ideal for a variety of face shapes. If you have an oval face larger forehead, a curtain cut can help mask it, but if you have a smaller forehead, shorter curtain bangs can make it look longer. It is easy to use this cut to make your face appear slightly wider.

If you have a round face, then textured curtain bangs are ideal for making it look more angular. While I will have more to say about it in a bit, try using texture spray with this look. Consider yourself blessed if you have this face shape because curtain bangs make it easy to create a messy look.

Curtain bangs with a swoop ending just below the brow line are ideal for a heart-shaped face. Use a round brush when drying your hair to add extra bounce. Adding volume to your bangs will make your face look less pointed.

People with long rectangular faces look super in longer curtain bangs. Create a soft look by cutting the shortest pieces to end right below your cheekbones. Wearing your hair in this manner will help your face look rounder.

Individuals with a square face can use shorter curtain bangs to balance their strong jawlines and high cheekbones, and they will help your face look longer.

What are the top advantages of curtain bangs?

One of the most significant benefits of curtain bangs is that they instantly transform any hairstyle. Therefore, they breathe new life into your look while trying to decide what to do with the rest of your hair. As I already discussed, they work on any face shape so that everyone can wear curtain bangs.

One of the most significant advantages of curtain bangs is the many ways you can wear them. If you need your face to look longer, curtain bangs are ideal. Alternatively, if you need your forehead to look smaller, then wear curtain bangs. They are also a great way to add volume to your hair to look wider.

They can help make you fall in love with the parts of your face that you most love. For example, if you have great-looking cheekbones, wearing shorter bangs that pinch in at your temples will naturally draw attention.

You can enjoy that late-night date or get an extra five minutes of sleep in the morning when you wear curtain bangs. These bangs usually grow out beautifully, so you can skip your next hair appointment if you want. They are already textured, so you do not have to master some fancy technique to look fabulous.

When you have burnt the candle on both ends, give them a quick shampooing in the bathroom lavatory and skip the conditioner. You can blow dry them with a barrel brush in under five minutes in most cases. Therefore, you can be ready to impress your date or coworkers in a hurry.

How to choose the best curtain bangs for you?

The first step in choosing the right curtain bangs is to decide what features about your face you love and which ones you hate. Curtain bangs are ideal for making your face look rounder, but the right options can also make it look longer. Therefore, you have to develop an overall plan.

If you want your face to look longer, choose shorter curtain bangs, but if you want to shorten your face, choose a longer option. If you think your face is too narrow, add volume and texture to the sides of your bangs. If you want it to look narrower, select an option that hangs straighter. 

Depending on how you have the stylist cut your curtain bangs, you can even draw attention to particular facial features. For example, if your forehead is your strong suit, opt for short bangs.

Blonde woman side

Alternatively, if your chin is your strong suit, wear your bangs so that they end near it. Having your bangs cut just above your temples and pointed towards your cheekbones will draw attention to them.

You can choose where to add volume and texture to your bangs. Your face will look softer if you add volume to the front. Adding volume to the sides makes athletic and tall ladies look wider. Keeping your bangs smoother can help you look thinner.

There are so many different choices, so be sure to discuss the options with your favorite stylist. The great news is if you change your mind, a stylist can cut your bangs into a different style within six weeks, and sometimes it can happen immediately.

What about curtain bangs maintenance?

Curtain bangs should be cut every five to eight weeks, depending on how long you wear your bangs. You can quickly create many curtain bangs at home with just a barrel brush and a hairdryer. Other styles take almost no styling at all.

If you choose a style of curtain bangs that you need to style with a blow dryer or other head product, then use a three-step system. Choose a shampoo that will help stop hair breakage and a conditioner that will help strengthen your hair. Ensure that you do not play with your hair throughout the day, as oil from your hands can make your hair look nasty.

When you do not wash your hair, use a dry shampoo when styling it. These products will help separate the strands so that they do not tangle and provide your hair with extra volume.

You must choose a stylist who understands how to cut curtain bangs in the way you want them done. Once you find one, return to them every five to eight weeks. Each stylist cuts them a little differently, so sticking with the same one ensures that you continue to like the way that your hair looks.


In the next chapter, we will take a deeper dive into how to style curtain bangs depending on your hair’s length and texture. Therefore, you will want to keep reading.

How to style curtain bangs

If you are unsure how to style curtain bangs, this chapter is for you. There is almost an endless array of ways you can style curtain bangs. In the last chapter, I made some suggestions based on your face shape, but that is not the only factor you should consider.

With so many beautiful options on how to style curtain bangs, it is natural to be a little confused about what will work best for you. Therefore, let’s dive deeper into styling curtain bangs.

Woman posing street hairband

Before we dive into the subject a little deeper, let’s take a brief look at how curtain bangs have appeared on the big and little screens as it will help you get some ideas. 

Brigitte Bardot rocked them in “La vérité.” Farrah Fawcett wore them in “Cannonball Run,” “An Almost Perfect Affair,” and “Murder in Texas,” and Hillary Duff wore them as Lizzie McGuire. 

These bangs have stood the test of time. Yet, they remain one of the hottest trends. One of the reasons is that it is so easy to find a style of curtain bangs that is perfect for your face.

How to style curtain bangs with short hair

People with short hairstyles can have their curtain bangs designed to fall almost over their eyes and end just below their ears. They can allow them to almost fall straight down from a center part before swooping gently to the sides. These bangs can also be cut the same length as the rest of the hair.

While there are other options, curtain bangs look fantastic with different bob styles. For example, you have the stylist create long bangs that almost fall into your eyes and wear them with a textured bob. 

The stylist can also cut them to hang almost straight down from a center part before swooping to the sides in increasingly longer layers. You can also have curtain bags cut so that they frame your face if you have a French or a sleek bob. It does not matter if your hair is curly or straight.

Curtain bangs also look fantastic with shag cuts. You can choose to allow the first bangs to end at the inside edge of your eyebrow. Curtain bangs also work great with pixie cuts.

Regardless of the option you choose, you can wear curtain bangs with short hair that are easy to maintain. In some cases, a quick brushing is all that is required. 

In other cases, use a barrel brush while drying your hair to provide volume. You may also want to consider using rollers, but I will have more to say about that in a moment.

How to style curtain bangs with long hair

Feathered curtain bangs are a great option when you have long hair. You can also pull them back slightly away from your face on each side and let your long hair hide the ends. 

Older women look particularly great when a deep inverted V is used to sweep curtain bangs to the side.

While you can comb curtain bangs straight after they are cut at an angle, leaving them longer and using a 1-to-2-inch round brush while drying your hair is an excellent option for those who need to add volume. 

You can have the stylist start this from a center part, or an inverted V. Keep the brush at an angle while drying your hair.

If you have your hair cut into a long bob, consider having the stylish leave plenty of bangs in the middle and then tapering them to become wispy toward the outside of your face.

Alternatively, instead of letting your curtain bangs fall to the front, longer hair is excellent for using a barrel brush to style them, so they go towards the back of your head. 

Using low heat and a round brush while drying your hair may be all you need to do, and this can be a great way to add volume to your hair.

As I mentioned earlier, deciding on which facial feature you like the best and letting your bangs end there will draw attention to it. Therefore, if you love your jawline, wear long curtain bangs, but if you think your cheekbones look better, then wear them shorter.

How to style curtain bangs with wavy hair

Most women with wavy hair should choose wide-angled curtain bangs. Putting highlights in your hair is an attractive option for your curtain bangs. You can choose to let a few bangs hang down from a center part or have the stylish cut lots of curtain bangs.

As with short and long hair, there are many ways to wear curtain bangs. If you like to wear your hair in a top bun, consider wearing a few curtain bangs on either side of your face to frame it.

While most curtain bangs start from a center part, that is not a hard rule. Therefore, consider starting yours from a side part and letting them sweep across your forehead. 

You can also choose to wear them hanging down the side of your face asymmetrically. Using a round brush to flip them back away from your face can be a great solution.

You can also play with the number of bangs that you want. As I have already stated, you can have a lot or a few curtain bangs. Several factors, including the number, length, and thickness, allow you to customize the look of your curtain bangs.

While the stylist can use regular or blending shears when cutting your curtain bangs, they should always dry your hair before cutting it.

How to style curtain bangs with curly hair

When styling curtain bangs for curly hair, be sure that you keep your bangs long enough that they have room to curl. The stylist should keep your face shape and the length of your hair in mind when cutting your curtain bangs. In most cases, each curl will need to be cut separately.

One look that works well is to wear your hair in a messy top knot. Then, leave your curtain bangs hanging to frame your face. If you choose this look, make sure that you are using products that will add moisture to your hair regularly. Hair that is not properly hydrated will not hang down the sides of your face properly.

Woman looking away finger lips curly hair

If you love just to wash your hair and towel dry it, then curtain bangs are an excellent choice for you because they add an edgy look to your hair that makes it look attractive. 

This is an ideal option for those who love to get the last five minutes of sleep before they rush out the door because a quick brushing is all you need.

Curtain bangs work well with a multitude of half-up half-down looks. Consider using a volume-control shampoo to keep the look controlled. You may also want to use additional products, like a leave-in conditioner, to keep curtain-bang curls under control. 

This styling option is particularly great if you are going to a more formal event, like a dance or theater show.

You can also choose to wear curtain bangs with a lot of volume. In this case, after you wash and condition your hair, then use a large-barrel curling iron on your bangs. This looks particularly great if you part your hair on one side and sweep your bangs to the other side.

How to style curtain bangs with straight hair

It is so easy to wear curtain bangs with straight hair. You can use a round-barrel curling iron to add volume to the bangs or let them hang straight down. You can also add a textured cut to your straight bangs, which gives them more volume naturally.

There are many different lengths that you can choose, so pick the one that is best for you based on your face shape. I already discussed how curtain bangs were perfect for making round faces look longer and long faces look shorter. You can choose to have your curtain bangs cut to bring attention to your favorite facial feature.

Woman smiling looking camera

Consider having your stylist cut your bangs to swoop to the side naturally. If you are one of those people who have hair without any wave at all, then this can be a great option to add some movement to your hair.

Curtain bangs look great with layered looks. This option adds volume and texture to your hair, so it instantly looks healthier. Consider ending your bangs at the same point as your shortest layer so that it blends with the rest of your hair beautifully.

If you love to wear your hair pulled back in a ponytail, then leaving a few curtain bangs hanging down in the front adds style to the cut. In this case, you can use a curling iron to curl your curtain bangs or let them hang straight. You can wear any style of ponytail that you love with this look.

How to style curtain bangs at home

Curtain bangs are incredibly easy to style at home using tools and products you already own, like a curling iron, round brush, and hairdryer. In some cases, you may not need tools at all if you like a messy look. Of course, your bangs will look best if your hair is healthy.

While I will go into each of these techniques more in the following sections, so you will want to keep reading, you can use a curling iron to style curtain bangs. 

A 1-to-1.25-inch curling iron is an excellent option for controlling your curtain bangs. After you have them in place, consider using a texture spray and a medium-hold hairspray to keep them that way.

If you want a simple option, use a round brush while blow-drying your hair to add volume and get it to go in the direction that you want it to go. When drying your hair with a round brush, use low heat to set the hair better without causing as much damage to your hair’s ends.

If you have curly or wavy hair, a straightener may be a good idea. You can straighten your hair enough to have the curls you want or straighten it all the way and curl it using another tool.

How to style curtain bangs overnight

You can use hair curlers to style curtain bangs while you sleep. You need to comb or brush your hair well to remove any lingering product before you start putting the curlers in. Then, use a dry shampoo to stop oily buildup in your hair. Then, pin your hair onto the rollers and sleep.

You need to use a two-step process to remove any hair products in your hair before you start rolling it at night. The first step is to brush your bangs well. You can use a comb or a paddle brush but ensure that you reach each strand.

Then, use a dry shampoo to ensure further that no product remains. Consider using products that contain natural ingredients as they are better for your health. You should also choose a dry shampoo for your type of hair. Follow the directions on the spray or powder carefully.

Use curlers that are the right size for your curtain bangs. Then, roll your bangs up on the curlers. You can create many different styles of curtain bangs depending on how you position the curlers. Secure the rollers with bobby pins at the very end of your hair.

In the morning, remove the curlers and brush your hair. You may want to use hairspray to hold your bangs in place.

How to cut your own curtain bangs

While I highly recommend heading to your favorite stylists to trim your curtain bangs, you can cut them at home, assuming you are brave enough. The most effortless curtain bangs to cut at home are center-parted ones, and they are the ones we will be focusing on in this section.

Start by making sure that your hair is clean. Then, identify the top of your head. If you take your comb and lay flat on this spot, it will not be tilting in any direction. This point, which is usually 2 to 3 inches behind the start of your hairline, is where you should start cutting bangs.

Next, find the high point in the arch of your eyebrows. Make a part between the center point and this point. Using clips to section off your hair carefully can help you keep this part straight. Repeat on the other side of your head.

Wet one section of your hair and brush it down over your face so that it forms a sheet. Move the comb to your chin and raise it through your hair, keeping it perfectly aligned with your chin. Be a little conservative because you can always take more off, but you cannot put it back on.

Repeat the procedure while tapering your bangs towards the outside of your face. Once you have one side cut, then cut the other part.

How to curl curtain bangs

You can use a flat iron, curling wand, or rollers to curl your curtain bangs. You can also use a round brush while blow-drying your hair. When you use heat on your hair, it is essential to keep it healthy by using conditioners to close the hair’s ends and lock in moisture.

Hairstylist curling hair reading magazine

While I offer many more details elsewhere in this section, generally, the process is the same. Start by protecting your hair with a heat-protection product. Usually, the spray is the simplest to use. This will help stop dead and split ends that generally occur when you style your hair often.

Then, choose the tool you want to use to curl your hair. The simplest option is to use a round brush while blow-drying your hair. You can also use a straightener, curling iron, or flat iron. You may want to ask your stylist which tool they think will be best for your hair’s cut and style.

Work in small sections. While there will be some minor differences depending on exactly how the stylist cuts your hair, generally, you will want to start at the part and work your way to the sides at an angle.

After you have curled all your bangs, you can use hairspray to hold the look in place. You can also use a round brush to brush out some of the segments to give your hair a more natural appearance. Once you are satisfied with the look, spray them to stay in place.

How to style curtain bangs with a straightener

It is easy to style curtain bangs when you use a straightener. Start with clean, dry hair and add some heat protectant spray or powder to your bangs. Depending on how you use the straightener in your hair, you can create several looks.

Consider parting your hair in the middle and separating each side into smaller sections. Starting on the right side, use the straightener to form a C pointing towards the center of your forehead. Move to the other side and repeat this step. 

Keep switching sides and doing small bunches of your hair until you are almost in the middle. Then, take the final section of hair and use your straightener to flip it under.

You can also repeat almost the same procedure and reverse the C’s direction. This is an easy way to create side-swept bangs. Once you get to the middle, make a slight wave with your remaining hair. You may want to use a brush to softly bring the bangs together once you finish straightening them.

You can even skip the hairdryer altogether and use the straightener to create waves in your bangs. This works best when your bangs stop at or above your cheekbones. Otherwise, you can create a wavy look using a curling iron. Just make small waves in your bangs while remembering to work in small bunches of hair at one time.

How to style curtain bangs with a blow-dryer

You do not even need tools besides a blow-dryer to style curtain bangs. If you are going to blow dry your curtain bangs, then a middle part is not optional. Additionally, you will need a round brush. This is the easiest way to style curtain bangs, and it only takes a few moments.

There are several points to remember when you are blow-drying curtain bangs. Blow drying your curtain bangs before the rest of your hair helps ensure that they lay right. Be sure that you blow-dry your bangs from the top and left and right to start laying where they belong.

After your hair is almost dry, use a small round brush to curl under the bangs on your forehead. The shorter your bangs are, the smaller the round brush should be.

The next step is to fix the longer bangs on the side of your face. Start by grabbing this hair with your round brush and pulling it towards your face. Then, twist the brush back away from your face. Drying your bangs using this technique adds volume to your hair. Use a diffuser on your hairdryer to direct the heat better.

Then, blow-dry the rest of your hair. After your hair is completely dry, come back and make sure that you have your bangs completely dry. Use a comb or brush to give your bangs a final styling before spraying them into place.

How to style curtain bangs with a flat iron

If you plan to style your curtain bangs regularly with a flat iron, choose one with titanium plates and adjustable temperatures, as they will do less damage to your hair. If you have thick hair, use a flat iron about 1.5 inches in diameter, but those with thinner hair can use a thinner one.

As with any time you use a heat device on your hair, you need to use a spray or powder heat protectant. This helps keep your hair healthier as it locks in moisture. If your hair is wet, use a blow-dryer to dry your hair before using a flat iron on it.

Start by dividing your hair out into sections. Usually, you can divide the sections by finding the flat point on the top of your head. Then, divide your hair down the front to make a center part. Clip your hair into a right, middle and left section.

Start with the right section. Further, divide the section into the top and bottom layers. Starting with the bottom layer, pull the flat iron through your hair from the roots to its tips. Form a large letter C with your wrist as you pull the flat iron through your hair. 

Then, go back and do the same with the top section. Work your way across your forehead. If you are not happy with how one section looks, then redo it.

This makes all of your bangs look the same. If that is not how you like to wear your hair, use your fingers or a comb to reposition some of the hair. Once you are happy with the results, use hairspray to hold it in place.

How to style curtain bangs with a curling iron

It is fast and easy to use a curling iron to style your curtain bangs. You should also use texture spray to add volume to your hair and a medium-hold hairspray after you are done to keep your bangs in place.

Start by using a heat-protectant spray on your bangs before drying them with the hairdryer or utilizing the curling iron. This helps to keep your hair healthy and strong. This spray will also help stop your hair from looking frizzy as it locks in moisture and closes the ends of your hair. Usually, products containing hydrating keratin work best.

The next step is to blow dry your hair roughly. I have already discussed this earlier, so keep the details I shared there in mind when completing this step.

After your hair is almost dry, use your curling iron to fix your bangs. A small round curling iron is usually the best choice. You should work in small sections to create the look you want.

After curling your hair, you can brush out the curls using a round hairbrush to create a more natural appearance or leave them more tightly curled. Then, hold them in place with some hair spray.

How to style curtain bangs with rollers

It is effortless to style curtain bangs with Velcro rollers. You can follow the instructions I already gave and let them stay in overnight. You can also roll your hair and use a blow-dryer to get the same results quickly. Whichever method you choose, rollers are a great way to style curtain bangs.

Woman hair sitting home applying hair rollers

If you want to use Velcro rollers and your hairdryer, start by applying a heat protectant to your hair. Hot air dries out your hair, so you need to take steps to protect it. Otherwise, it will become frizzy.

Now, section off your bangs. Start by putting a comb against your head horizontally and find the point where it lays flat. Then, part your hair into three equal sections starting at this point.

Working only on the left or right section of your hair, slide the roller under part of your hair. Roll it from the tip of your hair towards your scalp. Continue until you have all your bangs in one section done. Then, move on to the next. Continue until you have all your bangs in rollers.

Use your hair dryer with a diffuser to blow dry your bangs. While the hair protectant will help provide some protection, it is always best to work at a low heat setting when drying your hair.

Wait at least 15 minutes and remove the rollers. Your hair needs time to cool down. Then, spray your hair lightly with hairspray. Finally, take the rollers out.

How to style curtain bangs with a round brush

You can easily style curtain bangs with a round brush. Use a brush that will lift the hair without damaging it. Lifting the round brush towards the ceiling while turning it gives your hair more volume. Be sure to hairspray it in place once you are happy with the results.

Hands dryer round brush hair

If your hair is wet, use the instructions above to blow dry your curtain bangs. Choose a round brush that is the right size for your bangs. If your bangs are short, a 1-inch round brush is an ideal choice. If they are longer, use a brush with at least a 1.5-inch diameter.

If your hair has enough volume, start on one side of your head and place the brush behind your bangs. Twist the brush towards the crown of your head. This will allow the bangs to sweep into place. Once you are happy with the results, use hairspray to hold your bangs in place.

If you need to add volume to your hair while styling your curtain bangs, then lift your bangs away from your face while twisting the brush. Concentrate on pulling the hair straight up before you start turning the brush. Then, put hairspray in place.

Using either of these directions will give you sleek curtain bangs. A medium-hold hairspray is usually enough. Alternatively, if you like a more natural look, use a texture spray to keep your bangs in place.


This chapter has taught you how to style curtain bangs using many different tools. In the next chapter, we will take a deep dive into how many stars wear curtain bangs. You can easily take inspiration from them.

How celebrities style curtain bangs

If you have not quite decided if curtain bangs are for you, consider how different celebrities style them may help you make up your mind. They wear them in a variety of ways, and you can too.

Curtain bangs are quick to style, and you can quickly master the look at home. There are so many tools that you can use when creating curtain bangs that you probably can use the ones that you already own. It is also easy to trim your bangs at home, so they make a great option if you find it challenging to regularly get to the hair salon.

French actress Brigitte Bardot, who also brought the bikini to the masses, was one of the first to wear curtain bangs. Her fellow countrywomen viewed her as untamed and free, and they saw her look as bolstering youthfulness. 

Brigitte bardot

While the look has become mainstream, it will also help you look younger in many cases. She loved the look so much that she wore it until she was over 85 years old.

While the style went out of fashion quickly for French women, American women soon started wearing the look. One of the first was Farrah Fawcet, who first wore the look in 1971.

These two are only a couple of the famous women who have sported this bang style. Let’s look at how other stars wore it.

Selena Gomez

Selena Gomez wears her hair in a bob with curtain bangs. The star of Hulu’s “Only Murders in the Building” proves that curtain bangs can be messy, and many women will appreciate that fact. 

Her curtain bangs come from a center part and end about the top of her cheekbones. She wears a few longer strands to help add a trendy look to the cut. I guess that her cut can easily be stylized to look sleeker when she appears on the red carpet.

Dakota Johnson

A short curtain cut looks perfect on Dakota Johnson. Mark Townsend has been doing Johnson’s hair since they met on” Fifty Shades of Grey” more than a decade ago. He says that the star that always wears her hair with side-swept curtain bangs always uses dry products in her hair and washes it the day before a big event. 

Her middle bangs come at least to the base of her nose, and the cut tapers up on the sides to the top of her cheekbones. As she did for the 2021 Sundance Music Festival, Johnson often wears her hair up in a top bun and lets her curtain bangs frame her face.

Ariana Grande

Less than a month after the release of her “Positions” album in October 2020, Ariana Grande got a new haircut featuring curtain bangs. Stylist Josh Liu is responsible for this beautiful cut, which was the first time Ariana appeared in bangs since 2017. 

The music star’s curtain cut is short enough that she can leave the bangs down if she wants and long enough to pin back in her ponytail if she wants. The star showed off her new look on her Instagram account by wearing it with a half-up half-down ponytail.

Alexa Chung

Fashion blogger and British television star Alexa Chung proves it is easy to wear side-swept curtain bangs. Her curtain bangs start with a center part, and then they are cut longer on the right side than on the left. 

While only a few know exactly how she achieves her exact look, it is likely by using a round brush to pull the hair down and to the right. In fact, on most days, it is expected that Chung uses only a round brush and a hairdryer to style her hair before television fashion interviews.

Gigi Hadid

Supermodel Gigi Hadid sported a new wispy curtain bang cut right before the winter holidays in 2021. The curtain bangs beautifully frame her face, and she chooses to keep the rest of her long hair. 

It is a look that should be easy for the model to maintain along with her new busy schedule of taking care of her daughter, who was born in February. Over 3.7 million people liked her Instagram post within the first 7 hours when she chose to show off her new look.

Dr. Jill Biden

First Lady Dr. Jill Biden proves that women of all age groups can beautifully wear curtain bangs. She sports a layered haircut with her curtain bangs. Her bangs end right above her cheekbones, which may be her best facial feature. It starts with a center part. 

Jill biden speech

The first lady probably finds this haircut easy to maintain. She has sported this look for a long time, although it seems to have become a little more polished and less wispy in the last couple of years.


We have already covered a lot of material on curtain bangs. You will want to consider this hot trend for your hair. I will share the advantages and disadvantages of this style in the next chapter, so be sure to keep reading.

Pros & cons of curtain bangs

If you are still undecided if curtain bangs are for you, it may help to consider their advantages and disadvantages. Experts report that most people love their curtain bangs, but that may not apply to you.

Therefore, making a list of their pros and cons can assist you in thinking through if they are an excellent choice for you. In the process, you may also discover which type of curtain bang will look best on you, given your face shape, lifestyle, and facial characteristics.

Should I get curtain bangs?

There are advantages and disadvantages to curtain bangs. The great news is that they can be grown out quickly in most cases. If you decide to get them and change your mind, you have not made a long-term commitment.

With many choices available, you can think of it like test driving a car. If you change your mind, all you have to do is go back to your favorite stylist.

There are many possibilities available. Some take almost no time to prepare, and some you can roll and get ready overnight. Others require a little more commitment. There is a choice for those who want a wash-and-go hairstyle and those who enjoy spending time fixing their hair. 

It is easy to wear curtain bangs with various haircuts, including shags, bobs, and layers. You can leave them hanging straight down or sweep them to the side. You can find options that camouflage things you hate about your face and others that will draw attention to the things that you love. The possibilities are almost endless.

Pros of Curtain Bangs

Requires little maintenance

If you have a schedule packed with 101 things, then curtain bangs can be a great solution. A little preparation with rollers overnight or a quick blow dry and a round brush in the morning may be all that is required to make you look fabulous. 

Therefore, you are not committing to a hairstyle that will take hours to get ready. Additionally, this style requires no fancy skills to maintain as you only use basic equipment and techniques. 

In most cases, you will only need to head to the salon about every six weeks for a trim, and some women can even trim their bangs at home.

Looks flattering on most people

Curtain bangs soften the look of your face, which is an excellent option for most women. Depending on how you style your curtain bangs, they can draw attention to your best facial features, but I will have more to say about that later in this list. They easily allow you to wear your hair in more than one color.

While curtain bangs are very useful for framing your face, you can choose to wear an edgier style. This can be a great option that may help you look younger, but I will also have more to say about that in a bit..

Makes you look younger

When your curtain bangs end above your cheekbones, they give off a youthful radiance. They make your face look smaller and slimmer when cut to draw attention to your cheekbones. 

Woman looking side holding glasses
Source: Dmitry Vechorko on Unsplash

A slightly different style does a beautiful job of drawing attention to your eyes. When you properly take care of your curtain bangs, they have a natural bounce, which helps you look younger naturally.

This is especially true of people with wavy hair who may have trouble wearing other styles of bangs. A stylist can cut them so that the wave works with the person’s face, making it appear younger.

Grows out quickly if you hate it

Many curtain bang cuts grow out quickly, so if you do not like the look, you have made a minimal commitment. If you choose longer bangs, a stylist can recut them to look like part of your shag or layer look. 

Additionally, longer bangs can often be pulled up and incorporated into a top knot or top ponytail. Sometimes, you can also bring them to the side and cover them with hair from the rest of your head. 

In most cases, you can eliminate them in under five weeks and often much sooner. Therefore, you have very little to lose when trying curtain bangs.

Covers part of your forehead wrinkles

Curtain bangs that hang straight down or sweep to the side of your forehead are a great way to mask forehead wrinkles. This is especially true if you choose wavy or textured bangs because someone would have to look closely to see the wrinkles.

If this is why you are choosing curtain bangs, consider those that start with a center part and where both sides lay close to each other in the middle. Leaving longer bangs on the outside can help draw the viewer’s eye to other facial features, such as great cheekbones or a strong jawline.

Highlights your best facial features

I have already alluded to this point a couple of times, but wearing your curtain bangs at different lengths helps draw attention to your best facial features. For example, if you have beautiful cheekbones, make your longest curtain bangs stop right above them. If you have a strong jawline, ending your bangs even with it can help.

Incidentally, wearing a fringe with volume can make women who are narrow look wider. This can be an excellent option for women with an athletic build who struggle to put on weight because it makes them look bulkier. Additionally, wearing short bangs can make short women look taller, making their face look longer.

Maintains easily at home

I spent a lot of space in the second chapter discussing how to style curtain bangs. Whichever option you choose, it will only take a few minutes to fix curtain bangs. This makes them an excellent choice for busy women. 

You can even put them up in rollers before you go to bed and unroll them in the morning. It takes even less time to create messy curtain bangs, a trendy style.

Some women find that they can even cut their curtain bangs. While I have not been brave enough to try, many women do it successfully at home all the time.

Accommodates different hairstyles

Curtain bangs look incredible with many hairstyles. For example, if you like to wear your hair short, they look super with many bob styles. On the other hand, if you prefer medium to long hair, like shags and layered looks, you can easily wear them. They also look super cute with ponytails.

Woman portrait posing looking camera
Source: Abbat on Unsplash

While they are perfect for the office and casual days, it is also easy to wear curtain bangs with updos. They can easily be worn straight down or twisted into ringlets that create a frame for your face.

Works with different face shapes

Regardless of your face shape, you can easily find an option that works well with it. Options with a fringe on the side or only covering the top part of your forehead will make you appear taller. Therefore, they are ideal for women with round or square faces. 

Side-swept bangs are an excellent choice for heart-shaped faces, and longer options are perfect for women with rectangular faces. Women with oval-shaped faces can wear almost any style of curtain bangs. There are so many options for each type that trying to decide can be challenging.

Fits different times in your life

Once you master fixing your curtain bangs, you may not need another option for the rest of your life. For example, they are perfect for high school girls going to prom, graduation, and other formal events. 

Young mothers find them an ideal choice because they are easy to fix, and all you may need is a blow-dryer and a round brush. 

They can help you look great at meetings as they highlight your best facial features. Curtain bangs are also ideal for older adults as they often give the face a more youthful appearance.

Cons of Curtain Bangs

Can be sweaty

Any bangs can make you warmer. Once you start sweating, it can be very challenging to maintain the look of your curtain bangs throughout the day. Furthermore, they are likely to wilt. 

You can stop some of the wilting by being sure to use a round brush to lift them as far away from your face as possible, making them less likely to stick to your forehead. Additionally, thin, side-swept bangs are less likely to make you feel even warmer and will hold their shape better.

Contributes to zit breakouts, possibly

Bangs can continue to cause acne by trapping oil, dirt, and sweat. This is especially true if you use any oily products to maintain your curtain bangs. Additionally, hair products can cause pores to clog. 

One of the best things you can do is be careful when applying hair care products so that you do not get them on your skin any more than necessary. 

Try avoiding products containing coconut oil and sodium laureth sulfate ingredients. You may also want to consider bang options that allow you to pull them up when the weather gets hot.

Requires some maintenance

If you like a wash-and-forget hairstyle, curtain bangs may not suit you. At a minimum, you need to use a round brush and a blow-dryer to style them. Alternatively, you may sleep in rollers and remove them in the morning. 

Many curtain bang styles require you to use a curling or flat iron to fix them. While I will have more to say about it in a moment, if you have curly hair, then you may need even more time to style curtain bangs.

You also need to get them trimmed about every six weeks or cut them yourself. Asking the advice of a stylist about how much time you will need to fix your hair in the morning may help you decide if these bangs are right for you.

May require additional upkeep depending on your hair’s texture.

Women who have curly hair may find the upkeep of curtain bangs very time-consuming. They may need to wash their hair and then blow-dry it before using a straightener to remove their curls. 

Next, they may need a curling iron or flat iron to fix their bangs. Especially in humid weather, women with curly hair may find that they must fix their hair multiple times a day to keep it looking its best.

Women with wavy hair may have to follow a similar procedure depending on the amount of waves in their hair. Therefore, you will want to talk to your stylist to see if they think that this type of bang is right for your hair. As you already know, wavy hair can have a mind, so getting it to lay right can be challenging.

Can get messy with bad weather

It can be challenging to tame your curtain bangs in bad weather. Depending on your hair’s texture, humid weather can make it look fizzy. It can be challenging to wear a winter hat with curly bangs because they tend to smash your hair. If the weather is windy, then bangs may not stay in place. 

For shorter bangs, that may mean you have to go to the restroom and fix your hair. On the other hand, women with longer bangs may find that they blow into their eyes. Individual strands you have worked hard to keep separated may want to tangle together.

Can cause damage to hair

Most curtain bangs require heat to style them, which can damage them. Therefore, it is always essential to use a product to protect your hair. These products lock in moisture and help prevent damaged ends. 

While you can find powders, sprays are usually the easiest to use. The best options typically contain meadowfoam seed oil and VP/DMAPA acrylates copolymer to help stop moisture loss. 

They also contain aloe or argan oil to help prevent damage to the ends of hair follicles. While it will take a little longer, you should do your part by using your heating devices at low levels as they will cause less damage.

Washing daily may be required

Since you will probably need to use hairspray and heat protectant on your hair daily, you will need to wash your bangs daily. This is especially true if your hair tends to be oily anyway. Therefore, while considering if curtain bangs are right for you, you must think about the time commitment. 

Woman park holds ponytail
Source: Joshua Rondeau on Unsplash

You may not need to shower daily, but you will need to wash your bangs. You can use a basin of water if you wish, but you must get all the old products out before putting new products in.

Can get expensive to maintain

Depending on how you style your curtain bangs, they can be expensive to maintain. You will need to use a heat protectant to protect your hair from heat damage in almost all cases. You will also need to use hairspray to keep your bangs in place. 

If you like an edgy look to your bangs, you may need to use a leave-in conditioner to help keep the strands separated. You must use good quality products that will do their jobs without causing even more damage to your hair. While each product is only a few dollars, it can get expensive over time.

Must be trimmed regularly

Depending on how fast your hair grows, you will generally need to trim your curtain bangs every six weeks. In chapter two, I told you how to do that at home, but that is not something every woman is comfortable doing. 

Many stylists charge a cheaper fee if all you need is a bang trim. Since all stylists cut curtain bangs a little different, once you find someone whose style you like, return to them each time. 

If possible, wash and dry your hair without any product right before your appointment. That way, your hair will be ready for the stylist to trim it.

Need to use tools to maintain

The exact tools that you use may vary depending on your curtain bang’s style. You will need a round brush and a blow-dryer at a minimum, and you may need a flat or curling iron or a straightener in other cases. 

Before committing to curtain bangs, consider if you already have these tools. Talk to your stylist about which one she thinks would be best for your hair. Then, make sure that you budget for these expenses before getting your hair cut.


I will have some concluding thoughts about curtain bangs in the next chapter. Therefore, I encourage you to keep reading, and you will not want to miss these thoughts. It is vital that you consider every angle before committing to curtain bangs.

Conclusion

Do you know someone who would look perfect in curtain bangs? Perhaps, you are a hairstylist who has customers who need to consider this bang style. Then, please share this post with them. Even if they still bulk at the idea, they will appreciate how much you care.

If you have questions, please feel free to ask. I will do my best to answer them. We all learn by asking questions, so do not be afraid to pose your questions.

While you are waiting for an answer, then read our other posts. You will find lots of helpful information to help you look even more fashionable.

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