Curtain bangs are a popular hairstyle that has been gaining a lot of attention recently. They are soft, parted bangs that frame the face, similar to how curtains frame a window.
This style first became popular in the 1970s, worn by icons like Farrah Fawcett. Now, it’s making a big comeback. Celebrities such as Dakota Johnson and Alexa Chung have been seen wearing curtain bangs, making them the go-to hairstyles for many. It is popular because it frames the face beautifully and works with various hair types.
In 2024, curtain bangs were trending on social media platforms, with over 4.5 billion views under the hashtag #curtainbangs on TikTok. It is a go-to style for those wanting a low-maintenance yet stylish haircut that flatters almost everyone.
This article is a detailed account of how to cut curtain bangs. Additionally, we will discuss the common mistakes to avoid, aftercare, and maintenance tips to get an amazing experience of having curtain bangs. So, let’s begin styling your fringes here!
Understanding Curtain Bangs
Curtain bangs are a face-framing hairstyle, where the bangs are parted down the middle or slightly off-centre. They’re cut longer on the sides, tapering in towards the middle and creating a soft and flowing shape.
What sets curtain bangs apart from other bangs is their versatility. Unlike blunt bangs, which require frequent trims, curtain bangs grow out more gracefully and blend into the rest of your hair. This makes them ideal for people who want a low-maintenance fringe.
Curtain bangs suit many face shapes. If you have a heart-shaped face, they can balance the forehead, and for oval faces, they highlight cheekbones. According to expert hairstylist Kristin Ess, “curtain bangs are one of the easiest ways to soften facial features without a drastic haircut.” The key to making them work is adjusting the length to your unique face shape and features.
This style also complements various hair textures. Whether your hair is thick, thin, wavy, or straight, curtain bangs can be customized to match. Haircare experts suggest adding layers for thicker hair or keeping the bangs longer for a more relaxed, boho look on finer hair. They can even work for curly hair with proper cutting techniques to prevent puffiness.
Tools Required to Cut Curtain Bangs
You will need the right tools or accessories to cut curtain bangs at home for a clean and precise result. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Hair-Cutting Scissors: These are sharper and smaller than regular scissors, giving you better control and cleaner cuts.
- Fine-Tooth Comb: Helps section your hair evenly for a precise cut.
- Hair Clips: Keeps the rest of your hair out of the way, so you only cut what’s needed.
- Spray Bottle (Optional): Lightly mist your hair to make it easier to work with.
- Mirror Setup: If possible, use two mirrors – one in front and one behind to ensure an even cut.
- Blow-Dryer and Round Brush: These will help style your bangs for the signature curtain look.
Remember, having the right tools makes all the difference. Professional scissors and a good setup will help you avoid mistakes and get better results.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cutting Curtain Bangs
Here’s how you can cut your curtain bangs at home in a few simple steps. Follow these carefully to get the best results without any stress:
Step 1: Preparation
- Wash and dry your hair: Clean and dry hair gives a more accurate cut. Wet hair can stretch, leading to shorter-than-expected bangs.
- Section your hair: Use a comb to create a triangle section at the front of your hair. Start from the centre of your head and bring the section down to the outer corners of your eyes. Clip the rest of your hair back to avoid cutting it by mistake.
- Decide the length: Look at where you want your bangs to fall. A good starting point is at your cheekbones or just below.
Step 2: Start Cutting
- Work in small sections: Take the triangle section you created and divide it into two smaller sections, parting them in the middle.
- Cut at an angle: Hold a small section of hair between your fingers, pulling it down slightly. Using your hair-cutting scissors, cut diagonally, shorter in the middle and longer on the sides. This creates a soft face-framing shape.
- Go slowly: Cut a little bit at a time to avoid making your bangs too short. You can always trim more later, but you can’t undo a big cut.
Step 3: Refine the Shape
- Check for balance: Stand back and look in the mirror to see if both sides are even. Trim any uneven sections carefully.
- Blend the bangs: If your bangs seem too blunt, use point cutting. Hold your scissors vertically and snip the ends lightly to create a softer look.
Step 4: Style Your Curtain Bangs
- Blow-dry with a round brush: Use a blow-dryer and a round brush to curl your bangs away from your face. This helps give them that signature curtain bang shape.
- Use a light styling product: A small amount of mousse or styling cream will help hold the shape while keeping your bangs soft and natural-looking.
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How to Style Curtain Bangs for Different Hair Types?
- Straight Hair: Use a round brush to add volume and shape. A small amount of mousse can help.
- Wavy Hair: Enhance natural waves with a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer. Lightly curl your bangs with a flat iron for extra definition.
- Curly Hair: Use a curl-defining cream and a wide-tooth comb to define your bangs. Let them air dry naturally for a soft, textured look.
- Heat-Free Styling: If you want to avoid heat, use large rollers. Wrap your damp bangs around the rollers and let them air dry for a massive and soft wave.
- Finishing Products: Use a light texture spray for extra hold without making the hair stiff. For a sleek look, apply a small amount of shine serum.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cutting curtain bangs can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them:
1. Cutting Too Much Hair
How to fix: Start with a small section. You can always add more, but you can’t undo an overcut.
2. Making Bangs Too Short
How to fix: Cut on dry hair or leave extra length if cutting wet, as hair shrinks when dry.
3. Cutting Straight Across
How to fix: Always cut at an angle for the soft, face-framing shape.
4. Uneven Cutting
How to fix: Check both sides often to ensure balance before trimming more.
5. Using Wrong Tools
How to fix: Use professional hair-cutting scissors for a cleaner and precise cut.
6. Skipping Styling
How to fix: Blow-dry with a round brush to give your bangs the right shape.
Famed hairstylist Jen Atkin and other advises that When cutting bangs, always remember to start with longer lengths. It is easier to trim more than fix too-short bangs.
According to Marjan, common DIY mistakes include making the cut too blunt and not shaping your bangs to suit your face shape and features. If mistakes happen, use point cutting (snip vertically) to soften the edges. For big errors, visiting a stylist can help fix the issue.
Aftercare and Maintenance
Curtain bangs require regular care to stay fresh and stylish. Here’s how to maintain them:
- Trim Regularly: Trim every 4 – 6 weeks to keep the shape. You can even do minor touch-ups at home, but always use proper scissors.
- Styling: Use a round brush and blow dryer to maintain volume and shape. A bit of light styling cream can help hold the look without weighing down the bangs.
- Products: Apply a heat protectant when using hot tools. Hair serums or oils can help prevent split ends.
According to hairstylists, maintaining the correct length is key to keeping curtain bangs flattering and low-maintenance
The closing statement
Now that you know how to cut curtain bangs, you can confidently try this trendy hairstyle at home. With the right tools, careful steps, and attention to detail, achieving the perfect curtain bangs is possible for anyone. Just remember to avoid common mistakes, maintain regular trims, and style them for the best look. Whether you’re new to this style or a pro, cutting curtain bangs is a fun way to update your look. Don’t forget to share your results or ask any questions in the comments!
