Have you ever looked in the mirror and thought, “Something’s missing from this haircut?” Maybe it’s not a new colour or drastic change—you might just need curtain bangs.
Curtain bangs have quietly crept back into the spotlight, and for good reason. They’re flattering on almost every face shape, they soften your features, and they give you that effortless, model-off-duty look without too much commitment. But here’s the thing: styling curtain bangs is not as simple as the before-and-after TikToks make it seem.
As someone who has not only styled them myself but also interviewed hairstylists from London to Los Angeles, I’ve compiled everything you need to know about making curtain bangs work for you—no salon visit required.
What Are Curtain Bangs—and Why Are They Trending?
Curtain bangs are face-framing layers, usually parted down the middle (like—you guessed it—curtains), and gently taper outwards. Think Brigitte Bardot in the ’60s or Alexa Chung today.
But what makes them so popular again?
- Versatility: They blend into your haircut easily, whether you’ve got long layers or a lob.
- Low-commitment: Unlike blunt bangs, these grow out beautifully.
- Face-framing magic: They highlight cheekbones, soften a wide forehead, and elongate round faces.
In a recent interview with British hair stylist Eliza Cartwright, she said, “Curtain bangs are universally flattering. Whether you’re wearing a messy bun or straight locks, they instantly make your hairstyle look more put together.”
Step-by-Step Guide to Styling Curtain Bangs (with Real-Life Tips)
Step 1: Start With Damp, Not Wet Hair
You’ll want your curtain bangs slightly damp, not dripping. This gives you better control and helps the shape set faster.
Insider tip: If you let them dry naturally, they’ll likely curl in odd directions—trust me, I’ve made that mistake on a humid day in Brighton.
Step 2: Apply a Lightweight Mousse or Volumising Spray
To keep them from falling flat, use a product like the L’Oréal Volume Inject Mousse or Bumble and Bumble Thickening Spray.
“The key to styling bangs is product control,” says Holly Morris, senior stylist at London’s Josh Wood Atelier. “You need just enough hold without stiffness.”
Step 3: Blow Dry Using a Round Brush
This is the most crucial part.
- Place a medium round brush under your bangs.
- Blow dry by rolling them away from your face.
- Direct airflow from above to avoid frizz.
Pro hack: Use a concentrator nozzle on your dryer to avoid flyaways.
Step 4: Split & Set
Once you’ve curved them outwards, split them gently in the middle. Let them fall naturally, then finish off with a cool shot from your dryer to lock in the shape.
Step 5: Add Texture (Optional)
For a lived-in look, use a tiny bit of dry shampoo or texture spray at the roots.
I’ve found Batiste Texturising Spray to be a lifesaver on days when I want that perfectly imperfect French-girl vibe.
Styling Curtain Bangs Based on Hair Type
For Straight Hair
Straight hair holds the shape best—but also goes limp quickest.
Tips:
- Use a volumising product.
- Avoid heavy oils.
- Dry shampoo adds texture without grease.
For Wavy Hair
You’ve got the best of both worlds. Embrace the wave!
Tips:
- Use a diffuser to dry them with your natural wave.
- Twist them around your finger while damp for definition.
For Curly Hair
Yes, curly girls can rock curtain bangs!
Tips:
- Get them cut by someone experienced in curly cuts (DevaCurl-trained, ideally).
- Use a curl cream and scrunch upward.
- Let them air dry or diffuse with care.
“Curly curtain bangs add so much character,” says American curl specialist Tamika Harris. “They frame the face beautifully and make curls pop.”
Real-World Example: My 30-Day Curtain Bangs Journey
When I first got my curtain bangs, I had serious regrets the next day. They looked flat, limp, and stuck to my forehead.
But I committed to a 30-day styling experiment. Here’s what I learned:
- Day 3: Figured out the right brush size made a massive difference.
- Day 7: Realised that skipping mousse meant an afternoon flop.
- Day 15: Switched to air-drying and regretted it (frizz city).
- Day 30: Nailed it. Blow dry, part, texture spray—out the door in 5 minutes.
It’s not about having perfect tools—it’s about understanding your hair.
Mistakes to Avoid When Styling Curtain Bangs
- Using too much product (turns greasy fast)
- Skipping heat protection (hello, breakage)
- Air-drying and expecting magic (it won’t happen)
- Not parting them correctly (middle or slight off-centre works best)
FAQs
1. How do I keep curtain bangs from separating too much?
Use a setting spray and blow dry them inward to keep them cohesive.
2. How often should I trim curtain bangs?
Every 4–6 weeks. They grow out nicely but still need a tidy-up.
3. Can I style curtain bangs without heat?
Yes—but the results vary. Try using Velcro rollers or pinning them in place while drying.
4. Do curtain bangs work with glasses?
Absolutely. Just make sure they’re not too long or they’ll clash with your frames.
5. Are curtain bangs good for oily skin?
Yes, but dry shampoo will be your best friend.
Final Thoughts: Should You Get Curtain Bangs?
If you’re craving a change but not ready to dive into a pixie cut or heavy fringe, curtain bangs are a flattering, low-risk option. Styling them takes a bit of trial and error, but once you’ve found your rhythm, they become second nature.
Remember, it’s not about copying a celebrity look—it’s about finding what suits you and making it work.
Got curtain bangs already? I’d love to hear how you style them. Leave your tips, fails, or favourite products in the comments below!
Sources:
- British Journal of Dermatology: Hair texture and styling impacts
- Interview with Eliza Cartwright, stylist at The Hair Boutique, London
- Josh Wood Atelier, London
- Curl Care Conversations Podcast by Tamika Harris
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