How to Style Curtain Bangs: A Hairstylist-Approved Guide

When it comes to hair trends in 2023, ‘70s- nspiration is the name of the game. Case in point? The curtain bang revival. The shaggy, face-framing fringe has seemingly taken over (just check TikTok for proof), but knowing how to style curtain bangs is a must before committing to the look. The good news? The cut, which is shorter on the inside and longer on the outside, requires pretty minimal maintenance as far as bangs are concerned. But don’t just take it from us: listen to the experts. 

We reached out to Franck Izquierdo, the co-founder of IGK Haircare, Ashley Streicher, celebrity stylist and R+Co collective member, and April Kayganich, stylist and resident curl expert, to get the down low on curtain bangs. Here, they’re breaking down how to decide if the haircut is right for you, how to style curtain bangs for maximum volume, and how to handle upkeep. 

Should I get curtain bangs? 

Good news: no hair texture or face shape is excluded from this trend. "I love curtain bangs for textured hair," says Kayganich. "It adds so much cute fringe around the face when the hair is pulled up or worn down."

If you're worried that your face shape isn't cut out for bangs, think again. Curtain bangs "add dimension to round faces, but you can wear the bangs no matter your face shape. You just need to style it differently for each. If you have a strong jawline, it can also help soften it a bit," says Izquierdo.

For the best outcome, Streicher recommends this look for anyone with some length. "I generally recommend a curtain bang with longer hair, as it adds a soft 70's vibe," she says. Of course, hair is meant to be played with, so a shorter bob doesn't mean you can't go for the chop.

How to Style Curtain Bangs

Just like any other cut, curtain bangs do require some styling. "The best thing you can do is invest in the right products first and foremost," says Kayganich. Having the right hot tools, round brushes, and styling creams for your specific hair type is key. 

For textured hair, Kayganich uses a diffuser to give the bangs some intense volume. A little finger-coiling wouldn't go amiss either. If you're going to skip the heat, reach for a hydrating, curl-enhancing gel or mousse.

When it comes to uber-fine hair, Izquierdo says that a texturizer is going to be key. He recommends rough drying the front pieces for a "rock-undone" vibe. "For a more classy look, use a small round brush and dry hair with your brush forward, not under, to open the frame and face," he adds.

The Best Hair Tools for Curtain Bangs

What's the upkeep like for curtain bangs? 

After getting those sought-after face-framing blended layers, maintaining the perfect length does require some attention. "The best way to maintain a good curtain bang is to keep them the perfect, most effortless length, which means trimming them often," says Streicher. Whether that means grabbing a pair of hair scissors yourself or going to the salon for a trim, be prepared for some maintenance.

For curls, a tighter curl pattern means you can wait a little longer before heading back to the salon. "I recommend clients come in anywhere between four to eight weeks for a bang trim to maintain the shape and length," says Kayganich. "Looser curls will need to come in sooner as they will see the length faster than someone with really coily hair."

The good news? Growing out curtain bangs is a piece of cake. "The grow out process is easy!" says Izquierdo. "You can pin or tuck in your bangs behind your ears, or create a side part look. When they do grow out, you can easily blend them into your long layers." 

The Best Texturizing Products for Curtain Bangs

The Best Styling Products for Curtain Bangs