What Are Curtain Bangs and How Can You Style Them?

Curious about bangs but not ready to dive into a full commitment? Curtain bangs are the latest twist on fringe that’s capturing everyone’s attention, from salon regulars to celebrities like Kaley Cuoco and Jennifer Lopez. This adaptable style flatters nearly all face shapes and offers more flexibility than traditional bangs. Still unsure about taking the plunge? We’ve gathered expert insights to help guide your decision-making.

What Exactly Are Curtain Bangs?

Let’s answer the big question: why are they called curtain bangs? It’s quite simple: Imagine two curtains gently pulled back on either side of a window or stage. Unlike classic fringe bangs that sit straight across your forehead and end at the brow, curtain bangs part in the middle, with the shortest strands at the center and longer pieces flowing outwards to frame the face, explains stylist John Mouzakis, co-owner of Chicago’s 3rd Coast Salon.

Which Face Shapes Are Ideal for Curtain Bangs?

Curtain bangs work beautifully for all face shapes and hair types. They are universally flattering, offering a slimming effect while enhancing the eye area and framing the cheekbones, says celebrity hairstylist David Lopez, creative director of Glam Seamless Hair Extensions.

If you often style your hair in updos, like ponytails or top knots, curtain bangs add a touch of elegance and flair to these otherwise simple styles, Lopez adds. Both stylists we consulted agree that curtain bangs suit almost every hair type, with the exception of very kinky textures.

You Can Easily Grow Out or Pin Back Curtain Bangs.

Another advantage of curtain bangs? They're much less of a commitment than traditional bangs. Because of their length, they can easily be pinned back if you want your hair off your face. As they grow, they seamlessly blend into the rest of your hairstyle, avoiding the dreaded 'growing out' phase, explains Mouzakis.

How to Cut Curtain Bangs

Curtain bangs are a shorter version of a face-framing cut. Unlike traditional bangs that cover the whole forehead, this style is designed to be styled away from the face and out of the eyes. 'Since they are styled away, you can go longer between trims compared to classic fringe. Typically, curtain bangs fall just at the cheekbones,' says Sarah Potempa, celebrity hairstylist and co-founder of The Beachwaver Co.

Celebrity hairstylist and PURA D’OR partner Clyde Haygood suggests pairing curtain bangs with styles like the wolf cut, shag, or layered bob. He advises working closely with your stylist to create a look that complements your face shape, features, and hair type.

How to Maintain Curtain Bangs

Curtain bangs require regular trims for maintenance. Haygood recommends visiting your stylist every two to four weeks, depending on hair growth, to keep them fresh and in shape.

The only drawback of curtain bangs is the styling effort involved. 'You’ll need to put in a bit more work with curtain bangs, but once you get the hang of it, your bangs will fall into place,' says Laura Polko, celebrity hairstylist. She recommends using a bit of sea salt spray before blow-drying to add texture and make styling easier.

How Do You Style Curtain Bangs?

"The key to avoiding an outdated '80s look is not using a round brush too early," warns Jamine Rae, professional hairstylist and owner of Jamine Rae Hair Co. "This can create that unwanted bubble effect. Modern curtain bangs should lie flatter against the head, with a soft, flowing movement, rather than a bouncy one."

Here’s how to style your new bangs at home:

1. Start by blow-drying your bangs first, before the rest of your hair, directing them from side to side as they dry to create a soft, flowy part, says Lopez. (Using the concentrator nozzle on your blow-dryer can make this easier.)
2. Use creaseless clips to set the shape. "Pinch the bangs at the hairline, secure with a clip, then gently swoop each side to form a 'C' shape and clip the ends."
3. Let the bangs set for a few minutes before removing the clips.

If you prefer to go a day (or more) without washing your hair, simply dampen and re-style your bangs, suggests Mouzakis. It’s a quick trick that’ll refresh your whole look while saving you time—what could be better than that?

Ready to make the cut? Both Mouzakis and Lopez recommend bringing a variety of reference photos to your stylist, showing examples of curtain bangs you love and those you don’t. "Your stylist may need to modify the length or thickness based on your hair's density, but having a clear visual guide of your desired style will be incredibly helpful," says Lopez.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Should you add layers with curtain bangs?

  There isn't a one-size-fits-all rule when it comes to adding layers with curtain bangs. "To pull off curtain bangs, you don't necessarily need layers. The goal of curtain bangs is to slim the face and add something fresh to your look. However, adding layers will give your hair extra texture," explains Potempa. While curtain bangs can shine on their own, Haygood suggests that a layered haircut can smoothly blend with the bangs for a seamless look.

• What’s the difference between curtain bangs, drape bangs, and window bangs?
  • Curtain Bangs: Curtain bangs offer a softer, more relaxed version of traditional forehead bangs. These bangs are softer and more fluid compared to straight-across bangs. "They can be cut in various styles—shaggy, chunky, or soft—to match your hair type and blend with your overall haircut while highlighting your features," explains Haygood.
  • Drape Bangs: If you’re hesitant about full curtain bangs, try drape bangs. This style is longer than curtain bangs, beginning at the cheekbones and tapering down to the chin. "They provide softness and movement around the face, adding dimension to longer hairstyles," says Haygood.
  • Window Bangs: For those who crave a bold fringe, window bangs are the perfect choice. "Window bangs feature classic fringe on the forehead, surrounded by longer pieces that act as 'curtains' framing the bangs," explains Potempa.