Curtain bangs, characterized by their romantic and feathery appearance, have emerged as a popular alternative to traditional full fringes, experiencing a notable resurgence last year as celebrities embraced the “femme fatale” hairstyle. However, one need not have cascading waves to adopt this trend; the combination of curtain bangs with a short haircut can yield an ideal blend of feminine and tomboyish aesthetics. Luke Hersheson, a renowned hairstylist and CEO of Hershesons, shares his expert styling recommendations with Vogue, alongside celebrity hairstylist Kim Kimble, who provides her insights on the optimal methods for styling curtain bangs with short, curly, and textured hair.
Hersheson emphasizes, “The bob era is not going anywhere.” Whether styled in a French, grungy, or flicked-out manner, the bob has become a defining hairstyle of the 2020s. He describes curtain bangs as “any kind of face-framing cut,” while Kimble concurs, noting that “curtain bangs are versatile enough to complement any hair type or style,” particularly when paired with a soft bob or a long pixie cut.
Guidelines for Styling Curtain Bangs with Short Hair
The foundation of successful styling lies in investing in a quality haircut. Hersheson asserts, “If the haircut is not quite right, it can complicate your styling journey.” He advises that an ideal curtain bang should not appear overly clumpy or blocky and should be capable of maintaining its shape with minimal effort. To quickly shape your bangs, he suggests dampening them and combing them forward in front of your face, which should allow for easy restoration of their form, regardless of any cowlicks. He further advises against using a comb to create a parting; instead, one should use their fingers and tuck the hair behind the ears, utilizing the ears as a natural roller to achieve a flattering shape around the cheekbones. Dent-free hair clips can be employed to secure the style in place.
For a more dramatic look reminiscent of Sabrina Carpenter, one may rough dry the hair while it is wet to eliminate any unwanted kinks. Subsequently, gently brush out the bangs with a round brush. Hersheson cautions, “Avoid applying excessive tension while brushing, as this may cause the hair to spring forward.” He recommends rolling the brush through the hair with a moderate amount of heat, which can also be accomplished with a flat iron, provided one is gentle and follows the natural curvature of the face, continuing to part the hair with their fingers.
Techniques for Textured Hair
Kimble advises that when working with curly hair, it is essential to embrace the natural curl pattern. “I typically cut curtain bangs while the hair is dry to observe how the curls fall—bangs should always be slightly longer to accommodate for shrinkage,” she explains. Additionally, she suggests incorporating a few light layers around the face to ensure a seamless blend with the rest of the curly hair.
Protective styles, such as clip-ins and braids, are excellent options for altering one’s look while safeguarding natural hair, according to Kimble. She recommends the Bombshell Bun & Bangs hairpiece, which offers a low-maintenance, all-in-one style featuring tight corkscrew curls that provide ample natural texture without the need for extensive upkeep. To preserve the hairstyle overnight, Kimble advises utilizing a satin or silk pillowcase, scarf, or bonnet to maintain the style and minimize frizz.
