If you’re bored with your current hairstyle but can’t make such drastic commitments, like bleaching it, you’re probably thinking about having bangs — specifically curtain bangs.
One of today’s most popular hair trends, curtain bangs are often worn with a slight wave or bend and a middle part. They are long, wispy bangs that are great for people who want to have bangs but can’t commit to short and full bangs. Compared to other bang styles, curtain bangs are longer and can enhance your best features.
If you want to enhance your hair without committing to something big, head over to your stylist and ask them about curtain bangs. But if you want to DIY your bangs, you can do that too. Here’s how to cut curtain bangs on your own.
How To Cut Curtain Bangs
Start with dry and clean hair if you’re cutting your bangs. Instead of wetting your hair, leave it in its natural shape and texture. Doing so keeps you from ending up with bangs that are shorter than you imagined.
Before you start cutting, gather your supplies:
- Shears
- Hair dryer
- Hair tie
- Rattail comb
- Round brush
Once you have all the supplies, here’s how to cut your curtain bangs.
Step One: Part Your Hair
Your part matters because it dictates where your curtain bangs will open up. If you want curtain bangs that are easier to style, go with your usual part instead of training a new part for your hair. However, if you wear your hair in a deep side part, it’s best to go for a middle part to perfect the curtain bang look.
Step Two: Create a Triangle Section in the Front of Your Face
Once you’ve parted your hair the way you want, ‘draw’ a downward slanting part from the middle part (aka the point where you want your bangs to end) using a rattail comb. As always, be cautious when doing this part. Take a smaller section to avoid ending up with thicker curtain bangs. The wider the triangle, the thicker your curtain bangs.
After finishing this part, you should end up with a small triangular section sitting at your hairline. This is the first part of your curtain bangs. Secure this part of your hair into a ponytail to protect it from any accidental snips.
Step Three: Determine The Length of Your Bangs
Once you’ve separated the triangular section of your hair, pull it down to your face and imagine where you want your bangs to hit. For most people with curtain bangs, the cheekbone is the best point. Once you’ve seen where you want your bangs to hit, you can make the first cut.
Step Four: Use a Guide Piece
How can you make sure that you don’t go too short with your bangs? Use a guide piece, aka the reference point of your bangs. If you don’t cut shorter than the guide piece, you won’t be panicking over your bangs.
Comb your triangle section down and forward, then pull out a piece from the middle. Pull it down to the point where you want your bangs to sit.
Step Five: Cut Your Bangs
Using your guide reference, comb your section down and forward again. Use the guide in the middle and sandwich half of your hair between your middle and index finger. Slide them down to where the guide ends.
Next, slide your fingers so that your fingertips are angled upwards. You don’t need a deep angle to create the tapered effect. If you cut too shallow, you might end up with a full fringe.
Use shears to trip upwards at a slight angle. Make sure that your hair should taper down from the guide piece.
Step Six: Perfect Your Bangs
Once you’ve cut your hair to the right length, comb through them and let them fall naturally. Look for stray pieces. If you see hair locks that are longer than the others, snip them off.
Step Seven: Style Your Curtain Bangs
Now that you’ve cut your curtain bangs to your desired length, it’s time to style them! Curtain bangs need a bit of volume and some shaping to look their best. If you have curly or wavy hair, just wet and dry your curly bangs to perfect your look.
But if you have straight hair or your bangs lay weirdly, get a blow dryer and a round brush to fix them. Wet your new bangs by dipping the comb into the water. Drag the comb through your bangs. Use a round brush to secure your hair.
What Do Curtain Bangs Do to Your Face Shape?
Longer and sweeping bangs can narrow a broad face or help you achieve that diamond face shape you (might have) always wanted. Short curtain bangs pinched at the temples give you more defined cheekbones, giving your face a more contoured look. They can add a little “something” to any plain haircut. If you’ve always wanted to style your hair differently and contour your face, curtain bangs is the way to go.
Who Do Curtain Bangs Look Good On?
One of the best things about curtain bangs is that they can suit any face shape. Sweeping, long or textured curtain bangs refresh anyone’s look (particularly our short-haired friends) without the need to add layers or commit to a full chop.
Are Curtain Bangs High Maintenance?
In terms of maintenance, curtain bangs get a one out of 10 since they’re very low maintenance. The already-textured cut and hair shape grow out easier compared to shorter bangs or blunt fringes (both of which depend on length and precision to keep their styles intact).
While you can get away with leaving your curtain bangs longer before your next haircut, it’s best to keep them in shape every five to six weeks. Since they sit on your face, trimming them can keep them looking perfect. If you want a more accurate trim, visit a stylist who can do the trimming for you. That’s all you need to maintain your bangs.
In terms of cleanliness, greasy curtain bangs only require a quick fix. All you have to do is dip your hair in a basin filled with shampoo for a five-minute dip. This freshens up your bangs minus the conditioner. Dry your bangs with the wrap-dry technique and brush your fringe forward repeatedly to “confuse” the hairline. Some good keratin work can help too.
Curtain bangs are a lifesaver for any person who wants to liven up their hairstyles. The best thing about them is you can’t go wrong with their look. Curtain bangs fit people with short hair, long hair, curly hair, straight hair, etc. They will certainly fit you.
