Getting a fringe is a rite of passage in so many people’s lives, whether it’s done on a whim or after months of decision-making. Choosing your style is a big part of that journey, so a little bit of research never hurts. One of the benefits of a fringe is how well they frame your face, so it’s especially helpful to know what shape your face is. So, first things first: Identify your face shape (it’s easier than it sounds, promise).
Now you’re ready for step two: choosing your look. We turned to Moroccanoil Celebrity Hairstylist Bryce Scarlett—a.k.a. the man Gigi Hadid, Margot Robbie, Brie Larson and pretty much every other A-lister trusts with their gorgeous hair—to help break down which fringe is best for each shape. Keep scrolling to find your next hairstyle, along with celeb inspiration to screenshot and show your hairstylist. (Oh, and it goes without saying: It's best to go to a trained professional if you're thinking of a fringe—or any big hair change—to avoid catastrophe.)
Face Shape: Round
"Full, choppy, piecey fringes that extend from lash-length to jawbone-length are perfect for round faces,” says Scarlett. Elizabeth Olsen demonstrates the look flawlessly, and Scarlett also cites Goldie Hawn’s iconic long bangs as a style reference.
Face Shape: Oval
As expert fringe-wearer Dakota Johnson has proven time and time again, oval-shaped faces can wear pretty much any style. Still, Scarlett has a favourite, explaining that "Longer, soft, side-swept fringes frame an oval-shaped face.”
Face Shape: Heart
"A straight across, blunt-style is best for a heart-shaped face,” recommends Scarlett. Don’t be afraid to go bold—a strong chin and cheekbones balances the hairstyle, as Rashida Jones demonstrates.
Face Shape: Square
Embrace the curtains. "A centre-parted, softly feathered ‘Bardot’ bang is most suitable for square-shaped faces,” explains Scarlett. Alexa Chung’s now-iconic soft fringe should be at the top of your Pinterest board.
If You Have a Small Forehead
Yes, you can get a fringe! "For smaller foreheads, I recommend that the bangs start further back on the hairline to give the illusion of a larger forehead,” explains Scarlett. Hannah Simone's style is a perfect example; her blunt cut is set slightly past her hairline to allow for a little extra length.
A Fringe's Best Friends
Dry Shampoo
"Be sure to stock up on dry shampoo," recommends Scarlett. "Fringes tend to get greasy quickly from things like touching your forehead."
Hair Dryer
Hair dryers are one of the world's great inventions, but they can be unwieldy. This smaller-than-average dryer makes it easier to target fringes.
You'll want lots of pins around for those times you need it out of your face (or if you decide to grow it out).
Hairspray
Keeping a fringe in place sometimes requires a little patience—and hairspray. This one has plenty of hold and shine without being sticky or crunchy.
More Hair Products We Love
Up next, 39 celebs and fashion girls who are making me want to chop off all my hair.
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