Forget High-Maintenance Fringes—This Easy Style Will Be Everywhere This Year

Fringe curious? Listen up. There’s no doubt that getting a fringe cut in is risky business—but it's also a great way to switch things up when you don't want to dye your hair or remove length. Whereas in recent years, blunt, full fringes were all we could talk about, now's the time to adopt an easier, lower-maintenance fringe approach for 2023.

It's actually a great time to be considering a fringe, because there’s a new fringe on the block that allows you to reap the face-framing benefits of a classic fringe without the upkeep. Taking inspiration from the iconic Bardot fringe, and in line with the current trend for retro '70s waves, the curtain fringe is set to be big news. Cut with shape so that it curves and frames the face, the curtain fringe is easily parted to create a chic, easy look, even as it grows out. And the best bit is it can be tweaked for every hair type and style, and suits every face shape. Whether you want to embrace long, tousled grow-out or voluminous, bouncy bangs, keep scrolling for 20 curtain fringe styles (plus the best styling products for the job) that will provide all of the 2023 hair inspo you need.

See Curtain Fringe Inspo:

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(Image credit: @JULIESFI)

Keep lengths long and healthy by keeping shaping and layering exclusive to the fringe. We can't get enough of this ’70s style.

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(Image credit: @KATHERINE_ORMEROD)

If you prefer a more tousled style, opt for a thick fringe that wings ever so slightly out in the middle. 

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(Image credit: @SABOTAJ)

Curling a curtain fringe away from the face like this gives a super-bouncy, blown-out finish. 

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(Image credit: @MAGGIE_MCCORMACK)

If you prefer to wear your hair up, take style notes from this plaited 'do, keeping the fringe out and sleek. 

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(Image credit: @ANDREASTEEN)

Not sold on a fringe just yet? Ease your way into it by winging out short, face-framing layers first.

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(Image credit: @SAMANTHEA)

We couldn't be more obsessed with Samantha's curly curtain fringe if we tried. Keep curls soft and defined with a curl cream.

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(Image credit: @BABBA)

A blunt curtain fringe is the perfect way to take weight out of thicker styles, keeping things soft and low-maintenance at the same time.

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(Image credit: @CHANELMCKINSIE)

Opt for a feathered, parted fringe to give your style a no-fuss, carefree edge. 

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(Image credit: @HELLOVALENTINE)

Take style notes from Brigitte Bardot and opt for a thick, super-glam style. Use a hot brush or hair straighteners to create the perfect winged finish.

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(Image credit: @JOANSMALLS)

Okay, Joan Smalls wins. This feathered, voluminous fringe is basically all of our 2023 hair dreams wrapped up in one. 

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(Image credit: @MEXICANBUTJAPANESE)

Keep things simple and ask your stylist for fine bangs on either side that perfectly frame your face.

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(Image credit: @CHRISAPPLETON1)

Jennifer Lopez's balayaged curtain fringe is all of the evidence we need to give it a go ourselves. 

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(Image credit: @COUTUREKULTEN)

For a shagged, retro vibe, embrace short, choppy layers. 

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(Image credit: @ADA_OGUNTODU)

Style your curtain bangs into loose, face-framing waves for Hollywood glam results.

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(Image credit: @HARRIETSTEWART)

If your hair is naturally fine and straight, this laid-back look proves a curtain fringe could be just what you need to add some shape.

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(Image credit: @JEANNINE.ROXAS)

Worried about having to style your hair every morning? Fear not, for the curtain fringe looks just as great thrown up into a clip as it does blow-dried.

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(Image credit: @JAMEELAJAMILOFFICIAL)

If you're a die-hard full-fringe kind of gal, take notes from Jameela Jamil and part it ever so slightly in the middle if it starts getting too long. 

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(Image credit: @EMMAMACKEY)

Emma Mackey showcases the perfect way to style a blunt, glossy curtain fringe. 

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(Image credit: @FRASSYAUDREY)

Chuck lengths up into a messy bun and leave your fringe down for the ultimate zero-effort but chic look.

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(Image credit: @SAASHA_BURNS)

Don't go thinking that a curtain fringe will limit your styling possibilities. This half-up, half-down style proves it's one of the most versatile hair trends out there.

Shop Fringe Styling Products:

This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.  

Next Up: 24 Fringes That Suit Everyone, According to Hair Experts

Freelance Beauty Editor

Shannon Lawlor is a renowned beauty journalist and has contributed to Who What Wear’s beauty content since 2020. As a leading beauty editor, expert and brand consultant, she has over eight years of experience working for some of the industry’s most esteemed titles, including Who What Wear (of course), Glamour UK, Stylist, Refinery29 and Fabulous.

Having also worked behind the scenes with some of the industry’s biggest brands and retailers, Shannon has a unique insight into what people really want from their beauty routines. Understanding that beauty lovers seek honest, open and responsible advice, she has it made her mission to demystify the intimidating world of beauty, taking a no-frills approach to the most relatable topics.

While Shannon is the first to admit she doesn’t hold the answer to every beauty question out there, she is dedicated to sharing her expert insights in a bid to help. As a self-proclaimed lazy girl, Shannon has an affinity for easy-to-use, foolproof beauty products and has made it her mission to scope out the best of the best.

When she’s not working, Shannon is likely soaking in the bath or giving no-holds-barred beauty reviews on Instagram from her bathroom floor.