How to Style Long, Grown-Out Bangs

Publish date: 2024-05-03

You’ve seen the look on stars like Dakota Johnson and Jennifer Lopez: long, grown-out bangs that effortlessly frame the face and miraculously never go out of place. Just like any other I-just-woke-up-like-this hair or makeup look, styling long bangs actually requires a little more effort than simply rolling out of bed (although that’s exactly the look you’re going for).

Whether you’re a fan of lived-in bangs, in the beginning stages of growing out your fringe, or have simply been putting off getting a trim, there are a few tricks you can use to keep your strands in check. We turned to Fatima Sheikh, stylist at Cutler/Redken SOHO in Manhattan. for a handful of pro-tips on how to maintain longer bangs so you have an edgy style, instead of a major annoyance that’s constantly poking you in the eyes.

1. Show your stylist examples of your desired look

If your longer length is intentional and not a result of neglecting to keep up with regular bang trims, tell your stylist your preference so they can cut them accordingly, “Let your stylist know that you prefer them longer so they can blend them into the layers on the frame of your face to give you that perfect lived-in bang that turns into lovely layers,” says Sheikh.

A foolproof way to achieve the your desired look is by bringing visual examples to your hair appointment. Screenshot any celebrities who have hair that's similar to yours and/or your ideal bangs style so you and your stylist get on the same wavelength.

2. Switch up how you style long bangs

Perhaps the biggest benefit of a long fringe is that unlike thick, full eyebrow-grazing bangs, you have a number of styling options whether you’re in the mood to wear your hair up or down. “You can wear longer bangs to any side or parted down the middle,” suggests Sheikh. “They also look like a really effortless addition to a ponytail when you would rather throw your hair up. Longer bangs are also very easy to blow-dry back and pin out of the way if you’re not feeling it.”

Make the most out of your cut by trying different trending styles that will compliment your long bangs. A few examples: A '70s shag cut, messy ponytail, or claw clip updo.

3. Don't overdo it with styling products

Layering styling products might seem the obvious solution for keeping your bangs under control, but Sheikh recommends not using too many formulas on your fringe due to it being so close to your face.

Her tips for making your bangs stay right where you want them? “It is important to dry your bangs first as we all tend to have pesky cowlicks around our hairlines," Sheikh shares. "When hair is wet, it's easiest to get them to lie how you like. Brush your fringe side to side while blow drying to make sure they have swing, then part how you please."

4. Schedule your bang trims in advance

Even long bangs need to be trimmed sometimes. To maintain their shape and keep the length eye-crazing, Sheikh recommends making a trip to your stylist for a trim every six to eight weeks. If you want to stretch out the time between cuts, she suggests making a slight adjustment to your style by wearing them in a side swoop as they grow as “it’s more versatile and keeps you from getting antsy and self-trimming."

To ensure you never go too long between trims, book your next one as you're leaving the salon. It sounds like an obvious tip, but it makes all the difference.

5. Consider your curls

Although Sheikh says a longer fringe can suit any hair type, she advises that curly girls need to be aware that “less weight means more curl, so err on the side of longer and fuller to make room for the bounce up.”

The Best Hairstyles for Long Bangs

Tousled High Ponytail

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Dakota Johnson's bangs have become as famous as the actress herself. Here, she wears her long bangs parted down the middle with the rest of her stands pulled up into a tousled ponytail. The finished product is an elevated take on your go-to updo.

Classic Curtain Bangs

Curtain bangs are a long style that are popular for a few reasons: they're low-maintenance, easy to grow out if needed, and can be styled in a plethora of ways. Gabrielle Union's curtain fringe gives her sleek lob a retro vibe.

Swoopy Side Bangs

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Halle Berry's cheek-grazing, swoopy side bangs and pixie cut are a nod to Y2K trends and undeniably cool.

Curly Long Bangs & Shag

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Model Alanna Arrington's long and wispy bangs blend seamlessly into her curls thanks to strategically placed shaggy layers.

Messy Updo

It doesn't get any more effortless than twisting your hair up with a claw clip. Just take Jennifer Lopez's messy updo for example. Her cheekbone-grazing bangs add further softness to the style.

Voluminous Long Bangs

Use a round brush to boost overall volume and control the direction of your long bangs up and away from your face. The result will be a flipped-out '70s style with tons of body. Think Suki Waterhouse's go-to look.

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