The 5 questions you need to ask yourself before getting a fringe
If there's one thing a good fringe haircut can do, it's to convince everyone in the immediate vicinity that they should consider cutting bangs, too. Full, wispy, curtain or straight, the sheer variety of fringe haircuts out there makes them instantly appealing. Will you skew 70s, doubling up on full, feathered curtain bangs a la Jane Birkin and, more recently, Matilda Djerf? Or, opt for something piece-ier like face-framing tendrils and wispy pieces?
Before you head to the salon (or the kitchen drawer), there are some things to think about. Like, if you really want to go full fringe straight out the gate. Or, if there's a first-time fringe to try instead.
Is a fringe the same thing as bangs?
Always good to start with the basics. And, yes! A fringe and bangs are the same thing, they're just called different things depending on which side of the pond you're on. In New York, you'd be looking at getting bangs cut. In London, a fringe.
5 questions to ask yourself before cutting a fringe
Jason Crozier, a stylist at Neville Hair and Beauty, says there are five questions to ponder before you're ready for a fringe.
Can I commit to the maintenance? "Fringes need regular trims to stay looking fresh," Crozier says. "Every four to six weeks, for most people. Is that something you're willing to do?"
What's my hair type? "If you have curly or very fine hair, managing a fringe might be more challenging," he cautions. While products and styling techniques can help, there might be more legwork involved with keeping it looking the way you want each day.
How busy are my mornings? "Styling a fringe takes a bit of time each day, so it's crucial to think about if you have the few extra minutes in the morning to bother with it."
What's my face shape? "Certain fringe styles complement certain face shapes," advises Crozier. "Knowing yours can help decide what will look best." Fortunately, there are now several intuitive tools for seeing what a fringe will look like before you cut it. There are virtual try-on apps, clip-in fringes and a good old-fashioned chat with your hairstylist. All will help give you a good idea.
Do I have the right tools? Crozier says a good blow dryer, round brush and efficacious styling products are important tools to keep in your good fringe arsenal. A texture mist or pomade, styling gel (the Briogeo Curl Charisma Rice Amino and Quinoa Frizz Control Gel, £21, is a godsend) and dry shampoo will help even the most last-minute of fringe-tastrophes.
What's the best fringe to get if you've never had one before?
Curtain bangs, says Sian Wood, director at Taylor Taylor London. "Curtain bangs are slightly less of a commitment than something like a full fringe, as they’re longer and easier to grow out if you’re not sure," Wood recommends. "They also don’t require too much maintenance as they still look good grown-out and they suit most face shapes, so can be a good test to see if you like them.
"If you decide you want to go for a shorter style, they’re also able to be adapted into a different type of fringe quite easily."
How long will it take to grow out my fringe?
"Hair generally grows about 0.5 inches (1.25 cm) per month, so if you want a fringe that hits your brows to grow to your chin, it can take about 6 months," says Crozier.
28 fringe haircuts to inspire your next style
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