Skip to Content

The Ultimate Guide to Curtain Bangs: How to Style & Maintain

Introduction

Curtain bangs are one of the most flattering and versatile hair trends that have made a major comeback. Inspired by the ‘70s aesthetic, they are soft, face-framing, and work on all hair types and lengths. Whether you have straight, wavy, or curly hair, curtain bangs add a chic, effortless look that’s easy to style.

If you’re considering getting curtain bangs or already have them and want to know how to style and maintain them, this ultimate guide will help you rock them like a pro!


What Are Curtain Bangs?

Curtain bangs are a soft, middle-parted fringe that gradually blends into the rest of your hair, creating a face-framing effect. Unlike blunt bangs, they have a wispy, feathered look, making them low-maintenance and easier to grow out.

Flattering on All Face Shapes – They highlight your cheekbones & soften angular features.
Works with Any Hair Type – Whether straight, wavy, or curly, they add dimension.
Low-Maintenance – They grow out seamlessly compared to blunt bangs.
Versatile Styling – Can be styled sleek, voluminous, or textured for different looks.


How to Ask for Curtain Bangs at the Salon

When asking your stylist for curtain bangs, here’s what to keep in mind:

🔹 Ask for soft, feathered bangs that frame the face – avoid blunt, thick cuts.
🔹 Request a middle part with longer sides that blend into the rest of your hair.
🔹 Bring reference pictures to ensure you get the look you want.
🔹 Consider your hair texture – fine hair benefits from soft layering, while thick hair may need thinning for a light, airy look.

💡 Tip: If you’re unsure, start with longer curtain bangs so they’re easier to grow out if needed!


How to Style Curtain Bangs Like a Pro

1. Blow Dry for a Voluminous Look

🔹 Best for: Straight to wavy hair

Step 1: Start with damp hair and apply a heat protectant.
Step 2: Use a round brush and a blow dryer to curl the bangs away from your face.
Step 3: Let the curls cool, then gently separate for a soft, bouncy effect.
Step 4: Lock in the style with a light-hold hairspray or texturizing spray.

💡 Tip: Use a Velcro roller on each side while your bangs cool for extra volume!


2. Flat Iron for a Sleek Look

🔹 Best for: Straight, fine hair

Step 1: Apply a heat protectant spray to dry hair.
Step 2: Use a flat iron and slightly curve your bangs away from your face.
Step 3: Apply a small amount of lightweight hair oil or serum to prevent frizz.

💡 Tip: Keep the movement natural—avoid over-straightening for a stiff look.


3. Air Dry for a Natural, Effortless Look

🔹 Best for: Wavy and curly hair

Step 1: Towel-dry your hair and apply a curl-enhancing mousse or cream.
Step 2: Finger-comb your bangs and let them fall into place.
Step 3: Scrunch lightly and let air dry or use a diffuser on low heat.

💡 Tip: If your bangs dry oddly, lightly mist them with water and reshape using your hands.


4. Curtain Bangs with a Ponytail or Bun

Step 1: Gather your hair into a ponytail or messy bun.
Step 2: Style the bangs using a round brush and blow dryer for movement.
Step 3: Loosen a few face-framing strands for a soft, effortless look.

💡 Tip: Perfect for lazy hair days while still looking put-together!


How to Maintain Curtain Bangs

1. Trim Every 4-6 Weeks

  • Regular trims keep your bangs at the perfect length and prevent them from looking heavy.
  • You can trim them yourself by twisting the hair and cutting small snips for a feathered effect.

2. Wash & Refresh When Needed 🚿

  • Bangs tend to get oily faster than the rest of your hair.
  • Use dry shampoo to refresh them between washes and add volume.

3. Train Your Bangs to Fall in Place 🌀

  • If your bangs don’t naturally part, use a blow dryer to train them into place.
  • Clip them in the desired direction while drying to set them.

4. Protect from Humidity & Frizz 🌦

  • Use a lightweight anti-frizz serum or smoothing cream before styling.
  • Keep a mini hairbrush or travel-sized dry shampoo in your bag for quick touch-ups.

Best Hair Types & Face Shapes for Curtain Bangs

Round Faces – Softens features and adds structure.
Square Faces – Creates a more balanced look.
Oval Faces – Works effortlessly!
Heart Faces – Highlights cheekbones beautifully.

💡 Tip: If you have thin hair, ask for longer, feathered bangs to add volume. If you have thick or curly hair, opt for a layered approach to prevent bulkiness.


FAQs About Curtain Bangs

1. Are curtain bangs high-maintenance?

No! They are much lower maintenance than traditional blunt bangs because they blend into your hair and grow out beautifully.

2. Can I style curtain bangs without heat?

Yes! Try air drying with mousse or use Velcro rollers overnight for a natural, heat-free style.

3. How do I make curtain bangs look good on oily hair?

  • Apply dry shampoo and fluff them with your fingers.
  • Wash just your bangs in the sink and blow dry them quickly for a refresh.

4. What’s the best way to grow out curtain bangs?

Since they naturally blend into the rest of your hair, growing them out is easy. Just trim them less frequently and let them gradually merge into long layers.


Final Thoughts

Curtain bangs are the ultimate low-maintenance, stylish addition to any haircut. Whether you prefer them sleek, voluminous, or tousled, they can instantly upgrade your look with minimal effort.

Ready to rock curtain bangs? Try these styling tips and enjoy your effortlessly chic new look!

💇‍♀️ Would you get curtain bangs? Let me know in the comments! 😊✨