Side Bangs: The Face-Framing Fringe Everyone Wants
Side bangs are the fringe for people who want a change without a full commitment. Longer, softer and swept across the forehead, they frame the face, blend into your layers and grow out without an awkward in-between stage. Here is what our stylists at Gusto want you to know before you book.
What are side bangs?
Side bangs, also called a side swept fringe, are a longer fringe that is parted off-centre and swept to one side. Instead of a blunt line across the forehead, the hair slopes diagonally from the parting down towards the cheekbone, then melts into the rest of your hair.
That slope is what makes them so wearable. There is no hard edge to maintain, and the fringe can be tucked behind the ear on days when you want it out of the way.
Who suits side bangs?
Most face shapes can carry a side fringe, which is why it is one of the most requested cuts in the salon. The diagonal line softens a strong jaw or forehead, adds width to a narrower face, and draws attention to the eyes and cheekbones. If you are weighing up fringes in general, our guides to whether you should get a fringe and fringes for oval faces will help you decide.
Hair texture matters more than face shape. Straight and wavy hair sit beautifully swept to the side. Very fine hair works well if the fringe is kept light, and curly hair can wear a side fringe too, as long as it is cut with the curl pattern in mind.
Side bangs vs curtain bangs
The two are often confused. Curtain bangs part in the middle and fall evenly on both sides of the face, like drawn curtains. Side bangs part off-centre and sweep in one direction, so they feel a little more polished and directional. If you love the idea of a middle parting, read our curtain bangs guide. If you want something with a softer, vintage feel, take a look at Bardot bangs.
How to style side bangs
Styling takes minutes. Blow dry the fringe first, while the rest of your hair is still damp, so it does not pick up the wrong direction. Use a small round brush and dry it away from your face, then sweep it to the side. A touch of light styling spray holds it without stiffness.
On second day hair, a little dry shampoo at the roots of the fringe stops it looking greasy. If your fringe tends to go flat or oily quickly, wash it separately in the sink rather than the whole head.
Keeping side bangs looking good
The beauty of a side fringe is that it grows out gracefully. Because it is long and swept, you can let it blend into your layers over a few weeks instead of rushing to fix it. A quick trim every few weeks keeps the shape sharp, and if you are growing it out, ask for the length to be refined into your long layers so the transition is seamless.
Ready for a fringe? Talk to your stylist about the length, parting and shape that suits your hair before anything is cut. We will make sure it works with how you actually style your hair.
