These Shoulder-Length Cuts With Bangs Work on Almost Every Face Shape

Elle

2 days ago

When you have a bob or a pixie cut, the hairstyle itself becomes an instant conversation starter. Whether it's a laid-back French bob or a choppy pixie crop, these statement looks often require minimal effort for maximum impact.
Meanwhile, medium and shoulder-length hair tends to be easier to maintain overall—though if you're craving a refresh, consider adding bangs to the mix.
Mihaela Vatafu, director stylist at Taylor Taylor London, agrees. 'Bangs can enhance medium-length hair, softening features and offering versatile styling options,' she tells ELLE. Incorporating face-framing pieces can bring out your best features—when done right, they instantly elevate an otherwise classic hairstyle.
First, figure out the best bang length for your lifestyle, face shape, and hair type. If you're unsure about committing or prefer something low-maintenance, try longer curtain bangs à la Daisy Edgar-Jones or Jenna Ortega. They're more forgiving—you can tuck them behind your ears when needed.
A full fringe like Jane Birkin's is eternally chic and of-the-moment, while Rihanna's side-swept bangs prove that a deep part is forever.
Next, Vatafu recommends blow-drying your bangs to add volume and keep them fresh. Use a round brush and a blow-dryer, or try one of the excellent hot brushes available now. Set them with a light mist of hairspray to extend the style for a few days. For second- or third-day hair, re-style with a quick mist of water. To finish, run a tiny amount of texturizing product through your lengths for added edge.
'To maintain the shape, schedule regular trims,' Vatafu advises. That frequency depends on your hair growth, but stylists typically recommend every six to eight weeks. Ideally, get it done professionally—but in a pinch, you can DIY (just consult ELLE's guide to cutting your bangs first).
There are no hard rules, but Vatafu offers some helpful guidelines. 'Light, jagged bangs add movement to fine hair without weighing it down,' she says. On the flip side, 'blunt cuts help create structure on thicker strands.'
For curls and coils, always work with your natural pattern. 'Layered or curtain styles blend beautifully with curly textures,' she suggests.
'Round faces usually suit long, side-swept bangs, which help elongate the face,' Vatafu adds. For square or angular bone structures, she recommends a softer bang to balance stronger jawlines. If your face is oval or heart-shaped, most styles can be tailored to suit you—it's really about what feels most sustainable and comfortable for you.
Laura Harrier styles her wispy, straight fringe with a low-bun for a romantic effect.
Lily Collin's full, straight bangs bring structure to her heart-shaped face.
Channel Rashida Jones's dreamy vibe with loose tendrils and a deep side part.
New to bangs? Try Daisy Edgar-Jones's middle-parted style—it's easy to maintain, and you can always pin them back if you decide to skip the fringe.
Jenna Ortega's shaggy, rock 'n' roll style is surprisingly easy to maintain, thanks to its longer layers.
Ella Purnell's all-white Prada ensemble came with a matching headband, lending a '60s vibe to her look.
On the Miu Miu Spring/Summer 2025 runway, Alexa Chung wore her signature brunette strands in a relaxed half-up 'do, paired with a delicate, wispy fringe.
French style maven and Rouje founder Jeanne Damas is devoted to the understated chic of French-girl hair. A low-key fringe like Damas's blends seamlessly into the rest of your strands—perfect if you're not ready to go all in—while still giving your look that extra something.