There are lots of reasons to love bangs. From eye-grazing to curtain, style trends take inspiration from so many places and people. The letterbox bang is one style we’re coveting right now: fresh and cute. Editor Trudi Brewer shares inspiration and tips from a top stylist on how to wear this gorgeous winter hair look.
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Hair stylist Kelly Manu, owner of UNA Salon in Auckland.
Bang trends are as prevalent as new season colour hues. Few hairstyles are as timeless, versatile and now as a fringe. Every decade has had a statement style from the face-framing ‘50s Audrey fringe to ’70s curtain bangs, voluminous ‘80s fringes, wispy ’90s fringes, and the long side sweep from the 00s. The good news is that there is plenty of inspiration on wearing a fringe to suit your face shape, making it ideal for almost every hair type. The latest look, dubbed the letterbox bang, is modelled off the slot in your mailbox; it blends a simple boxed shape with feathering to create an edgy yet polished look.
If you are toying with getting bangs this winter, we have enlisted the help of award-winning stylist Kelly Manu (who also sports beautiful bangs) on how to wear this new look and why this should be pinned on your style mood board immediately.
First up, who can wear a fringe? Is it all about the face shape or hair type?
According to Kelly Manu, top stylist and owner of UNA Salon in Auckland, almost anyone can wear a fringe. “It comes down to how it’s cut to suit the individual. Face shape plays a part - for example, curtain fringes can soften a rounder face, while a blunt fringe can add structure to longer or more angular face shapes. Hair type is also important - finer hair might suit something lighter and wispy, while thicker hair can handle bolder shapes with more texture. It’s all about tailoring it to the individual.”
What are letterbox bangs?
The latest look sweeping our social feeds is the Letterbox bang. It helps celebrities like Dakota Johnson, Lady Gaga, Alison Brie, and AJ Odudu, who rock this look, each with a different texture and face shape. “Letterbox bangs are a chic and edgy take on the classic fringe. They’re usually point-cut along a horizontal line that frames the eyes and brows, much like the shape of a letterbox. They’re not too heavy, allowing a bit of the forehead to peek through, and they’re usually styled piecey for that cool, lived-in finish. Think of them as a modern nod to the style icon Jane Birkin, model and actress, also the inspiration behind the timeless Birkin bag,” says Manu.
Who can wear letterbox bangs?
While Manu admits fringes suit anyone, this style does require confidence. “This look suits those who love a bold, fashion-forward look. Because of the precision of the shape, this fringe style works best on straighter hair types or hair that can be smoothed out easily. Face-wise, they’re especially striking on oval and heart-shaped faces, but with the right styling, they can be adapted to suit a range of features. Ensuring enough density in the fringe section to create that sharpness is important for very fine hair - otherwise, it can look a little sparse.”
How do you style a Letterbox Fringe?
Like most hair looks, maintaining your style takes DIY effort. Manu says, “The ghd Helios Hair Dryer is my go-to for styling. It’s powerful, lightweight and delivers a smooth finish with minimal effort. I recommend using a flat paddle brush, like the ghd All Rounder Paddle Brush, rather than a round one. Round brushes can lift the fringe and create too much bounce; they’re better for the Sabrina Carpenter fringe or curtain bangs. The trick is to blow-dry side to side, with the airflow coming downwards to keep the fringe flat and soft.”
How about products? How do you keep this fringe look glossy and smooth?
Regarding products, Manu’s go-tos offer heat protection and shine. “To help with hold, heat protection, and memory, I love L’Oréal Professionnel Tecni.Art Flex PLI Spray. It gives grip without stiffness and makes styling a breeze. A light mist of L’Oréal Professionnel Tecni.Art Morning After Dust, on clean bangs, is also a great hack to pre-empt oiliness and keep the fringe looking airy, fresh, and piecey all day.”
If you’re contemplating a fringe, pin this look on your style mood board now.