Thinking About Getting a Fringe?

Thinking about getting a fringe? Whether you're considering curtain bangs, a blunt fringe, or the latest draped trend, it's important to know what works best for your face shape, hair texture, and lifestyle. From maintenance to expert styling tips, here's everything you need to consider before committing to the chop, by Trudi Brewer.

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Consider Your Face Shape

One of the biggest misconceptions about fringes is that they only suit certain people.
In reality, a fringe can be tailored to complement almost any face shape and hairstyle. While the best choice ultimately comes down to personal preference, these guidelines can help:

• Long or narrow faces:
  A blunt fringe that sits just below the brows can help create the illusion of width, making the face appear fuller and more balanced.

• Round or square faces:
  A softly curved, graphic fringe can enhance your bone structure without adding width. At the same time, thicker fringes tend to be more flattering than wispy styles, which can lack definition.

• Heart-shaped faces:
  This face shape is versatile and can carry off almost any fringe style. However, layered, feathered fringes are particularly flattering, with shorter pieces grazing the brow arch and longer sections reaching the outer corners of the eyes.

Styling Is Everything

Before committing to a fringe, think about how much styling you're willing to invest in. Fringes often require regular maintenance, and the amount of effort depends largely on your hair type and texture. Most people will benefit from a few key styling tools, including an anti-frizz product and a good hairdryer with a nozzle attachment. Directing airflow upwards from the roots helps create lift and prevents the fringe from sitting flat. A round brush will be your fringe's best friend, regardless of style.

Lust Luxury Ceramic Brush, $36

NZ brand Lust makes epic styling tools. This size barrel is perfect for fringe grooming, including smoothing and added lift. Designed to retain heat (thanks to the ceramic barrel), it speeds up blow-dry time, prevents static, reduces frizz, and adds polish.

Go Longer

If you're new to fringes and unsure whether you'll love the look, ask your stylist for a "gringe" — a grown-out fringe that blends seamlessly into the rest of your hair. The advantage? If you decide a fringe is not for you, it will grow out quickly, and you will avoid that awkward in-between phase. Also, as it grows, you can experiment with different styles, from a side-swept look to pinning it back with clips or hair accessories.

Curly Hair Can Wear a Fringe Too

The idea that people with curly hair can't have a fringe is a myth. The key is understanding how the fringe will behave in both its natural and styled states before it's cut. This is why many stylists prefer to cut curly fringes dry — it removes much of the guesswork and allows them to work with the hair's natural texture once it's dry.

Hask Curl Care Hair Oil Vial, $6

Smooth wavy hair with the goodness from this lightweight, silicone-free blend of coconut, argan oils, and vitamin E. This travel-friendly vial helps to fight frizz, won’t weigh hair down, and leaves curls shiny and soft to touch.

Don't Let a Cowlick Put You Off

A cowlick doesn't automatically rule out a fringe. While it may require a little extra effort, the right styling techniques can help keep it under control. Mini flat irons are useful for smoothing stubborn bends, while Velcro rollers can help train the fringe to sit more evenly. They may seem old-school, but they're affordable, effective, and ideal for taming flyaways and unruly sections.

Consider Your Forehead Shape

Your face shape isn't the only factor to consider — your forehead plays an important role too. Talk to your hairdresser about where your fringe should begin, particularly if there's limited space between your hairline and eyebrows. A strategically placed fringe can help create the illusion of a longer or shorter forehead, depending on the effect you're after. Taking this into account before the cut can make all the difference to the final result.

Mae Velcro Rollers Jumbo, $7

Heat-free, salon-quality lift and volume while locking in a soft, sweeping shape every fringe needs. Velcro rollers are so convenient, letting you set your fringe while you get dressed or do your makeup.

Trend Watch: Draped Fringes are in

One of the most sought-after fringe styles right now is the draped fringe — a softer, more relaxed evolution of the curtain bang. Unlike traditional face-framing layers, a draped fringe sits independently and falls at around the cheekbones, creating a flattering frame for the face. The result is effortless and versatile, working beautifully whether your hair is worn up or down. A draped fringe adds movement, softness, and volume without feeling heavy, making it perfect for anyone who wants a low-commitment fringe with everyday wearability.
To style: Apply a lightweight volumising mousse to damp hair, then use a round brush while blow-drying to create the signature sweeping, draped effect. Finish with a light mist of hairspray to maintain movement while keeping the style in place.