Curtain bangs are one of the most requested cuts in my chair because they instantly make hair look softer, cooler, and more intentional without feeling like “heavy bangs.”
They blend that ‘70s, center-part fringe with a modern, low‑maintenance vibe that works on so many lengths, textures, and face shapes.
When I cut curtain bangs, I always keep the center a bit shorter and let the sides sweep away to hug the cheekbones, just like a pair of soft, draped curtains framing your face.
Why You’ll Love Curtain Bangs
- They add instant shape and movement to almost any haircut without committing to full blunt bangs.
- They help balance wider or taller foreheads and draw attention to your eyes and cheekbones.
- They grow out beautifully, so even if you change your mind, the transition is usually painless and flattering.
Who Curtain Bangs Work Best For
Curtain bangs are incredibly flexible, but there are a few patterns I see over and over in the salon.
- Face shapes: They’re especially flattering on round, oval, and heart‑shaped faces, and can soften angles on square face shapes when cut with a bit of movement.
- Hair types: Straight, wavy, curly, and coily textures can all wear curtain bangs with the right length and density.
- Lifestyle: If you like styling for 5–10 minutes and don’t mind a quick round‑brush moment or a pass of a curling iron, you’ll live in these.
My Go‑To Tools & Products
For everyday styling, I reach for:
- A medium round brush for volume and bend in the fringe.
- A 1–1.25‑inch curling iron or wand for soft waves and face‑framing bends.
- Lightweight mousse or volumizing spray at the roots so bangs don’t fall flat.
- A soft texturizing spray or cream to keep everything airy and piecey, not stiff.
Meet The Expert
In the salon, I cut curtain bangs slightly shorter through the center and longer toward the temples so they naturally open up around the face when you part your hair in the middle.
This shape subtly pushes fullness toward the sides of the forehead, which can make that area look thicker while visually shrinking taller or wider foreheads.
If you have cowlicks at your hairline, I always blow‑dry the bangs first, brushing them side‑to‑side to train them into place before touching the rest of the hair.
#1. Textured Curtain Bangs with Beach Waves
This is my go‑to “soft beachy energy” look: loose waves through the mid‑lengths with textured curtain bangs tying everything together.
It’s ideal if you love an undone, coastal vibe and want your bangs to feel light, not heavy or blunt.
Rough‑dry your hair, add a few bends with a 1–1.25‑inch iron, then blow‑dry the bangs with a round brush so they flick away from your face.
#2. Curtain Fringe on Platinum Blonde
On platinum blondes, curtain bangs instantly break up the color and keep the look from feeling too stark or severe.
I love this on anyone who wants a high‑impact, trendy finish but still wants softness around the face.
Ask your stylist for a soft, blended curtain fringe that skims your cheeks so you get movement and framing without sacrificing that icy brightness.
#3. Ombre Curtain Bangs Transitioning from Brunette to Blonde
If you’re wearing brunette‑to‑blonde ombré, adding curtain bangs lets that lightness pop right around your eyes and cheekbones.
The gradual shift from deeper roots to lighter ends feels extra soft when the bangs echo that same transition.
Save this for your next appointment and ask for curtain bangs that start in your natural brunette at the base and melt into blonde through the ends.
#4. Wispy Curtain Bangs for Fine Hair
Fine hair loves a wispy curtain bang because it adds movement without stealing too much density from the rest of your cut.
I keep these very feathered on the ends so they flutter over the forehead instead of clumping together.
Use a lightweight volumizing mousse and blow‑dry with a small round brush, focusing on lift at the roots instead of heavy product on the tips.
#5. Voluminous Curtain Bangs for Short Hair
Short hair plus big, bouncy curtain bangs is such an instant “I woke up styled” trick.
These bangs make the whole cut look fuller because they add height and volume right at the front.
Blow‑dry the fringe up and away from your face with a round brush, then pinch the ends with a tiny dab of texture cream to keep them fluffy, not stiff.
#6. Curtain Bangs Paired with Low Bun
When you want an easy, polished moment, a low bun with soft curtain bangs never fails.
The bun keeps things sleek and practical, while the fringe adds softness and movement around your face.
I like to leave a few extra face‑framing pieces out and quickly bend them with a curling iron so the whole look feels intentionally effortless.
#7. Sleek Curtain Bangs for Asian Hair
On naturally straight, dense hair, sleek curtain bangs give you shape and interest without breaking that glassy finish.
I love cutting these just long enough to graze the cheekbones so they fall perfectly smooth when styled.
Blow‑dry with a round brush for a subtle bend, then run a flat iron through the rest of the hair to keep everything shiny and straight.
#8. Asymmetrical Curtain Bangs
If you crave something more fashion‑forward, asymmetrical curtain bangs add that cool‑girl edge without going full micro‑bang.
The uneven lengths give a modern, directional feel, especially when paired with sleek or slightly tousled styling.
Ask your stylist to keep one side a touch longer and to slice into the ends for piecey texture so it still feels soft and wearable.
#9. Curtain Bangs with a High Ponytail
High ponytail days instantly feel dressier when curtain bangs are framing your face.
This combo is perfect when you want your hair off your neck but still need softness around the eyes and cheekbones.
Gather your hair up high, secure the ponytail, then blow‑dry or curl the bangs so they swoop out and back for that flirty, lifted effect.
#10. Grungy Curtain Bangs with Dark Roots
If you love a moody, grunge aesthetic, curtain bangs with visible dark roots and lighter ends are such a vibe.
The contrast between the roots and the lighter lengths amplifies the textured, messy feel of the fringe.
Work in a matte texturizing spray and scrunch the bangs with your fingers instead of brushing for that lived‑in, rock‑inspired finish.
#11. Curtain Bangs for Thick Wavy Hair
Thick, wavy hair can feel heavy around the front, and curtain bangs are one of my favorite ways to lighten that up without major layers.
The bangs blend right into your natural wave pattern and carve out a soft frame around your face.
Have your stylist remove bulk from the underneath of the fringe so it swings and moves instead of puffing up.
#12. Bob Cut with Layered Curtain Bangs
A bob plus layered curtain bangs is chic, modern, and surprisingly low maintenance.
The bob gives you that clean shape and volume, while the bangs soften the lines and add movement through the front.
Save this look if you love structured haircuts but want your face to feel softly framed rather than sharply outlined.
#13. Side Swept Curtain Bangs
Side‑swept curtain bangs are perfect when you want the look of a curtain fringe but with a little more drama across one side.
They still open up around the cheeks but lean into a fuller, slightly edgier finish.
Blow‑dry the bangs forward first, then push them over to your preferred side so they keep that airy fullness.
#14. Blunt Curtain Bangs for Square Faces
Square faces can absolutely rock bangs, especially when they’re a mix of blunt and curtain shapes.
This version keeps the center more defined while the sides kick out to soften the angles of the jawline and forehead.
Ask your stylist for blunt‑ish length through the center with gently tapered corners so the effect is balanced, not boxy.
#15. Vintage Curtain Bangs
Vintage curtain bangs give pure ‘70s energy in the best way.
They bring that retro, swoopy shape that flatters almost every hair type and instantly adds personality to simple cuts.
Pair them with big, brushed‑out waves or a feathered blowout when you want to lean into the full throwback mood.
#16. Half Updo with Flowing Curtain Bangs
A half updo with flowing curtain bangs is one of my favorite “effortlessly pretty” styles for events or date nights.
It lifts the hair away from your face while still letting the fringe drape softly over your eyes and cheeks.
Curl the mid‑lengths, secure the top half loosely, then style the bangs so they swoop out and blend into those waves.
#17. Curtain Bangs on Natural Coily Hair
Yes, coily hair can absolutely wear curtain bangs—and it looks incredible.
On natural coils, the bangs become a soft cloud of texture that balances your shape without you needing to straighten anything.
Ask for a dry cut so your stylist can see exactly where the curls will fall, and style with your usual curl cream or gel.
#18. Curtain Bangs for the Oval-Shaped Face
If you have an oval face, curtain bangs are almost always a safe, flattering bet.
They enhance your natural symmetry and put subtle focus on your eyes and cheekbones without overwhelming your features.
I usually customize the length to land between the cheekbones and lips so you can push them open or wear them more forward.
#19. Curtain Bangs for Long-Layered Hair
Long layers and curtain bangs are a match made in hair heaven.
The fringe adds dimension around the front and makes the whole cut feel more styled—even on air‑dry days.
Ask your stylist to connect the curtain bangs into the shortest layer around your face so everything flows together.
#20. Choppy Curtain Bangs
Choppy curtain bangs are the bold, textured version of the classic shape.
They’re amazing on fine or flat hair because the piecey texture adds instant edge and movement.
Use a texturizing spray and pinch small sections between your fingers to exaggerate the choppiness.
#21. Undercut with Curtain Bangs
If you love undercuts but want more styling options up top, pairing them with curtain bangs is such a fun twist.
The contrast between the shaved sections and soft fringe gives you a look that’s equal parts edgy and feminine.
Style the bangs with volume and movement, then keep the sides sleek so the shape really pops.
#22. Curtain Bangs for Pixie Cuts
A pixie cut with curtain‑style bangs instantly feels softer and more wearable, especially if you’re nervous about going short.
The bangs bring a gentle, sweeping frame to the face while the back and sides stay cropped and chic.
I like to keep these slightly longer through the front so you can tuck, part, or push them off your face depending on your mood.
#23. Curtain Bangs for Loose Curls
Loose curls plus curtain bangs give that dreamy, romantic texture that looks incredible in photos.
The bangs are cut to match your curl pattern so they blend in instead of fighting against it.
Diffuse with a curl cream, then separate a few pieces around the face to keep the fringe soft and defined.
#24. Curtain Bangs for a Heart-Shaped Face
Heart‑shaped faces look beautiful with curtain bangs because they soften a broader forehead and balance a narrower chin.
The fringe pulls attention toward the center of the face and away from any width at the top.
Ask for cheekbone‑skimming lengths that taper gently into the rest of your haircut so nothing feels heavy.
#25. French Girl Chic Curtain Bangs
French‑girl curtain bangs are all about that perfectly imperfect, off‑duty model vibe.
They combine a little fringe across the front with longer pieces that drape out like curtains on each side.
Rough‑dry, add a spritz of texturizing spray, and lightly tousle with your fingers—no need for anything too polished.
#26. Curtain Bangs for Thick Curly Hair
On thick curly hair, curtain bangs can transform your shape without you having to sacrifice length everywhere else.
Instead of fighting your curls, the bangs simply join the party and create a flattering halo around your face.
Ask for a curl‑by‑curl cut and keep styling products on the lighter side near the fringe so they stay bouncy.
#27. Curtain Bangs with Balayage
Curtain bangs and balayage are a dream pair if you want your face to literally glow.
The hand‑painted highlights can be placed right through the fringe so light catches your features in the prettiest way.
Bring inspiration photos to your color appointment and ask for soft, face‑framing balayage that melts into your curtain bangs.
#28. Retro Glam Curtain Bangs
Retro glam curtain bangs give that full, swingy, bombshell look without feeling costume‑y.
They’re perfect for special events, photo shoots, or anytime you want vintage‑inspired drama.
Blow‑dry with a big round brush and set the bangs in large Velcro rollers while you finish your makeup for maximum lift.
#29. Curtain Bangs on a Short Bob
A short bob with curtain bangs is sleek but never boring.
The bob’s strong shape stays the star, while the fringe adds just enough softness and movement at the front.
If you like clean lines but hate harsh bangs, this is the middle ground I recommend over and over.
#30. Double-Tiered Curtain Bangs
Double‑tiered curtain bangs work beautifully on thicker hair that needs a bit of controlled volume.
The two levels of fringe create airy fullness without feeling bulky.
Ask your stylist for a shorter layer that sits above the main curtain bang so the pieces can stack and move instead of sitting in one heavy sheet.
#31. Platinum Blonde Hair with Curtain Bangs
Platinum blonde can sometimes feel intense, and curtain bangs soften the whole look instantly.
They add dimension and movement around the face so the color feels more ethereal than severe.
Style the bangs with a bit of shine spray to keep them glossy and healthy‑looking next to such a high‑lift shade.
#32. Curtain Bangs with Braids
Braids and curtain bangs together give effortless boho energy, whether you’re heading to a festival or just brunch.
The braids keep everything secure while the bangs frame your face and add softness.
Try two loose braids or a half‑up braided crown and let the curtain bangs fall naturally for that relaxed, beachy feel.
#33. Curtain Bangs for Thick Straight Hair
Thick, straight hair can feel heavy and blocky, and curtain bangs are a subtle way to break that up.
They create the illusion of layers around the face and help your hair move instead of hanging in one solid sheet.
I like to undercut a bit of bulk from beneath the fringe so it lays smooth but still has air and swing.
#34. Wet-Look Curtain Bangs
Wet‑look curtain bangs are bold, edgy, and perfect for nights out or editorial vibes.
They give you a sleek, almost sculpted frame around your face while the rest of your hair can be worn slicked back or textured.
Work a gel or wet‑look cream through damp bangs and comb them into place, leaving defined separation between pieces.
#35. Tousled Curtain Bangs
Tousled curtain bangs are made for days when you want to look like you spent hours on your hair… but didn’t.
They lean into your natural texture and pair beautifully with air‑dried, slightly messy lengths.
Scrunch in a salt spray, diffuse or air‑dry, then gently twist a few pieces of the fringe around your fingers to enhance that windswept effect.
#36. Wavy Curtain Bangs for Square Faces
For square faces, wavy curtain bangs are an easy way to soften angles and add a hint of chic.
The gentle wave pattern smooths out the lines of the forehead and jaw while keeping everything balanced.
Ask for a length that hits around your cheeks and a bit of internal layering so the bangs bend and curve instead of sitting straight.
#37. Pin Straight Curtain Bangs
Pin‑straight curtain bangs are perfect if your style mantra is “simple, clean, and polished.”
They blend into medium or long hair seamlessly and give a quiet, refined finish.
Use a heat protectant, then pass a flat iron through the fringe, curving just slightly at the ends so they don’t look harsh.
#38. Curtain Bangs on an Afro-Cut
Curtain bangs on an afro‑cut are unexpected and incredibly cool.
The fringe is shaped to follow your natural volume while still opening up the center of your face.
Have your stylist shape the bangs freehand so they complement the overall silhouette of your afro instead of cutting them bluntly across.
#39. Spiky Curtain Bangs
Spiky curtain bangs are for the days you want full attitude.
They take the softness of a curtain bang and dial up the texture and punky energy.
Use a strong but flexible styling paste to twist small pieces upward and outward, leaving some separation so the fringe still reads as a curtain shape.
Quick Maintenance & Grow‑Out Tips
Plan on a bang trim every 6–8 weeks to keep your curtain bangs sitting at that perfect cheekbone‑grazing length.
If you’re growing them out, let your stylist keep soft, face‑framing layers through the front so the transition feels intentional, not awkward.
At home, always blow‑dry the bangs first so they set in the right direction before the rest of your hair dries.
What to Ask Your Stylist
Before you commit, show your stylist a few inspiration photos and talk through:
- How much styling time you realistically want to spend most mornings.
- Whether you prefer wispy, soft, or more statement‑making bangs.
- The exact length you’re comfortable with—cheekbone, lip‑length, or longer.
Save your favorite looks from this list, bring them to your appointment, and let your stylist customize the curtain bangs that fit your face, texture, and lifestyle.