If you’ve ever decided you want to get a haircut with bangs, only to be disappointed with the results once you follow through, you’re not alone. It’s true that bangs can be tricky and typically require quite a bit of upkeep (read: wrestling them into submission with a hair dryer every morning). Curtain bangs, on the other hand, are a different story — think of them as the trendier, more effortless version of blunt bangs.
But what exactly are curtain bangs? Celebrity hairstylist Michelle Cleveland says that the hallmark of curtain bangs is when the fringe is cut shorter on the inside, and gets longer as the bangs get further away from your face. “Think of a curtain draping a window,” she says. These bangs frame your face on both sides.
Curtain bangs are one of the most versatile types of bangs that you can try. “They can look good on everyone depending on your style,” promises Cleveland. “The longer the bangs, the more narrow your face will look … while shorter bangs can define your cheekbones.” (Something to keep in mind if you’re attempting to cut your own bangs!)