It’s beauty’s eternal question: to cut bangs, or not to cut bangs? It’s true that a fringe is one of the quickest ways to switch up your signature style, but with so many different versions trending on social media and seen on celebrities, choosing the right kind for you is often the trickiest part of the process. A quick search online yields a shocking number of popular types of bangs to choose from, but whether you wear your hair straight, curly, extra-long, or close-cropped, finding a style you love isn’t going to be hard. But before you fully commit, there are a few key factors to consider. After all, you want to leave the salon feeling empowered, not regretful.

Many bangs, like the wispy curtain cut or shaggy, mullet-esque fringe, are known for their adaptability. But as Nexxus Stylist Clariss Rubenstein notes, choosing the right version of a popular style that’s most complementary to your face shape is essential. The internet is teeming with swoon-worthy options, but if you’re unsure where to begin, expert guidance is essential to shaping your decision.

To help whittle down your choices, TZR spoke with top celebrity hairstylists for a breakdown of the most popular types of bangs, their tips for choosing the best fit, and how to style them at home.

Side Bangs

Side bangs — the nostalgic Y2K hairstyle featuring bangs swept to one side — are making a comeback. The classic style is popular again for a reason; they look good on a variety of face shapes and complement different hairstyles and textures. Side bangs can also be paired with layers or curtain bangs for a more dimensional look.

After blow-drying your hair with a paddle brush, use a hair straightener to smooth out any flyways. Then add a touch of lightweight oil for some extra shine.

Micro Bangs

To style your micro bangs, once blowdried, hit them with a strong hairspray to lock your look into place.

Wispy Bangs

Wispy bangs are softer and lighter than blunt bangs. Because they don’t form a solid “wall” of hair, they look more piece-y and natural. They blend seamlessly into layers and can be styled to fall across your forehead or swept to either side, framing the face beautifully. “This type of bang is a lot less commitment in comparison to other bangs you can get,” Balmain Hair Ambassador Gonn Kinoshita previously told TZR. “If you have a day where you don’t feel like having bangs, you can simply sweep them to the side and have them seamlessly blend with the rest of your hair.”

Opt for a texturizing spray, mousse, or light cream to add definition to your wispy bangs without weighing them down.

Curtain Bangs

Arguably one of the trendiest styles of the 2020s, curtain bangs feature soft layers that lightly fall around the outer portion of the face. Just as the name suggests, it’s meant to mimic the look of drawn-open curtain and, as such, literally frames your best attributes. “For a curtain fringe, the hair should be split down the middle and cut around the temples to a shape that resembles the letter C,” says celebrity stylist and MAV artistic director, Marilisa Sears.

The primary reason for the popularity of these bangs are their versatility. Sears explains that it’s ideal for virtually all face shapes because you can control the width and length of the edges to get the most flattering style. “Longer bangs help soften square and oval shapes and give a more edgy and lived-in look, while cleaner, shorter versions are ideal for adding texture,” she adds.

Styling requires a little more maintenance, as the longer pieces can look flat if they’re not touched up. That said, Sears recommends investing in a large-barrel, natural bristle round brush to create a naturally fluffed look. “The brush should be just large enough to slightly bend the ends of the hair,” she says. A good mousse will also be key to give the bangs movement. “Cake ‘The Thick Trick’ Volumizing Styling Foam is my go-to. Just a small amount on damp hair is all that’s needed to revive lifeless strands.”

Bardot Bangs

Bardot bangs are similar to curtain bangs, but with a little more oomph — think fuller and much more lived-in. “This type of bang doesn’t have a distinct middle part and has built-in volume due to the way it’s cut,” says Rubenstein. Much like the actor, they exude femininity and main character energy. Instead of long edges, Bardot bangs feature shorter pieces that softly sweep the forehead and frame the face. “The look is meant to have a fluffy powdery finish and is less about defined lines,” she says.

Styling this type of fringe is also much more forgiving thanks to its shorter layers. For the most natural feel, Rubenstein recommends using a volumizing product, like the Nexxus Unbreakable Care Root Lift Thickening Spray, to lay the foundation for all that billowy texture. “First, spray it on damp hair, then give the strands a few tugs with a medium round brush for extra bounce,” she advises.

Blunt Bangs

A blunt fringe is so classic, it’s the style most people think of when they hear the word bangs. Cut even across the forehead, the dramatic shape can emphasize any haircut, but can veer too thick or bulky for some. According to celebrity stylist and Eco Style brand ambassador Ursula Stephen, this type of bang requires some maintenance depending on your hair type. “Consulting with your stylist will answer all your concerns and help determine if this look will work for you,” she adds.

Fans of blunt bangs love its timeless edge and the way it instantly gives you a signature look. At its best, straight fringe that grazes the brow with the right amount of thickness feels bold and fashion-forward. “It also is great for strengthening the cheekbones when styled right,” adds Sears.

She tells TZR that a Mason Pearson brush and flexible hairspray will become your go-to tools for keeping your bangs pristine. “A blunt style needs a strong look and not a lot of lift, this brush smoothes the hair and helps create a sleek finish while blow-drying,” says Sears. Her pro tip? Blow the hair out from the root from left to right — this will keep the bangs tight to the forehead and ensure they don’t appear too bulky.

Birkin Bangs

Inspired by the legendary Jane Birkin, this classic bang is always in style and especially popular for the fall. “The main characteristics of this look are the longer length that falls just below the eyebrow and the wispy, never blunt, ends,” notes Rubenstein. This also makes them great for those who are new to bangs. “Some styles take a while to grow out, but this option is a nice way to change up your hair without going too dramatic,” she says.

The key to this fringe is embracing the sultrily rumpled bedhead look. Rubenstein tells TZR that while the bangs are meant to be straightforward, they should never look too neat or overly styled. As such, she suggests keeping a good dry shampoo on hand to lightly lift the hair and add the right amount of texture. “A flat brush can be useful if you need to work out any curl, but for this kind of bang your fingers are better suited to make them appear effortlessly tousled.”

Curly Bangs

On natural curls, bangs can be used to add shape and definition to the hairstyle. “It can completely change the cut, but what’s most appealing is that there’s no rules when it comes to thickness,” says Sears. Whether you have tight coils or loose curls, you can easily add a bang to your look without changing too much of your regular hair care routine.

The beauty of this style is that you don’t need a bunch of new products or tools. According to Sears, the biggest adjustment is simply allotting a little extra time for twisting to ensure the curls all move cohesively. “A defining curl cream works well for this as it will give the curls movement and keep them from looking rigid.”

Shaggy Fringe

The shaggy fringe is most associated with choppy haircuts like the wolf cut and its close cousin, the cub. For these styles, a bang helps create a blended look that fits seamlessly with the rest of your layers. It’s a very low-maintenance look especially great for naturally wavy textures or those who cringe at the thought of daily styling.

“The shaggy fringe is easily the most simple type of bang to manage at home,” says Sears. In place of special brushes or hot tools, she suggests applying a leave-in conditioner and letting your hair air-dry before giving it a slight tousle or scrunch if you have curly hair. However, if you are in a rush, a diffuser can help speed up the process. “Remember — the layers will automatically give you texture, so your focus should be on blending the bangs into the cut to better frame the face,” she adds.

No matter which style you choose, Stephen notes that you’ll need to consider your lifestyle and how much time you want to devote to maintenance. Bangs are pretty easy, but many looks need a few extra minutes in the morning to really reach their full potential. “It’s best to have a heart-to-heart with yourself and your stylist, that way you can commit with confidence,” she says. From there, all that’s left to do is simply take the plunge.

Short hair dominated the summer, with celebs from Sofia Richie Grainge to Keke Palmer taking the plunge and getting bob haircuts. Now, with fall on the way, what short hairstyles will we continue to see as we welcome in cooler, crisper weather? To get the lowdown, we spoke with three hairstylists: Dimitris Giannetos, Mia Santiago, and Sanda Petrut.

After such a strong run during the warmer months, the stylists share that bobs won’t be going anywhere: In fact, expect to see more variations of bobs come autumn, including growing out bobs into lobs (long bobs!), tons of textured and tousled looks, and more. Aside from bobs, other trending hair looks to keep an eye out for will be pixies, shags, and face-framing layers.

If you’re ready for a change and looking to embrace some short hair ideas for fall, read on for our 17 favorite options, all approved by hairstylists.

A few weeks ago, Halsey revealed that they dyed their hair a vibrant shade of turquoise, which instantly drew fan comparisons to the many times over the last decade that the singer-songwriter has donned blue dye and wigs. It’s actually been a good, long while since she’s given us some Tumblr realness, so the reveal that this was a seemingly long-term commitment to a vivid color feels like it may be signaling a bigger shift away from all of the neutral, low-key looks we’ve been seeing from so many celebrity beauty icons in the last few years.

But even though the blue baby bangs and bob are a big break from current beauty norms, it seems Halsey may already be a little bored.

On Wednesday, August 20, they posted a selfie video to their Instagram Stories with a whimsical butterfly filter. Not a filter, however: the latest changes to her hair.

Photo: Instagram/Halsey

What was once decidedly a chin-length bob is now a cheekbone bob. In fact, it’s nearly a bowl cut, if not for the fact that she cut her baby bangs even shorter and a bit choppier than before.

But the biggest reveal comes when Halsey runs their fingers through their hair to show gradient layers of color underneath: The turquoise switches to emerald green and then highlighter yellow.

Protective styles, specifically braids, are my go-to during summer months. They give my hair a break from daily manipulation and maintenance, heat styling, and the ever-looming threat of humidity-induced frizz. But, if I’m being honest, braids are more than just a summer staple — they’re a timeless statement look. Not only do they protect and promote hair growth, but they also deliver major style moments with minimal upkeep. But you know what truly sets braids apart? Their versatility. Whether you’re running errands, hanging out with friends, or lounging on vacation, braids can adapt to suit any vibe. And they don’t have to be worn straight down your back, either — braids can be styled into updos like top knots, buns, high ponytails, and half-up, half-down looks for even more variety. You can keep things sleek and simple or go bold with added accessories, color, or more intricate patterns — the possibilities are truly endless. It’s no wonder so many celebrities, including Zoë Kravitz, Tia Mowry, and Tessa Thompson, have fully embraced the look at events and on the red carpet.

Ahead, TZR has rounded up the best celebrity braided updos that’ll give you some major inspiration for your next hairstyle. Get ready to book that braiding appointment.

Laura Harrier

Harrier’s sleek, small box braids are styled into a half-up, half-down ponytail, creating a look that’s polished yet playful. The braids have undone ends that fall freely down her back, adding length, texture, and movement.

Jourdan Dunn

Gathered into a high ponytail, Dunn’s braided updo brings all the drama. Paired with sleek, laid edges, this look commands attention.

Gabrielle Union

Union styled her box braids into a high top knot, leaving out a few face-framing pieces for a soft, effortless touch. The result? A quick and easy style that still looks super put-together.

Ayo Edebiri

A side-swept updo, like Edebiri’s, is an easy way to switch up your braids. Throw on some claw clips or pins, and you’ve instantly leveled up a simple, everyday look.

Zoë Kravitz

For the 2021 Met Gala, Kravitz’s micro-braids were parted down the middle then swept into a polished French twist for an effortless yet sophisticated look.

Tia Mowry

For a film premiere, Mowry took her curly bun up a notch by adding cornrows, giving her look a cool and modern edge.

Tyla

For GQ’s Man of the Year event in 2023, Tyla paired her sleek stitch braids with a curly ponytail for an attention-grabbing style.

Yara Shahidi

Shahidi is a seasoned pro when it comes to braided styles. For this look, her hair was slicked back before a few thick, cropped braids were added for a fresh take on the classic ponytail.

Tessa Thompson

Styled by celebrity hairstylist Nai’vasha Johnson, Thompson’s braids were crafted into a forward-facing chignon, giving her updo a sculptural effect.

Switching it up! Lindsay Lohan has tried out countless lock looks since appearing in Freaky Friday in 2003, and she has celebrity hairstylist Danielle Priano to thank for her recent voluminous blonde ‘dos.

The hair guru is responsible for the actress’ high ponytails, loose waves, sleek blowouts, and most recently, her curls for the Freakier Friday premiere in Los Angeles, California on July 22.

“Lindsay’s look at the original Freaky Friday premiere was very much of that moment — think bold, chunky highlights, side bangs, and lots of playful texture. It had that early 2000s edge that matched the teen rock vibe of the film. … Everyone wanted that high-contrast blonde pop,” she tells ET. 

“For Freakier Friday, we wanted her look to be evolved and radiant. … The goal was to create a modern, elevated style that felt effortless,” she continues. 

And Priano accomplished just that with Schwarzkopf’s BLONDME Bond Repair Nourishing Shampoo and Conditioner, OSiS+ Upload Bodifying Cream, BLONDME Bond Repair Sealing Balm, and OSiS+ Glow Shine Serum, complete with Remi Cachet’s Clip In Deluxe 20.

“Lindsay’s style has evolved so much. … Her current look is much more refined. It’s still blonde, but now it’s all about softness and shine,” she tells ET. 

While Lohan has since ditched the streaked highlight trend, she is not afraid to experiment with her mane. 

“Lindsay is so open and down to try new things. … Since she’s been in the industry for so long, she’s super in tune with her face shape and hair needs, so even when we push the boundaries, it always feels authentic,” Priano explains. 

As for how the duo masters this: “We always start by talking about what she’s wearing and the kind of statement she wants to make. From there, we bounce ideas back and forth and land on something that feels true to her and appropriate for the occasion,” she notes. 

The beauty expert’s next mission? “While Lindsay typically prefers to wear her hair down, I’d love to incorporate more playful updos for that fresh vibe.”

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Oh, you like my hair? I made it from scratch. I’d tell you how, but I’m not going to… because it’d be better if you heard it explained in Nara Smith’s forever-soothing voice.

Over the past few years, Smith’s online following has positively blossomed. We’re there for her impressive from-scratch cooking skills, of course. But there’s also something so magnetic about her style, her relationship (she’s married to the handsome Lucky Blue Smith), her adorable kids (Rumble Honey, Slim Easy, Whimsy Lou, and a fourth on the way), and of course, her sleek bob.

Now, the 23-year-old is partnering with Vegamour for a campaign highlighting hair loss and how the brand’s new GRO+ Advanced supplement system can help. It’s a stressful thing to talk about, which is exactly why they’re bringing Smith’s serene energy and calming tone to the conversation.

Ahead, the model tells all about her hair, her wash day routine, her Vegamour favorites, and how she came to rock that iconic bob.

About Her Hair

“My hair journey hasn’t been linear—eczema, postpartum shifts, breakage… I’ve been through it. But I’ve learned to care for it with more patience, more gentleness. And now I truly love its softness, its versatility, and the strength it’s come back with.”

On Finding Her Signature Bob

“I think the bob chose me, honestly! I started dealing with scalp eczema, and keeping my hair straight made it so much easier to manage and care for my scalp. It felt strong, effortless, and like it held space for both softness and structure. It became this expression of ease and intention. Now it’s definitely my signature, but it started as an act of care.”

Her Straight Hair Care Routine

“On wash days, I use the GRO+ Advanced Shampoo and Conditioner—my scalp loves them. I follow that with the GRO+ Serum on damp roots and gently massage it in. I go in with a heat protectant and leave in before blow drying and then do a pass with a flat iron. Sometimes I finish off with oil if my hair feels extra dry.”

Her Curly Hair Care Routine

“When I go curly, moisture becomes my top priority. I deep condition more often, use a microfiber towel to dry, and scrunch in a leave-in while my hair’s still damp.”

“In the campaign, I’m wearing my natural curls and extensions, which honestly feels like such a full-circle moment. My scalp has come such a long way—there was a time I couldn’t even imagine wearing extensions because of how sensitive and inflamed it used to be. That’s why scalp care is non-negotiable for me now, no matter how I wear my hair. Now I’m back with my bob, but whether it’s curly, slicked back, or in a protective style, everything starts at the root. A strong, healthy scalp is what makes all the rest possible.”

Her Approach to Hair Health

“I believe true hair health starts from within but it doesn’t stop there. For me, it’s a 360° ritual. I nourish my body with hydration, nutrient-dense meals, and stress management, but I also give my scalp the same level of care and intention. That’s why I love the GRO+ Advanced routine from Vegamour—it works both internally and externally. The supplements support hormone balance, inflammation, and nutrient levels from the inside, while the GRO+ Serum and Shampoo help reset the scalp environment and reactivate growth at the root.”

How Motherhood Changed Her Routine

“Pregnancy, postpartum, and hormonal hair changes are real. I’ve had to relearn my hair and give it grace. I’m more patient now—and more intentional. With less time, I lean on products that truly work without complicating my day. The GRO+ Advanced Supplements have been a game-changer because they work from the inside out, and I love the scalp serum. It takes just seconds to apply but makes such a difference in keeping my scalp balanced and encouraging new growth.”

Her Sleek Bob Tips

“Don’t overthink it! I usually blow-dry it with a flat brush, get it straight with a flat iron, flip the ends and then tuck one side behind the ear for that effortless feel. I finish with a tiny bit of lightweight oil on the ends to keep it shiny and piece-y without weighing it down.”

Her Hair Inspiration

“I don’t gravitate towards a certain person. It’s more drawing inspiration from vintage hairstyles and tools.”

The Hairstyle That Makes Her Feel Most Like Nara

“Honestly, soft and simple always makes me feel the most me. I love when my hair feels lived-in… like it’s had a day. Whether it’s my natural curls or a bob, I like when it moves and feels touchable.”