Curtain bangs are everywhere right now, and considering they have been popular in some way for decades, we don’t see that changing any time soon. But what makes this haircut endure through the changing tides of fashion? In this deep dive, we’ll explore the stairway to hair heaven curtain bangs have climbed—decade by decade, swish by swish.
Not only will we talk about curtain bangs through the ages, but we’ll also talk about them across the ages—that is, how people of all ages can wear this ultra-flattering style!
Introduction to Curtain Bangs
In case you’re new to the trend, curtain bangs are a type of fringe parted in the middle, framing each side of the face. They are often longer than traditional bangs and have a more effortless, casual look. This hairstyle has been around for quite some time but has recently made a significant comeback.
Curtain Bangs Across the Ages
Here are some of the iconic curtain bangs looks from different eras:
The Mod Era (1960s)
In the swinging ’60s, curtain bangs burst onto the scene with the force of a cultural revolution. Synonymous with the mod movement, this hairstyle captured the exuberance and forward-thinking spirit of the age. Style icons like Brigitte Bardot made them the height of sophistication. These face-framing marvels, styled with geometric precision or voluminous curls, became the hallmark of a forward-moving generation.
Bohemian Chic (1970s)
The free-spirited ’70s saw the curtain bangs soften and relax with the bohemian winds of change. They grew longer and wispier, perfectly matching the era’s laissez-faire attitude. Farrah Fawcett’s feathery locks encapsulated the decade’s style, as curtain bangs took a carefree turn, riding the waves of natural, easygoing fashion.
Glam Rock (1980s)
Then came the outrageous ’80s, where curtain bangs got caught in the glam rock fever. They turned edgier, bolder, and wilder, meshing seamlessly with the era’s thirst for excess. Madonna and Debbie Harry adopted this hairdo, giving it a fringed twist symbolic of the time—loud, proud, and unapologetically flamboyant.
Grunge Revival (1990s)
The ’90s grunge wave brought curtain bangs back down to earth. Moving away from the gloss of previous years, these messy, piece-y fringes mirrored the decade’s raw, gritty brevity in fashion. Icons like Winona Ryder and Drew Barrymore ditched the hairspray for a more carefree rendition, proving that simplicity could be just as spellbinding.
Boho Revival (2000s)
With the new millennium came a nostalgic resurgence of boho-chic—full circle to a modernized ’70s renaissance. Flowing dresses paired with curtain bangs once again became the look du jour. Figures like Nicole Richie and Sienna Miller redefined them, sporting soft waves or sleek layers, bridging past nostalgia with contemporary fashion.
The Rise of Influencers (2010s)
The 2010s saw curtain bangs take the digital stage as influencers embraced and broadcasted their allure to the world. Zooey Deschanel and Alexa Chung revived this versatile, dynamic, and instantly sharable style. As social platforms thrived, so did the enduring love for curtain bangs, a style reborn through Instagram filters and Pinterest boards.
Contemporary Trends (2020s)
Now, in the 2020s, curtain bangs continue to reign, championing diversity and adaptability. Style-savvy figures like Dakota Johnson and Taylor Swift flaunt contemporary takes that speak to personal expression and the uncanny ability of curtain bangs to stay relevant. Their ability to blend with any hairstyle, texture, or era is genuinely unparalleled.
Wearing Curtain Bangs at Any Age
Young or mature, there’s a curtain bang that complements every face and narrates a different story.
Here are some ideas to consider for whichever age group you’re in. But remember, these are just ideas, and age is just a number! If you want to experiment with curtain bangs, go for it! It’s all about finding the right style that makes you feel confident and beautiful.
20s
In your 20s, go all out and be adventurous and embrace shorter and edgier curtain bangs. Opt for a choppy or micro bangs style to add some fun and flirty vibes to your look.
30s
In your 30s, you may want a more polished and sophisticated look. To achieve this, consider longer curtain bangs that graze the cheekbones or chin.
40s
You may want to add some volume and definition to your hair at this age. Try pairing curtain bangs with layers to add movement and texture to your overall hairstyle.
50s
In your 50s or above, go for softer, wispy curtain bangs to frame the face and add a youthful touch. Avoid heavy and blunt bangs that may weigh down your features.
Maintaining Curtain Bangs
As with any hairstyle, maintaining curtain bangs requires some effort and care. Here are some tips to keep your curtain bangs looking fabulous:
- Regular trims: To maintain the shape and length of your curtain bangs, regular trims are the way to go—every 4-6 weeks.
- Styling: Style your curtain bangs using a round brush and blow dryer. This will add volume and help them stay in place.
- Products: Use a small amount of texturizing or volumizing product to add texture and hold to your bangs.
- Wash schedule: Since curtain bangs tend to get oily faster, wash them every other day or use dry shampoo between washes. Some people even wash just their bangs to keep them looking fresh.
- Consider your hair type: If you have fine hair, avoid heavy products that can weigh down your bangs. Use a diffuser when blow-drying for curly hair to enhance your natural texture.
- Be gentle: When styling and brushing your bangs, be gentle to avoid breakage and damage. Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to detangle them.
- Embrace the natural look: Don’t be afraid to embrace your curtain bangs’ natural movement and texture. They are meant to have a soft, effortless look—don’t worry about perfecting them.
Get Curtain Bangs in West Palm Beach
The story of curtain bangs is less about hair and more about history. Through their evolution, we witness revolutions, trends, attitudes, and the human desire to express identity through style. Everyone should try bangs at some point, and in our opinion, the curtain variety is a fantastic way to dip your toes in these waters.
If you’re in West Palm Beach and looking for the best hairstylist to help you get the look you want, Anushka Palm Beach is the way to go. Discuss the perfect curtain bangs for your face shape, and work with their expert stylists to frame your visage in timeless fashion.
