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The Expert Guide to Curly Bangs

It's all about texture right now.

By Lindy Segal
curly bangs
@bridgetbragerhair//Instagram

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From curtain bangs to wispy bangs, every season seems to have its trendy bang style. But one that’s been gaining traction as of late puts the focus on something bangs rarely do: texture. And to be more specific, curls.

Curly bangs are becoming increasingly popular among celebrities (and the rest of us) who want to try something new. “Curly bangs are definitely a popular and flattering way to wear curls and explore a new style,” says Biolage curl specialist and celebrity stylist Cynthia Alvarez.

The first thing to take into consideration is length. “Ask your stylist to cut your curly bangs when your hair is dry,” recommends Alvarez. “This will help ensure that they don’t accidentally get cut too short.” You can also go for a curly curtain bang, which is a little more forgiving, especially when they are growing out. “Curly bangs tend to be more flattering this way,” says Alvarez.

Thinking of trying the look? Read on products to help you style curly bangs, plus 10 ways to wear them inspired by celebs.

1

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The look is best left fairly natural, but “Curly bangs need some product to prevent them from getting frizzy,” explains Alvarez. “A lightweight defining gel like Biolage Curl Defining Elixir is perfect because it will help to define and hold your curl but won’t weigh it down."

To style, "Apply the gel to wet curls then once dry, apply a light serum or oil to your hands and break the gel cast to reveal perfect bouncy curls," says the pro.

2

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A hairdryer with a diffuser attachment helps shape curls and waves as they dry.

Keep scrolling for 10 celeb hairstyles to inspire your look.

3

Christian Serratos

instagramView full post on Instagram

We love how the Selena star paired wispy, curly bangs along with a sleek ponytail.

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4

Kerry Washington

Washington’s fresh haircut includes face-framing coils.

5

Natasha Lyonne

neiman marcus celebrates the launch of their "celebrate big, love even bigger" holiday campaign with 2021 fantasy gift event
Leon Bennett//Getty Images

Lyonne’s choppy bangs are the perfect complement to her long waves.

6

Yara Shahidi

actress yara shahidi bts photo shoot celebrating her appearance on the trumpet awards
Leon Bennett//Getty Images

Curly bangs with an updo? Yes please, Yara.

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7

Sandra Oh

curly bangs
Mike Marsland//Getty Images

Sometimes all the styling you need is a little bit of tousling, as demonstrated here by Sandra Oh.

8

Alanna Arrington

2018 night of stars gala
Taylor Hill//Getty Images

Bangs are signature to the model’s curly shag haircut.

9

Alia Shawkat

vulture festival 2021
David Livingston//Getty Images

Shawkat’s midi bangs and curly crop are a match made in hair heaven.

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10

Jasmine Sanders

Don’t forget about the side bang! Sanders’s loose curls are a gorgeous update to the 2000s trend.

11

Sarah Hyland

A little natural wave goes a long way, as seen here on Sarah Hyland.

12

Joey King

hulu's "the act" fyc event
Erik Voake//Getty Images

As she was growing out her hair after The Act, King’s softly textured pixie had Audrey Hepburn vibes.

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