Celebrity Stylist Shares Top Fringe Trends and Styles to Avoid
Hairstylist Adam Reed offers advice on choosing the right fringe for hair texture, density, and face shape.
Celebrity hairstylist Adam Reed, who has worked with stars like Madonna, Ellie Goulding, and Harry Styles, has outlined the most flattering fringe styles and those that may require more consideration.
Reed emphasizes that the key to a successful fringe lies in understanding individual hair texture, density, and face shape, rather than simply mimicking a celebrity look. He believes that a well-chosen fringe can soften features, add movement, and refresh a hairstyle without a significant loss of length, and that great haircuts are not limited by age.
Recommended Fringe Styles
The Soft Side-Swept Fringe: Described as a timeless classic, this style is an excellent choice for those new to bangs. Its angled shape creates an asymmetrical line across the face, highlighting the eyes and cheekbones while maintaining an open look. Reed notes its versatility and ease of personalization.
The Choppy Birkin Fringe: Inspired by Jane Birkin, this style offers an effortlessly chic aesthetic with textured ends and subtle separation, allowing glimpses of the forehead. Modern interpretations, seen on Anne Hathaway, provide a more personalized, undone finish.
The Long, Soft Curtain Fringe: For those seeking a less committal option, the curtain fringe features longer sections that sweep away from the center or off-center parting, framing the face and drawing attention to the cheekbones and jawline. This style can work well with medium to long hair.
The Feathered, Airy Fringe: This delicate style features wispy, separated pieces that skim the forehead. It is particularly suitable for those with fine or low-density hair, as it works with existing texture without appearing heavy.
The Midi Fringe: Positioned between a traditional short fringe and longer curtain bangs, the midi fringe offers a directional yet not overly dramatic update. It typically frames the eyes and works well with shorter haircuts and bobs.
Fringe Styles Requiring More Consideration
While Reed does not believe any fringe should be off-limits due to age, certain styles warrant extra thought regarding weight, length, and shape in relation to natural hair and features.
The Overly Rounded ‘Helmet’ Fringe: A very rounded, solid fringe can sometimes feel restrictive and create a shadowing effect that makes the face appear more enclosed. Softening the edges and ensuring movement can help mitigate this.
The Very Short Micro Fringe: This style is a deliberate statement that requires careful consideration of proportions, hairline, and personal style. A thorough consultation is advised to ensure it complements facial features.
The Very Heavy, Blunt Fringe: While a well-cut blunt fringe can be chic, excessive weight can lead to a dense appearance lacking movement. Reed suggests consulting with a stylist on the amount of hair brought forward and the internal shaping to avoid a heavy line across the face.