Considering Bangs? Look to These Celebrities for Inspiration

By Allegra Gallian–

To cut bangs, or not to cut bangs? That is the question. Bangs are a proven and simple way to freshen up your look without completely changing your hairstyle. They frame your face and add some intrigue, but they do require work and maintenance. Since bangs sit on your forehead, the can get greasier more quickly, meaning you might have to wash them more. They also require regular trims to keep them looking fresh and out of your eyes.

But don’t let that stop you! Bangs are a fun way to shake things up if you’re feeling stuck in a hairstyle rut. One thing to consider when determining which type of bangs is right for you: know your face shape. Most people have either an oval, round, square, or heart-shaped face. Knowing your face shape will help you figure out if full blunt bangs or longer side-swept bangs will look best.

The good news is that there are plenty of celebrities to look to for inspiration if you’re ready to make the big snip. Here are some of our favorites.

Zooey Deschanel

If there’s one celebrity who’s most known for her bangs, it’s Zooey Deschanel. Her iconic thick, full bangs are certainly enviable, but there are also attainable. Her bangs get gradually longer on each side, and her bangs start back from her hairline. To style bangs like this, use a small amount of mousse or leave-in conditioner, and blow dry using a medium-size round brush to give that slightly rounded look.

Emma Stone

Emma Stone is another celebrity who’s known for making the switch between bangs and no bangs frequently. She can often be seen wearing longer side-swept bangs. To get this look, you’ll want to part your hair deeply to one side. Dry your hair so that the bangs swoop over your eyebrow and forehead. If you need help keeping the hairs in place, finish the look with a little bit of hairspray or styling pomade.

Jessica Biel

If you wear your hair long, Jessica Biel’s bangs look is one to consider. The straight-across blunt bangs give her a mod, bohemian hairstyle that works well with both straight and wavy hair.

Kerry Washington

Currently wearing your hair in a bob or a lob (long bob)? Add some face-framing fringe by cutting blunt or wispy full bangs. Kerry wears her bangs on the fuller side, and the fringe accents the the bob haircut. (Think updated 1920s flapper style).

Reese Witherspoon

Reese Witherspoon is another great inspiration for side-swept bangs. Her hair is on the thinner side, so she keeps her side bangs lighter and wispier. To get the look, part your hair on the right or left side and sweep your bangs across your forehead.

Halle Berry

Halle Berry often wears her hair in a funky, textured style. Her bangs follow suit, with a textured fringe. This look is versatile, and it can be worn as full bangs or swept to the side. They complement the intentionally messy piecey-ness of a textured cut.

Allegra Gallian is a freelance writer and blogger who specializes in lifestyle, health, wellness and fitness. She lives in the southwest suburbs of Chicago, Illinois. When she’s not writing, Allegra enjoys reading, cooking and spending time with friends and family.