The Best Bangs for Your Face Shape

While many of the worst haircut horror stories include some sort of disastrous fringe experiment, the truth is bangs get a bad wrap. With the right cut, the face-framing strands can dramatically improve your overall bone structure and instantly add a youthful vibe. Not sure if a severe crop will suit you? Fear not! Before you take the plunge, check out Beautylish’s guide to the most flattering fringe for your face shape.

OVAL

"The oval shape can rock pretty much any style of bangs," says hairstylist Chris Lopalluto of the Sharon Dorram at Sally Hershberger salon in New York City. "Create a chic statement by trying full, thick bangs, but make sure the strands hit above lashes and below the brow."

SQUARE

"Opt for long layers that hang below the cheekbones on both sides to soften the boxy shape," says Chris. "Blunt bangs can work, but only if forehead fringe hangs heavy below the eyebrows and is tapered on the sides."

HEART-SHAPED

"If your face is top-heavy, feathered side-swept bangs are the way to go," says Chris. "The longer side layers create a balancing effect by bringing the focus outward at eye level." The shortest piece should hit right at the eyebrow, while the longest piece should hang around the bottom of the ear.

ROUND 

"Get full bangs that are a bit longer on the sides," says Chris. The arched fringe will cut the circle shape in half with a soft curved effect. The ends should hang slightly above the brows in the middle of the forehead. With this cut, you can also create a side-swept style.