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Chic, iconic and influential, Birkin bangs have long been associated with Parisian style. Soft and wispy, Birkin bangs are a relaxed way to refine your face - bringing elegance and cinema style to every look. In this blog, Laura Elliott, Head of Education at Neäl & Wølf shares what Birkin bangs are, why they’re in fashion, and how you achieve the look.
What are Birkin bangs?
Birkin bangs are a soft, feathered fringe inspired by actress Jane Birkin. This icon is famous for her French cinema career, as well as being the namesake of the Hermès Birkin bag. Another thing she’s renowned for? Her gorgeous locks.
Unlike heavier fringes, Birkin bangs are defined by airy texture and a slightly piecey finish. Typically cut with subtle layers, the look works with your natural movement to give the fringe a relaxed feel. The bangs fall gently across your forehead to create a soft, flattering style that complements a range of hair lengths and textures.
Content & Stylist Credit: Instagram @hairbyshanie
Why are Birkin bangs so fashionable?
Birkin bangs first became popular in the ‘60s, but decades later they’re still in the spotlight. The soft, wispy texture creates the illusion of fuller, more luminous hair - ideal if you’re looking to enhance thickness and shape. Birkin bangs are perfect for a refresh as they give hair more structure, without you having to sacrifice length.
Birkin bangs also suit a range of hair types, from naturally straight to softly wavy, and are particularly flattering on oval, square, and round face shapes, where their lightly parted finish helps to soften and balance the features.
How are Birkin bangs different to curtain bangs?
Although both styles are soft and face-framing, Birkin bangs and curtain bangs differ in their shape and overall effect. Birkin bangs are more delicate and evenly distributed, whereas curtain bangs sweep away from the face and are parted in the middle. Overall, Birkin bangs are a lighter, more classic fringe, while curtain bangs create a more open, face-framing silhouette. Read our blog to find out more about curtain bangs: 5 Reasons to Choose Layered Hairstyles with Curtain Bangs
Who do Birkin bangs suit best?
Birkin bangs are incredibly versatile and can work across a range of hair types, textures, and face shapes. However, if you have a smaller forehead, this style can feel a little overwhelming - so a softer, more feathered fringe may be a better option. For those with naturally curly hair, Birkin bangs can still look beautiful, but it’s worth considering your daily routine. Styling may take a little longer, as the fringe will often need smoothing to achieve the desired shape, which can mean more heat styling over time. For more information on matching your cut with your face, read our blog: What is the Best Haircut for Your Face Shape?
How do you get Birkin bangs?
Birkin bangs are shorter through the centre and gradually get longer towards the sides, creating that effortless French-girl feel. To get the look right, it helps to bring an inspiration photo to your salon appointment, along with an idea of where you’d like the shortest part to sit. This can be just below, at, or slightly above the eyebrows, depending on what suits you best. The sides should fall past the eyes to help open up the face and create a soft frame.
The overall cut should feel neat but not too perfect - keeping the shape while still looking light, soft, and slightly undone. Book in at your local salon today to get the look: Neäl & Wølf Salon Finder
How do you style Birkin bangs?
When styling Birkin bangs, start with clean, damp hair. Using AMPLIFY Volumising Shampoo and Conditioner helps to create a lightweight, lifted base - ideal for keeping the fringe soft and full without falling flat.
Before blow-drying, apply MIRACLE Rapid Blow-Dry Mist to help speed up drying time while protecting the hair from heat. As you dry, use a small paddle brush or a fine-tooth comb to guide the fringe, keeping the hair moving together.
Drying the hair gently forwards and backwards with a hair dryer will help prevent too much separation, allowing the bangs to sit smoothly and evenly across the forehead.
To finish, add a light mist of TEXTURE Dry Shampoo & Finishing Spray at the roots and through the ends. This will create soft hold and subtle separation, while maintaining that effortless, slightly undone French-girl finish. Read our feature in Red to learn more about styling Birkin bangs: ‘Birkin Bangs’ are Back - Here’s How to Wear This Season’s French Girl Fringe
Content & Stylist Credit: Instagram @scarletts_hairstudio
Birkin bangs are a timeless way to introduce softness and shape to your locks. With the right cut, a thoughtful styling routine, and carefully chosen products, this iconic fringe can be tailored to suit your individual hair type and lifestyle. View our full range of products to help achieve this look: All Products
