How the curtain fringe became the style of the season

Where the post-break-up haircut was once a beauty move symbolic with fresh starts, the post-lockdown chop now reigns supreme – and there’s one style in particular that we’re all gravitating towards.

Research by Cosmetify has revealed the curtain fringe, or ‘curtain bangs’, to be the hairstyle with the biggest search increase compared to 2020, suggesting it’s shaping up to be the style of the season.

In another life, the curtain fringe was synonymous with '90s boybands, but the new way to wear the look is thankfully more Brigitte Bardot than teenage heartthrob, defined by longer, more tapered strands that fall flatteringly around the face (rather than in your eyes).

"The fringe trend never really goes away, and we’re constantly seeing different versions coming into fashion, whether they’re brand new trends or reinvented looks,” says celebrity stylist Nicky Clarke. “Side-sweeping bangs have been popular lately but we’re now starting to see a blunter version coming through with ‘curtain bangs’, adding a new twist. Curtain bangs are incredibly versatile, working on any length of hair, and allow the wearer to really take ownership of their look, pairing well with edgy rock chick looks or more pared back, off-duty styles. Styling the rest of the hair in soft, beachy waves that aren’t too done allows the fringe to look strong and be the focal point of the look,” he says.

There’s also a practical factor behind the rise of these cheekbone-skimming strands. With hair appointments rarer than gold (not to mention the unsettling thought of another surprise shuttering), the curtain fringe grows out with grace, rather than creeping into your eyes until you’re forced to turn to the kitchen scissors and a YouTube tutorial. Keep up with the trims, or don’t - the result will always look effortlessly cool.

Below, find all the inspiration you need to embrace the curtain fringe…