Her light, wispy bangs. The appeal of Birkin bangs has ebbed and flowed over the years, but we are definitely riding the wave right now.
“I think the revival of this style of bangs has a lot to do with the world’s obsession with Wednesday star Jenna Ortega, who rocks this look,” says Castillo Bataille, hairstylist and Matrix brand ambassador. “Her character in the series and in real life exudes a vibe and energy that we all want to have.”
Another modern-day celebrity who gave Birkin bangs new momentum is Anne Hathaway, who brought them back into the spotlight while paying homage to her character in The Devil Wears Prada after her transformation. And in recent years, “Dakota Johnson has been the ultimate Birkin bangs icon, pairing them with her laid-back style.”
Already convinced you want to try Birkin bangs? Here’s what you need to know.
What Are Birkin Bangs?
Jane’s version of the fringe was “a short, blunt style falling just above the eyebrows with finer ends,” explains Bataille. “What I love most about these bangs is that they require less hair than a classic blunt bang.”
Although the modern version isn’t quite as short as Birkin’s original fringe, the principle of keeping ends blunt and wispy remains. Another bonus: “This technique leaves more texture and dimension around the face,” he adds.
Who Should Try Them?
“This style is particularly suited to those with fine, straight hair. These bangs can be cut into any texture.”
If you’re getting bangs cut from scratch, it’s always best to start a little longer than you think you need to ensure the hair doesn’t bounce up too much — then have your stylist cut more if needed.
What to Ask Your Stylist
As with any new hairstyle or cut, “it’s best to bring a reference photo of someone with a similar face shape and hair texture to yours wearing the style you want,” advises Cardenas. “This helps ensure you and your stylist are on the same page.”
“The idea is to keep the bang area tight and flattering to the face — this style of fringe is a bit different from classic blunt bangs. The width of these bangs should stay relatively close to the eyes and eyebrows, and the ends should be fine and wispy.”
How to Style Birkin Bangs
“Style these bangs with a round brush and a ping-pong-ball-sized amount of Matrix Setter mousse. The hold will keep these bangs in place with a natural, lived-in finish,” advises Bataille.
It’s also important to maintain the lightness of the look as Jane did: “Make sure your bangs aren’t styled too round or ‘bubbled’ — you want them rather straight. Otherwise, it would look like another type of fringe,” adds Cardenas.
For that coveted undone texture that defines the look, try Sally Hershberger 24K Superiority Complex texturizing paste. On days when your hair and face feel particularly oily or if you skip a wash, keep an oil-absorbing product on hand, like Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Advanced Dry Shampoo.
What’s the Maintenance Level?
While Birkin bangs may look effortless, remember that all bangs require a bit of extra work to be styled each day to achieve the desired look. However, the payoff is worth it: “Birkin bangs, when done well, can absolutely transform your face with the right shape,” explains Cardenas.
Maintenance will also include “regular bang trims every few weeks to keep them at the right length,” adds Cardenas. Fortunately, when you’re ready to grow them out, this style makes the process easier. “These bangs are cut using a lighter technique with less weight at the ends, which makes them easier to grow out than other fringe styles,” concludes Bataille. “They simply blend into the hair afterward.”
