The Best Ways to Style Bangs With Shoulder-Length Hair

When you have a bob or a pixie cut, the hairstyle itself becomes an instant conversation starter. Whether it’s a laid-back French bob or a choppy pixie crop, these statement looks often require minimal effort for maximum impact.

Meanwhile, medium and shoulder-length hair tends to be easier to maintain overall—though if you’re craving a refresh, consider adding bangs to the mix.

Mihaela Vatafu, director stylist at Taylor Taylor London, agrees. “Bangs can enhance medium-length hair, softening features and offering versatile styling options,” she tells ELLE. Incorporating face-framing pieces can bring out your best features—when done right, they instantly elevate an otherwise classic hairstyle.

How to Style Bangs for Shoulder-Length Hair

First, figure out the best bang length for your lifestyle, face shape, and hair type. If you’re unsure about committing or prefer something low-maintenance, try longer curtain bangs à la Daisy Edgar-Jones or Jenna Ortega. They’re more forgiving—you can tuck them behind your ears when needed.

A full fringe like Jane Birkin’s is eternally chic and of-the-moment, while Rihanna’s side-swept bangs prove that a deep part is forever.

Next, Vatafu recommends blow-drying your bangs to add volume and keep them fresh. Use a round brush and a blow-dryer, or try one of the excellent hot brushes available now. Set them with a light mist of hairspray to extend the style for a few days. For second- or third-day hair, re-style with a quick mist of water. To finish, run a tiny amount of texturizing product through your lengths for added edge.

“To maintain the shape, schedule regular trims,” Vatafu advises. That frequency depends on your hair growth, but stylists typically recommend every six to eight weeks. Ideally, get it done professionally—but in a pinch, you can DIY (just consult ELLE’s guide to cutting your bangs first).

How to Choose the Best Bangs for Your Hair Type and Face Shape

There are no hard rules, but Vatafu offers some helpful guidelines. “Light, jagged bangs add movement to fine hair without weighing it down,” she says. On the flip side, “blunt cuts help create structure on thicker strands.”

For curls and coils, always work with your natural pattern. “Layered or curtain styles blend beautifully with curly textures,” she suggests.

“Round faces usually suit long, side-swept bangs, which help elongate the face,” Vatafu adds. For square or angular bone structures, she recommends a softer bang to balance stronger jawlines. If your face is oval or heart-shaped, most styles can be tailored to suit you—it’s really about what feels most sustainable and comfortable for you.

The Bang Inspiration You Need for Shoulder-Length Hair