Think of cool girl hairstyles and, more often than not, they’ll feature a fringe – whether it’s thick, swooshy fringes that skim eyelashes, like Alexa, soft, sleek side fringes that frame the face, like Brigitte Bardot, or slashed, blunt bangs which emphasise cheekbones and bring out bone structure, like Jessica Biel, a fringe is as versatile as it is chic.
The main problem is, once you’ve committed, fringes can be hard to grow out. If you shudder at the thought of a solid six months stuck with a wonky quiff, rest assured, there are some excellent ways to transition your way to fringe freedom that don’t compromise on style. Here’s how.
1. Accessories are the way forward
You’re in luck, because accessories are in – which is great news for longer-length fringes. “As it gets longer, you can reposition with pins and grips,” says top hairdresser, Adam Reed. Try giving pearl clips a go, like this embellished style from Accessorize, £10, star grips, like these pretty ones from Oliver Bonas, £9.50, or an embroidered headband, like this cheetah print style from Anthropologie, £28.
2. Ask your hairdressers for a softer shape
If you’ve decided to grow out your fringe, start by asking your hairdressers to cut in a softer shape that will grow out more seamlessly. “The first step of action is to soften up the line of the fringe and add texture,” says expert hairdresser, Hollie Rose Clarke. “I’ll then add in some face-framing so the fringe looks more like Bridget Bardot or Alexa Chung’s style. This is the perfect shape to grow your fringe out,” she adds.
3. Try different styles
Rather than thinking of the journey between fringe to no-fringe as the awkward in-between stage, make the most of each length and have a play around. “Use this time to experiment with different shaped fringes, such as a side-swept fringe when it gets long enough,” says Adam.
4. Braid it
For the days you want your fringe off your face and out of the way, try a braid. “Braids can help you hide your fringe and are especially good if you’re working out or on holiday and can’t be bothered to style it,” says Hollie. And, if you’re stuck for inspiration, we’ve put together an edit of the prettiest fishtails and milkmaid braids to get you going. To keep them in place, Hollie recommends Ouai’s Matte Pomade.
5. Add texture
Adding texture will a) make your fringe easier to style and b) keep it off your face more if you fancy wearing it down. If you’re not entirely happy with the shape and length while growing it, the best thing to do is to add some oomf with some styling products. “IGK Down & Out Dirty Spray, £25, is awesome,” says Hollie. “It gives the perfect hold thanks to its next-day, gritty feel (kind of like a dry shampoo and sea salt spray in one). Think Kate Moss 90s party girl texture in a can,” she says. “Mist it into your roots, then twist your fringe away from your face and pin it.” Meanwhile, Adam swears by the Percy & Reed Perfectly Perfecting Wonder Balm, £18, “to provide light hold,” for styling, and the Abundantly Bouncy Volumising Mousse, £12.50, “to add volume.” Sorted.
