Getting the Best Bangs for Your Buck

When it comes to bangs, the possibilities are endless.  They can be used to accent any cut or style, and can be cut in lots of different ways.  So with all the options available, how do you know which style of bangs is right for you?

It is easy to be intimidated about adding a bang, or fringe, to your hair.  You may not know which style would best suit your features.  You may have had a fringe in the past that wasn't the best fit for your haircut. Or, you may be afraid that if you don't like it, you'll be stuck growing it out.

We've made it a little easier for you by putting together a list of questions to ask yourself when adding or updating your fringe.  These tips, along with a consultation from your stylist, can ensure that you get the best bangs for your buck.

1. What is your face shape?

When choosing a fringe, your options may depend on your face shape.  Oval faces can wear any style, so your options are open.  If your face is square, oblong, or heart-shaped, avoid a fringe that is going to put too much weight on your forehead, as this can draw attention to the wider areas of your face.
 Your best option may be to go with a longer, side-swept bang.  If your face shape is round, diamond, or triangle, then you are better off with a fringe that will appear wider around the temples.  In this case, you can add a straight bang with length left on each side to soften the edges.  If you're having trouble determining your face shape, try this handy guide.

2. What is the texture and density of your hair?

You're going to want to choose a fringe that complements the way your hair naturally falls.  If your hair is very thick and coarse, avoid going with a blunt fringe, as this will make your bangs heavy and difficult to maintain.  A softer, layered fringe is more appropriate.  If your hair is fine, then feel free to experiment with a heavy fringe, as it can bring more volume toward the front of your haircut.  Some types of bangs require more maintenance than others.  Which brings us to our next question:

3. How committed are you to styling your hair?

If your hair is curly or wavy, then this is probably the single biggest factor in determining what kind of fringe to go with.  Don't go with something that will require styling if you are not going to put in the time to style it.  If you are a wash-and-go kind of girl, then keep your fringe long in order to weigh your curls down.  Have a fringe cut too short and your curls will fluff right up.  however, if you do take the time to style your hair every day, then you have more freedom as to what kind of fringe you can go with.

4. How do you want to personalize it?

Once you've narrowed down the basic shape and length of fringe that you want, you can start asking yourself how you want to personalize it.  This is when you consider the overall effect that you are going for.  Are you going for a dramatic look with a heavy, blunt fringe, or a softer, textured fringe to accent your cut?  Do you want shorter bangs for a high fashion urban look, or longer bangs for a more bohemian look?  Do you want something neat and clean, or choppy and messy?

Choose a style that fits your personality.  The possibilities are endless!  For more inspiration, check out TotalBeauty.com's gallery of the best celebrity bangs.  And if you're still not sure what's best for you, just remember, your stylist is your best friend, and don't be afraid to try something new!