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The first time I heard the term “Birkin bangs,” I definitely thought they were going to be in some way associated with Birkin bags. Was I picturing how a hairdresser could cut a fringe into the shape of the iconic purse? Yes, I was. Did I ask my friend if this is what Birkin bangs are? Again, yes I did. We had a little laugh at my expense and then she explained what they were.
But I wasn’t exactly wrong, as Jane Birkin, who served as the inspiration for Hermès’ renowned Birkin bag, was the sole source of these textured bangs.
Birkin bangs are a type of fringe that is becoming increasingly popular. Named after the iconic actress, they are a flattering style for most face shapes and can be worn in a variety of ways.
In the 1960s, Jane was the star and her bangs were a little haphazard and never quite came together; they almost touched her eyelashes. They are sometimes referred to as “breezy,” practically air-dried and somewhat disheveled. Think cool, relaxed, and unpolished rather than direct or structured.
So, if you’re looking for a fresh, updated hairstyle to try, Birkin bangs might be the perfect option for you. One word of advice – and I know of what I speak – do not cut them yourself on an impulse because you don’t want to wait for a hair appointment and are going through some shit.
I have been there and it does not end well. In fact, it ends with crying and having to slink to your stylist with your tail between your legs about your butchered bangs.
What Are Birkin Bangs?
“Birkin bangs are characterized by their wispy, piecey look. Traditionally, they’re a bit longer and hit in that space between your eyebrows and your eyelashes, without being so long that they’d be considered curtain bangs (which typically stretch to mid cheek to chin-length),” says POPSUGAR.
“They’re not heavy bangs at all and are, in fact, sparse enough to expose the eyebrows despite being long enough to cover them,” Devin Toth, hairstylist at Salon SCK, tells POPSUGAR. “The bang section of your hair doesn’t originate that far away from your hairline — only an inch or so — and then extends in sparse gaps to the lowest arc of the brows.”
They’re cut in a piece-y fashion, and a stylist will traditionally use razors or thinning shears, which are scissors that have one blade with teeth and one blade without. This gives the desired textured look so your bangs aren’t in a straight line.
How To Get Birkin Bangs
This kind of bang is usually a little bit longer and doesn’t need a blunt cut. Request a textured, piecey fringe from your hairstylist. When you mention Birkin bangs, they will almost definitely understand what you mean. However, you can also ask your stylist for a fringe that is better suited to your face shape and hair type.
You can cut Birkin bangs yourself, but we strongly advise going to a hairdresser to get them. Don’t say we didn’t warn you (I warned you above); but, after all, it will grow back. You might also use a tutorial or practice on clip-in bangs. For individuals who aren’t as skilled at trimming their own fringe, it might be a safer option. But the safest bet is having it done by a professional at a salon.
How To Style Birkin Bangs
The beauty of Birkin bangs is that they are very versatile and can be worn with pretty much any hairstyle.
Though it seems carefree and effortless, Jane’s famous fringe does take some styling upkeep. This is especially true for people who have oily skin or hair. To keep your bangs free of oil at all times, you should invest in a decent dry shampoo.
The benefit of this bang style is that you don’t need to get frequent trims – they grow out without that awkward phase, since they’re already on the longer side.
Whether you wear your hair up or down, the soft, face-framing fringe adds an effortlessly undone look to your style. It looks like you’ve barely tried, and because they’re so easily styled, you don’t have to spend a ton of time on them!
“Birkin bangs are paired with a center part and are usually styled with a subtle effortless bounce — not a full-blown bump, but just picture soft and straight with a bend,” says Toth. “They’re almost clumpy, and flow with the cowlicks of the hair.”
To style them, Toth recommends towel-drying your hair and then using a round brush on the ends of your hair for definition. He then says to use a flat iron on your new Birkin bangs to de-fluff, saying, “Less is more.”
Do you love Birkin bangs or are you not a fringe fan? Tell us in the comments!
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