Fringe benefits
Don’t go in for the chop without reading these top tips, says Katie wright
FANCYING a fringe for the first time? you’re not the only one.
“Fringes have seen a real revival as salons are back open,” says Adam Reed, hair stylist and UK editorial ambassador for L’oreal Professionnel. People are craving “something new and fresh, but still easy to achieve – this is what makes a fringe so appealing”.
Adam says that Seventiesinspired styles, as seen on the likes of Jameela Jamil, are a major trend: “The curtain fringe is, without doubt, one of the most versatile fringe styles, and the perfect choice if your fringe is now outgrown during lockdown and you’re not sure if you want to go back to a high-maintenance style that needs regular trimming.”
So, there are plenty of options for achieving a trendy and flattering ‘do, but it’s important to remember that not every fringe will suit every face.
1.
choose a fringe that suits Your face shape
“If you have never had a fringe before, the aim is to bring out your best features on your face, such as the eyes and cheekbones,” notes Belle cannan, cofounder of Salon Sloane.
Wondering if the curtain fringe is for you? “Heavy centred parted fringes with a curved shape look very cool, and the good news is they flatter most face shapes,” Belle says. “A side fringe flatters a square shaped face, especially if blended into a long layered hairstyle, adding a choppy texture.”
Adam says: “Round face shapes hairdresser-approved products for taming your tresses
1. L’oreal Professionnel Serie Expert Blow-dry Fluidifier, £11.59, Notino
2. L’oreal Professionnel Tecni.art Pli Shaper, £13.20, Lookfantastic
3. Christophe Robin Luscious Curl Cream with Flaxseed Oil, £27
4. Sisley The Cream 230, £70 lend themselves well to sweeping fringes that are a little longer and fall around the cheekbones, whereas oval face shapes may look to something that’s fuller and has a blunt style.”
2. consider Your hair length Not only do you want a fringe that flatters your face, you want it tailored to suit your overall hairstyle. “Short hair looks great with a fringe, as it makes fine hair look thicker and fuller, especially an asymmetric fringe side swept or a pixie haircut,” says Belle. “And a classic bob haircut looks great with a bold blunt fringe – it really draws attention to the eyes, it’s very French.”
3.
some fringes require more maintenance than others
A blunt fringe – cut just above your brows – can look very cool, but will require daily styling and regular trims to keep it looking neat and tidy. If you’re not prepared to put in the effort, you might want to stick to a more lowmaintenance style.
“Before cutting in a fringe, always discuss your maintenance plan,” says Adam. “If you are looking for something low-maintenance, a curtain fringe can be perfect.”
4.
You’ll need the right products
It may take a bit of time to get used to your new blow-drying routine, and you’ll need to invest in a few products to keep your fringe in pristine condition.
“Often, people will use heat to style and maintain their fringe, so ensure you have a full arsenal of heat protection to prevent damage and keep the hair in its best condition,” says Adam. “And ensure you also include a mask in your weekly routine.”
After washing your hair, always dry your fringe first, says Belle: “Apply products to the roots, and separate the fringe away from the rest of the hair. Take small sections and place the brush at the roots, directing the flow of the hairdryer from the roots to tips.”
5. discuss fringe options with Your stylist
“Before any style change, always have a thorough consultation with your stylist to discuss the best look for you, taking into consideration various details, from maintenance, to hair type and texture,” Adam says.