Unpopular Opinion: Anyone Can Rock Micro Bangs

Micro bangs, a.k.a. baby bangs, have been "trending" for at least half a decade. We all remember Zendaya's homage to Joan of Arc at the 2018 Met Gala. In the same year, Emma Watson posed with an ultra-cropped fringe on the cover of Vogue. More recently, celebs like Doja Cat, Florence Pugh, and Zoe Kravitz have shown up on red carpets with the same blunt 'do.

Unlike "regular" bangs that lightly graze your eyebrows, micro bangs are much shorter. They typically fall an inch or so above the brow. Some might even have them sitting just a few inches shy of their hairline. These bangs are edgy, fresh, and almost too cool.

That's probably why all the "It" girls are rocking them. In fact, Audrey Hepburn – one of Hollywood's original "It" girls – sported baby bangs all through the booming '50s. They became integral to her signature (iconic! legendary!) look. Can you imagine her without them?  

Suffice it to say, these retro-inspired bangs are here to stay. You may as well give them a whirl and see how they look on you, right? But before you get to chopping, it helps to know what to do with such a statement-making style. Save yourself the buyer's remorse and all that. As bold as they are, micro bangs can totally work for everyone. Just make sure you follow these tips!

Admit it: you were just about to look up "how to cut micro bangs" to DIY them. Drop the scissors! If it's your first time going for this style of fringe, you're better off seeking the expertise of a pro.

You might get away with trimming them at home for upkeep (who has time for monthly visits?), but the initial chop will be a delicate process. Hairstylists have the tools and techniques to give you what you want – let them take the reins. However, that doesn't mean you can't help them out.

Show up to your appointment with pegs or inspiration photos relevant to your hair type, face shape, and desired finish. For example, Florence Pugh might be a good reference if you have a heart-shaped face. Want your bangs more choppy and less prim? Bella Hadid is your girl.

That's right: there's no one way to wear this fringe. Some experts say the sharp, straight-across style is best for those with slick, straight hair, but other variations can be more flexible.

If you have wavy or curly hair, lean into your natural texture by twisting the bangs into well-defined ringlets. Think FKA Twigs or Yara Shahidi. Do you have fuller hair? Consider going short all around with a pixie cut punctuated with a choppy yet chic fringe, like Zoe Kravitz. Or are your strands a little finer? Lean into their wispiness a la Audrey Hepburn. You can sweep them to the side for more movement!

Ultimately, your bangs are just one component of your hairdo. Work with your hairstylist to determine how your overall cut should look. They might suggest layers to frame your face better and help your fringe flow with the rest of your hair.

Bangs will always require extra time and care to maintain, no matter how "effortless" some might look. That's why you should ask yourself if you're ready to commit. Styling bangs takes practice, especially if you want them to look as good as they did when you first got them.

One way to simplify the process is to start with freshly washed hair. Use the Sunsilk Smooth & Manageable Shampoo for smoother, easy-to-style strands that smell good, too. Meanwhile, the Sunsilk Expert-Perfect Straight Shampoo will straighten your locks even without tools. Since bangs sit over your forehead, they tend to get greasy faster – washing them helps manage that problem.

Styling methods will vary depending on the kind of micro fringe you end up getting. Ask your hairstylist for tips specific to your hair! But, in general, a blow dryer or flat iron paired with a round brush should help keep your bangs in place. Then, set it with a light spritz of texturizing spray and you’re good to go!

Micro bangs are an easy way to edge up your look without changing too much about your current hairstyle. Who says they're only for celebs and high-fashion models? You can rock 'em, too. Keep this game plan in mind, and you won't regret giving this bold cut a shot.