Babypang makes a comeback

What are baby bangs?

Baby bangs, in a way, are exactly what they sound like. Small, forehead-grazing fringe that sits up much higher than your average curtain or side-swept bang. These bangs typically sit about an inch to two inches away from your hairline and can be blunt, layered or choppy. The end result of a baby fringe is entirely up to what you and your stylist decide is best for your face shape.

It’s no surprise that baby bangs are gaining popularity again. With the advent of the shag haircut, a crop that looks especially good with bangs, more and more people are opting for mini fringes. But baby bangs actually look great on more than just shag. From bobs to long layers, mini fringes can add a layer of depth to your look, allowing you to change your overall look without making a huge change (they’re just bangs, they grow back).

Here’s how to get the look

If you’re ready to try a haircut for yourself, there are a few things to keep in mind. Bang trims will become a much more frequent need if you decide to stick with the style. Due to their extremely short nature, these bangs grow out quickly and can lose their shape depending on your texture and cut style. Additionally, mini fringes also require more daily attention for some. Those with unruly textures or cowlicks may find that they need to spend more time in front of the mirror smoothing their bangs to get them to lay right.

Baby bangs in the salon

We always recommend having your baby bangs cut in the salon. Because of how short this edge is, the margin of error is much larger. It can be easy to go too short. One second you’re not short enough, the next you’re almost at your hairline.

When you visit the salon for your first baby bang haircut, always plan to discuss your face shape and what flatters it, along with your existing hairstyle and how this may change the way it is cut. Because they come in many shapes and sizes, you may want something that frames the face and blends into face-framing layers. If you don’t like face framing, you might want something blunt and straight across. If you have a round face shape, steer clear of a rounded bang. Those with square face shapes should choose something choppy and less blunt. Ultimately, your stylist should consult and work with you before making the big splash.

Baby bangs at home

If you want to try your hand at baby bangs at home, there are a few factors to be aware of beyond what you would discuss with your stylist at the salon. First, always start with good shears and not kitchen shears. You need a sharp blade to make sure every hair is cut the first time so you don’t go back and hack your line.

Second, remember to relax your face. Many of us don’t realize that we are making a face when we look in the mirror. If you raise your eyebrows or pinch your forehead while concentrating, you’ll end up cutting your bangs to fit that face and not your relaxed expression. Finally, point-cutting is your friend. If anything feels too blunt, cut vertically into the circumference of your baby bangs to crush the ends and remove blunt edges. Just make sure you focus the scissors on the edges of your hair, and not too far up into the bang itself.

Baby Bang Inspiration

If you’ve made it this far and decided baby bangs are indeed for you, here are a few of our favorite ways to wear the hairstyle.

This article originally appeared on maneaddicts.com

#1 Long layers and crushed edges

Crushing the edge of your bangs can help the shorter length flow seamlessly into long, layered hair.

#2 Blunt baby

Blunt bangs are a beautiful thing because they look good on almost any hair texture – from super straight to super curly.

#3 Curly mini fringe

Speaking of curly hair, these bangs look great curly too. You don’t have to smooth and straighten them every day.

#4 Baby Bob

A bob and bangs is a sweet, romantic classic. No matter what type of bob you have, something about this combination makes you the mysterious French love interest that everyone wants.

#5 Shaggy Bangs

Shag is really one of the best hairstyles to pair with baby bangs. The choppy endless layers of the shag create a perfect contrast to the blunt, framed edges of a baby bang. Not to mention how seamlessly they flow into face-framing layers.

#6 Tapered and tight

Tapered baby bangs are one of our favorites. A tapered mini fringe can frame your face in a way that accentuates all your best features.

#7 Shaved sides

If you’re looking for a baby bangs cut with more impact, try shaving the sides of your head. The blunt lines created by the extended mini-fringe and undercut give off big punk rock vibes.

#8 Choppy baby bangs

Choppy baby bangs are the universally flattering mini bangs. This style with mini fringes seems to look good on almost any face shape. The super crushed ends help break up the harshness of the shorter length. If you are trying baby bangs for the first time, this is always a good option.