Short bangs paired with long hair create a striking contrast that can frame your face beautifully, add a touch of edginess, and highlight your facial features. Whether you’re aiming for a chic, modern look or something more playful, short bangs can complement long hair in numerous ways. This guide will walk you through various methods to style short bangs with long hair, ensuring that you achieve the perfect look that suits your personality and style.
Understanding Short Bangs
What Are Short Bangs?
Short bangs, often referred to as baby bangs, are a type of fringe that is cut above the eyebrows. Unlike traditional bangs that usually touch or cover the eyebrows, short bangs sit much higher on the forehead, offering a more daring and eye-catching look. These bangs can vary in thickness, bluntness, and texture, allowing for a variety of styling options.
Why Choose Short Bangs with Long Hair?
Short bangs create a sharp contrast with long hair, adding a unique twist to your hairstyle. They draw attention to your eyes and can give a fresh, youthful appearance. When styled correctly, they can also soften strong facial features or add structure to softer ones.
2. Preparing Your Hair
Washing and Conditioning
Start by washing your hair with a shampoo that suits your hair type. Follow with a conditioner to ensure your hair is smooth and manageable. Pay extra attention to the ends of your long hair to prevent split ends, as these can detract from the overall look. Use a lightweight conditioner on your bangs to avoid weighing them down.
Blow-Drying for Volume
After washing, blow-dry your bangs first. Use a round brush to lift the roots while drying to add volume. For long hair, blow-dry using a paddle brush or a round brush, depending on whether you want a straight or voluminous look. Ensure your hair is completely dry before you start styling, as damp hair can lead to frizz and lack of hold.
Heat Protection
Always apply a heat protectant spray before using any hot tools. This will shield your hair from damage and keep it looking healthy. Focus on both your bangs and the lengths of your hair to ensure even protection.
Styling Techniques for Short Bangs with Long Hair
Straight and Sleek
Step 1: Flat Iron Your Bangs
To achieve a sleek look, use a flat iron on your bangs. Gently glide the flat iron through your bangs, keeping the iron close to your scalp for a polished finish. Avoid over-straightening, as you want your bangs to have a slight natural curve rather than lying completely flat.
Step 2: Straighten Your Long Hair
Straighten the rest of your hair with a flat iron, working in small sections. This will ensure a smooth, even look that complements your sleek bangs. For added shine, use a serum or shine spray as a finishing touch.
Step 3: Finish with a Light-Hold Hairspray
To keep your bangs in place without making them stiff, use a light-hold hairspray. Spray from a distance to avoid clumping and ensure a natural, soft finish.
Tousled and Textured
Step 1: Add Texture to Your Bangs
If you prefer a more relaxed, tousled look, start by adding texture to your bangs. Use a texturizing spray or a small amount of styling cream, applying it with your fingers. Twist small sections of your bangs to create a piecey effect.
Step 2: Create Waves in Your Long Hair
For the long hair, use a curling iron or a wand to create loose waves. Wrap large sections of hair around the barrel, holding for a few seconds before releasing. Once all sections are curled, run your fingers through your hair to break up the curls and create a more natural wave.
Step 3: Use a Sea Salt Spray
Finish with a sea salt spray to enhance the texture and give your hair a beachy, undone look. This product will add volume and hold without weighing your hair down.
Side-Swept Bangs
Step 1: Part Your Bangs to the Side
For a more classic look, part your short bangs to the side. Use a fine-tooth comb to create a deep side part, sweeping your bangs across your forehead.
Step 2: Smooth with a Flat Iron
Smooth your side-swept bangs with a flat iron to keep them in place. Glide the flat iron in the direction of the sweep to ensure they lie flat against your forehead.
Step 3: Style Your Long Hair
Style the rest of your long hair in loose waves, straightened, or in a low ponytail to complement the side-swept bangs. This versatile look works well for both casual and formal settings.
Braided Bangs
Step 1: Section Your Bangs
Start by sectioning off your bangs from the rest of your hair. Clip the long hair back to keep it out of the way.
Step 2: Begin Braiding
Take a small section of your bangs and begin a small French braid or a regular three-strand braid, depending on your skill level. Continue braiding across your forehead, securing the braid with a small, clear elastic or a bobby pin at the side of your head.
Step 3: Style the Long Hair
Let the rest of your long hair fall naturally or style it in a loose updo or ponytail. The braided bangs add a touch of elegance and keep hair off your face, making this a great option for hot days or special events.
See Also: How To Style Short Bangs With Flat Iron
Half-Up, Half-Down
Step 1: Separate Your Bangs
Leave your bangs out and separate the top half of your long hair from the bottom half. Clip the bottom half out of the way.
Step 2: Create a Half-Up Style
Gather the top half of your hair and secure it with a hair tie or a stylish clip. You can opt for a simple ponytail, a bun, or a twist, depending on your preference.
Step 3: Add Finishing Touches
Let your bangs fall naturally, framing your face. You can keep them straight, texturized, or slightly curled, depending on the overall look you’re going for. Add a touch of hairspray to hold the style in place.
Top Knot with Bangs
Step 1: Gather Your Hair into a Top Knot
Gather all your long hair into a high ponytail on the crown of your head. Twist the ponytail into a top knot and secure it with a hair tie and bobby pins.
Step 2: Leave the Bangs Out
Let your short bangs fall naturally onto your forehead. This style creates a chic, modern look with a balance of structure and softness.
Step 3: Optional: Add Accessories
Add a stylish hair accessory, like a headband or decorative pins, to elevate the look. This style works well for casual outings or formal events, depending on the accessories you choose.
Additional Tips for Maintaining Short Bangs with Long Hair
Regular Trims
Short bangs require regular trims to maintain their length and shape. Depending on how fast your hair grows, you may need to trim your bangs every 2-4 weeks. You can either visit a salon or do minor touch-ups at home with a pair of sharp scissors.
Dry Shampoo for Bangs
Bangs tend to get oily faster than the rest of your hair. Keep a dry shampoo on hand to refresh your bangs in between washes. Apply a small amount at the roots and comb through to absorb excess oil.
Experiment with Accessories
Hair accessories can add flair to your style. Headbands, clips, and barrettes can be used to hold your bangs in place or to add a decorative element to your hairstyle.
Nighttime Care
To keep your bangs looking fresh, consider wearing a silk or satin scarf to bed. This will prevent your bangs from getting flattened or frizzy overnight. You can also lightly pin them back with bobby pins to maintain their shape.
Conclusion
Styling short bangs with long hair offers endless possibilities, whether you’re going for a sleek and polished look or something more textured and playful. The key is to experiment with different styles and find what works best for your face shape, hair texture, and personal style. With regular maintenance and the right products, you can keep your bangs looking fabulous and complement your long hair beautifully.