The Right Bangs for Every Face Shape

Question: Which bangs best flatter each face shape?
Answer: Say what you will about winter and its not-so-great effects on your skin, there's one thing the season is great for: bangs. No humidity, no sweat, no ruining your hair after jumping in the pool—and they'll grow out by summer if you're sick of them. Plus, don't we all want to start off the new year with a transformative look? Here, a quick guide to choosing the right fringe for your face.

Emma Stone's round shape is complemented by a side part and heavy bangs. Photo: Getty Images

If you have a round face: "Straight, blunt bangs are a big no for round faces—they accentuate fullness and shortness," says Jerome Lordet of Pierre Michel Salon in NYC. Instead, opt for thick (never wispy—they add even more softness), side-swept bangs that are cut or razored at a strong angle from short to long to create definition.

Alexa Chung's signature bangs parted down the center. Photo: Getty Images

If you have a long or square face: Long, heavy bangs that end mid-eyebrow work best (short bangs à la Beyoncé tend to pull the face down) and they look equally cool styled straight across as they do pushed to the side or parted down the middle.

Photo: Getty Images

If you have an oval face: Oval faces, like Jane Birkin's, are the most versatile shape. They look good with all parts and bangs, according to Lordet, but they can pull off the drama of heavy, blunt styles best of all.

Reese Witherspoon's feathered bangs flatter her heart-shaped face. Photo: Getty Images

If you have a heart-shaped face: The goal for those with heart-shaped faces is to balance out the thinner jawline with the wider forehead. Rather than full fringe, go for long, layered side bangs, which draw attention to the eyes, lips, and middle of the face. The shortest piece should hit at the eyebrow and the longest should end at the top of the cheekbones.