Growing Out Bangs: Four Ways to Style the In-Between Length

The awkward stage of growing out bangs is usually about placement, not length alone. The front pieces are long enough to fall into your eyes but too short to stay behind your ears. A change of part or one well-placed accessory can keep them comfortable without cutting them again.

Work with your natural growth pattern where possible. You may need a small amount of water, a comb, a light styling product and a couple of clips.

1. The side-swept clip

Make a slightly deeper side part than usual. Comb the fringe across the forehead and secure it just above the opposite temple with a slim barrette. If the ends stick out, mist them lightly and smooth them under the longer side hair before clipping. This works especially well when the fringe reaches the outer corner of your eye.

2. A soft middle-part sweep

Wet only the front section. Split it roughly in the middle, then direct each side away from the face while drying on low heat. A small round brush can give the ends a gentle bend; your fingers work if you want a looser shape. Let the hair cool in place before touching it. This encourages a curtain-like shape without requiring a new cut.

3. Two small twists

Part the front section where it naturally wants to separate. Take a narrow piece on one side, twist it away from the face and add a little hair from just behind the fringe. Secure the twist with a bobby pin above the ear. Repeat on the other side. Including a little longer hair gives each pin more to hold than the fringe alone.

4. A comfortable headband

Place a soft band a short distance behind the hairline rather than pushing every short piece straight back. Pull a few longer face-framing strands forward if you like a less severe shape. If the band slides, try one with a fabric or comb grip instead of tightening it against your scalp.

Keep the shape manageable

Use a little product rather than a heavy layer. Too much wax can make growing-out pieces separate into obvious strands. If the fringe keeps falling into your eyes, change the part or pin placement first. When you are ready for a trim, tell your stylist that you are growing it out; a small shape adjustment can blend the front into the rest of the haircut without taking you back to short bangs.