7 Ways to Avoid Awkward Grown-Out Bangs

The most natural progression from blunt bangs is a soft, romantic curtain bang. “Part [your bangs] in the center and wear trendy curtain bangs,” says Izquierdo. “I call them ‘Birkin bangs,’ inspired by French icon Jane Birkin.” If you have some experience cutting your own bangs, try snipping in the middle to create that swooping effect. “The first thing I would suggest would be snipping into the center of the bangs to create a separation and what’s called a curtain bang or a 1960s bang,” adds McLaren.

When in doubt, pin it up. “There are some great accessories, like Bobby pins, to keep the bangs out of the face,” says McLaren. “Spritz a little hairspray to keep them in place.” To get the hair really smooth, pick up an unused toothbrush and eliminate flyaways. “Spray some hairspray on [the toothbrush],” adds Izquierdo. “Part your hair and accessorize with two creaseless pins—one on each side to secure the bangs out of the face.

Ask your hairstylist to camouflage your bangs with some face-framing layers. “Adding face-framing layers to the front hairline helps blend bangs during the growth phase,” Izquierdo says.

Contrary to what Gen Z thinks, side parts come in handy for growing out bangs. Izquierdo suggests creating a deep side part and using some heat to set. “Train your bangs to lay in the direction you want,” he says. “Blow-dry them to set the shape and direction of your hair.”

Yes, a sleek pony is still possible with bangs. The trick? Lots of hair gel. “Using styling gel, push the bangs back into a slick ponytail,” advises McLaren. Work the product into strands and use a fine tooth comb to smooth them back. Secure with a tight elastic and set with hairspray to tame flyaways.

Go ahead, get experimental. “For an adventurous look, try creating a 1920s wave or a pompadour using a texture spray,” says McLaren. Pro tip: a pompadour works best with lots of volume and curls.

Baby braids are all the rage this fall and blend grown-out bangs seamlessly. For a middle part, try two small braids on each side. For a side part, create a side braid and secure with bobby pins. “Braiding bangs into your style or an updo is an easy way to secure bangs during the grow-out phase,” Izquierdo says.