Between straight across cuts and nostalgic side parts, bangs of all shapes and sizes are enjoying an extended moment in the spotlight. They made a reappearance both on the runway (from wearable iterations seen at Prabal Gurung to high-fashion finishes at Marc Cain) and on the red carpet at the 78th British Academy Film Awards, for which Pamela Anderson and Camila Cabello donned bangs—and, according to hairstylists, they’re fast becoming 2025’s breakout beauty trend.
But for anyone who hasn’t been blessed with naturally thick and luscious lengths, you might be wondering if bangs can work for your own tresses. Luckily, a softer trend is emerging, ticking both cool-factor and working perfectly for finer or thinner hair. Meet: wispy bangs.
What Are Wispy Bangs?
Away from traditional full bangs, wispy bangs are all about a feathered finish and light pieces of hair that frame the face; they look and feel less heavy than your classic bangs and far less chunky than curtain bangs. “The hair is feather cut rather than blunt cut and works well on long or short hairstyles,” shares Cos Sakkas, TONI&GUY’s Global Creative Director. They can work for anyone with the right cut and styling products, but especially for those with heart-shaped and round faces.
“Soft, effortless wispy bangs that have an undone yet polished look work well with various hair textures,” Sakkas adds. While they typically enhance thin and fine hair, you can also achieve the look if you have thick or straight hair and type 2 curls too.
How to Cut Wispy Bangs
“The key is to keep them light and feathery and blend seamlessly into the rest of your hairstyle,” notes Sakkas. “Your stylist will use the point of the scissor to add texture and remove any harsh lines. The aim is for it to be seamless rather than heavy and structured,” he adds.
As any hairstylist will remind you, the best port of call before cutting wispy bangs is to do your research beforehand—if you’re new to bangs, consider whether you’re ready for the upkeep and maintenance. Come prepared with a visual mood board and screenshot images to show to your hairstylist before your session.
Who Should Try Wispy Bangs?
Wispy bangs can work for everyone, depending on the desired finish and your natural hair type, but are a particular winner for anyone with fine and thin hair. “The idea is to be able to see your forehead through the hair, so it’s perfect for those with finer hair,” notes Sakkas.
“Heavy bangs can make hair look thinner, whereas wispy bangs will leave it looking lightweight,” he adds, emphasizing the importance of knowing what kind of aesthetic you want to achieve in the first place.
How to Style Wispy Bangs
As with any bangs hairstyle, it’s not the most low-maintenance of haircuts. A lot of the heavy lifting comes from the cut (and regular upkeep) of the fringe itself, but you will still require a few styling products. “As the cut is finer, it’s important not to overload your bangs with products,” warns Sakkas.
The Best Wispy Bangs Style Inspiration
Wispy Bangs for Thin Hair
If you’re experimenting with wispy bangs à la Pamela Anderson, Sakkas recommends letting your hair dry naturally or using a round brush and hairdryer to create a soft bend. “The key is to keep the hair lightweight and frizz-free, so a texture spray is a must too,” he shares.
Wispy Curtain Bangs
![london, england august 30 jenna ortega attends the photocall for beetlejuice beetlejuice at one marylebone on august 30, 2024 in london, england photo by gareth cattermolegetty images](https://cdn.statically.io/img/hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/wispy-bangs-updo-67b4b1a6daaca.jpg?crop=1xw:0.8334478966180918xh;center ""Beetlejuice Beetlejuice" - Photocall")
Jenna Ortega makes a good case for experimenting with a softer bangs and a messy updo.
Wispy Bangs for Long Hair
A strong look among street style goers this fashion week, wispy bangs and long lengths make for perfect bedfellows.
Wispy Wet-Look Bangs
For a high-fashion take on the trend, see the Haute Couture fashion week runways and street style goers who show how to modernize the look with a wet-look finish and high-shine strands.
Wispy Bangs with a Bob
Natural curls? You’ll need the right tools and products to perfect your bangs. “If your hair is wavy or textured, apply a small amount of a defining cream with a light hold,” shares Sakkas.
Wispy Full Bangs
One of the simplest ways to elevate your wispy bangs is via a low-slung ponytail. “Wispy bangs look great when you’re putting your hair up into a loose ponytail, and leaving the front out creates a softer, chic aesthetic,” agrees Sakkas.
Classic Wispy Bangs
As demonstrated by Bella Hadid, classic wispy bangs look effortlessly cool. Pro tip: use a Dyson Airwrap to cheat the look of the feathered, softer ends.
