We love a good and classic throwback, so when we got wind that the 60s chic, cool and iconic Birkin Bangs are making a comeback, we went directly to the experts for the ins and outs. Enter Birkin Bangs…
What are Birkin Bangs?
Originating from the singer, actress and style queen, Jane Birkin who sadly died at the age of 76 on Sunday 16 July 2023, Birkin Bangs are the ultimate, laidback fringe with an effortlessly cool French vibe, cut above the eyebrows and longer at the temples. “With wispy ends, this is a gorgeous face-framing alternative to a more blunt, structured version of the fringe,” says Leonardo Rizzo of Sanrizz, Guildford. “The result is something that suits almost everyone and grows out beautifully, making this a lower maintenance option for clients.”
And as the style suits various face shapes – especially oval or heart shaped faces – all your clients can live their Birkin dreams. “They can be adapted for straight or wavy hair, allowing versatility,” Melissa Timperley, Founder of Melissa Timperley, Manchester, tells us.
It's all about technique
When creating Birkin Bangs, it’s all about the point cutting technique. “This involves cutting the bangs at an angle with vertically held scissors, resulting in soft, textured edges that blend seamlessly,” says Melissa.
Andrew Minarik, Indola UK Ambassador adds: “Section a deep triangle at the front of the hair, from the outside of eyes and back to one third of way to the top of the head. Split this into three diagonal sections, and for each section lift the hair and pull back towards the crown and point cut across. Once you have the main shape, freehand texture cut to a length between the eyebrows and centre eyes making sure there are no sharp edges to this fringe.”
But as the style requires to be slightly adapted depending on face shape, what exactly should you consider when creating this look on clients? “I’d stay close to the brow-line, knowing exactly where the wispy ends should land for maximum suitability,” Leonardo tells us. “Take the weight out of the ends to give it that cool, undone look that blends back into the hair with ease.”
Products make perfect
As this style is all about the tousled look, the aim is for something that looks undone rather than too polished. Which is why it’s important to use the right products. “Lightweight texturising spray adds volume and enhances that tousled look,” Melissa says.
And it’s all about getting that blow-dry right. “You need to blow-dry the bangs out using a small, round brush to get a little bit of lift but ultimately a smooth finish,” says Leonardo. “A small amount of mousse will help hold in place and dry shampoo is a saviour in between hair washes.”
Feeling nostalgic and looking for more classic looks that have stood the test of time? Check out 90s nostalgia The C Cut.
Main feature image courtesy of Melissa Timperley.
