From the return of the mullet to the prevalence of pixie cuts, women are increasingly taking more of a risk with their style and turning their back on traditional notions of what beautiful hair should necessarily look like. And now, with actress Zendaya stepping out at the Paris Couture Fashion Week 2024 sporting a new micro fringe, it's looking likely that this will be another striking trend we'll be seeing more of.
The Appeal of the Micro Fringe
While hair is the accessory you never take off, the fringe frames the face and makes it the centre of attention, says Sharon Malcolm from Sharon Malcolm Hairdressing, Newtownards. “A micro fringe as worn by Zendaya at Paris Couture Fashion Week is perfect for those who are open minded to try something a little bit different – but want to remain beautiful. A micro fringe is a great way to make a statement but it isn’t for the faint hearted."
Clients who like to change thier look up frequently should also be wary of micro fringes, with Luke Hawkins from Saco Studio Goring-on-Thames noting: "You can’t sweep it to the side so it’s a commitment. While anyone is free to experiment with their hair, I think this look suits ovals and elongated face shapes."
This is something Beverly C, Goldwell Guest Artist, agrees with, adding: "The first thing to consider is that a micro fringe is very much an integral part of a cut, so you can’t separate it from the overall look. Will it suit everyone? No – but it makes a strong statement when it suits." Beverly also notes that while a micro fringe can be paired with any hair colour, generally the darker the hair the stronger the fringe will look in appearance – something it's worth highlighting to the client in your chair.
Joseph Wielgomas, Master Stylist and Colour Director at Luke Benson Hair, agrees, explaining: "In my eyes a micro fringe would always work well with a monotone colour and with a slightly darker root to show a little dimension. It tends to work better on thicker hair, although if you wanted the look with finer hair, just take the section a little deeper towards the high point of the head to add more density."
However, your client's confidence isn't the only factor to consider when cutting a micro fringe – with Caspar Finch, Creative Consultant and Goldwell Guest Artist also highlighting that hair density must play a role. He also adds: "When cutting a micro fringe the hairline shape and any growth patterns should be the first things to look for; a cowlick isn’t the end of the micro fringe journey, however it will require more styling, so you'll have to educate your client on this."
Educate Your Clients
As with many new styles, it's important to educate your client on the best way to style their hair when they're home. Joseph shares the advice he would offer to a client, explaining: "As with all fringes, it all depends on the design result. I would always start by using a flat brush to smooth out any of the hairline growth patterns, blowdry side-to-side to achieve a flat root area and finish off with the irons or a small round brush and a humidity spray to hold the style."
Meanwhile, Ben Brazzo, Artistic Director, Jack & The Wolfe, says: “I love the idea of applying a lightweight mousse and letting your micro fringe air dry, giving it an effortless feel and enhancing natural texture, or take a small round brush and create a smoother feel. It’s very versatile I would encourage clients to play with products.”
