There are generally two popular types of bangs: full bangs that cover the forehead, such as blunt or wispy bangs, and side-parted bangs, such as loose waves or straight middle-parted bangs. To find out which type suits you best, follow these three steps.
Determine your face length and width
When choosing the right bangs, the first step is to observe the ratio of your face’s length and width. Then, depending on the advantages and disadvantages of your face shape, choose between full bangs that cover the forehead or side-parted bangs.
1. Longer than wide
If your face is longer than it is wide, your forehead will appear higher, and your hairline will typically be positioned higher up. In this case, full bangs that cover the forehead are the best choice as they can perfectly frame your face and balance out the proportions. The right length of bangs will also give you a youthful appearance.
2. Equal length and width
A face with roughly equal length and width usually has a shorter forehead, and choosing full bangs can make the face appear shorter and wider. Opting for a middle part can improve the proportions of your face, perfectly lengthening it while creating a slimming effect.
Take the example of Dilireba, who has a face with equal length and width. She often chooses a moderate side part with large waves or a middle part with straight, long black hair, which looks beautiful and harmonious. On the other hand, full bangs tend to make her facial features look ordinary.
Dilireba loses her ethereal beauty with full bangs.
Compare the widest points of your forehead and jaw
When deciding between full bangs and a middle part, in addition to considering the length of your forehead, the width of your forehead and jaw are also important factors.
1. Forehead and jaw of equal width
If your forehead and jaw have the same width, you likely have an oval face shape, which can pull off both types of bangs. Nana Ou-Yang is a perfect example; her well-proportioned face structure allows her to rock both full bangs and a middle part effortlessly. Full bangs give her a youthful and cute appearance, while a middle part exudes a more mature and elegant vibe.
Nana Ou-Yang’s versatile face suits all hairstyles.
2. Forehead wider than the jaw
If your forehead is wider than your jaw, opt for side-parted bangs. Take the example of Yang Mi, whose forehead appears wider with full bangs, creating a flattening effect on her face. Side-parted bangs improve this by adding length to the face.
3. Forehead narrower than the jaw
For those with a narrower forehead than jaw, full bangs are not ideal as they can make the face appear larger. A middle part not only elongates the face but also helps to conceal a wide jaw.
Consider your chin shape
There are three main chin shapes: pointed, angular, and round. In reality, a pointed chin is not very common, and most people have either a square or round chin. Therefore, when choosing a hairstyle, you must select one that flatters your chin shape.
1. Pointed and round chin
Women with oval faces often have a more pointed chin, and this face shape suits both full and side-parted bangs. If you have a round face and chin, however, slightly wispy full bangs can be a good choice.
Round faces and chins are complemented by wispy full bangs.
2. Angular chin
A woman with an angular chin will have a very three-dimensional jawline. However, a potential drawback is that it can make the chin appear very short, and full bangs can accentuate this. Compared to full bangs, a middle part is a better choice for those with an angular and wide chin, as it not only shapes the chin but also makes the face appear smaller.