Style Hair Side-Swept Bangs Are Trending Again—Here Are 10 Types to Try This Season Endless styling possibilities await. By Marisa Petrarca Published on August 15, 2023 Trending Videos Close this video player Photo: Vasilina Popova/Getty Images Whether you're a fan or a skeptic, the resurgence of side-swept bangs is hard to ignore. However, there's no need for apprehension—even if you regretted embracing the side bangs trend during the early 2000s—because today's take on the trend offers more versatility than ever before. “Side-swept bangs—or side bangs—are where the front section of hair is cut shorter than the rest and swept to one side of the face,” says Shiva Tavakoli, Founder of JOON Haircare. “They are angled diagonally across the forehead, following the natural curve of the hairline. They can vary in length and can flatter a variety of different face types''. While side-swept bangs are nothing new, they have certainly evolved through the years. "They first became popular in the 1960s and 1970s," Tavakoli continues. "During his time, the mod and hippie styles were in fashion, so the bangs were typically long and straight to go along with the rest of the hair." Conversely, in the ‘80s, side-swept bangs had a lot of wave or curl to them to match the voluminous or ‘bigger hair’ of the time,” the pro adds. Conversely, the '90s saw side-swept bangs harmoniously blend with layered or textured haircuts. Tavakoli points to the iconic 'Rachel' haircut famously flaunted by Jennifer Aniston's character in Friends. Fast forward to the 2000s and 2010s, and “people began to make the side-swept bang their own,” says the pro.“It was seen in various lengths, textures and hair cuts, such as pixie cuts to longer layered cuts.” The present-day technique for flaunting side-swept bangs isn’t much different; it involves personalizing them to effortlessly harmonize with your chosen hairstyle. Below, we've curated ten side-swept bang hairstyles suitable for all lengths and cuts—perfect for inspiration before your next salon visit. 01 of 10 Curtain Bangs Curtain bangs dominate social media feeds, so you're likely already familiar. If not, let us introduce you: Curtain bangs are a variation of side-swept bangs that are “parted in the middle and swept to the sides, creating a 'curtain' effect that frames the face,” explains Tavakoli. 02 of 10 Chic Bob Chic bobs are another trend on the rise. When combined with side-swept bangs, they add movement and exude an air of sophistication. 03 of 10 Long Layers Side bangs aren’t limited to short lengths. Tavakoli suggests them for those who have—or plan to get—long layers, as seen here, for how seamlessly they enhance the overall style. 04 of 10 Edgy Pixie Looking to elevate your pixie cut? According to Tavakoli, incorporating side-swept bangs is a surefire method to achieve a bolder look. 05 of 10 Layered Shag The hairstylist behind this image said her client "was bored of feeling one length and too heavy and wanted something in between a shag cut and a wolf cut." The end result showcases "choppy side-swept bangs" for a wonderfully trendy touch, says Tavakoli. 06 of 10 Elevated Top Knot Celebrity hairstylist Larry Sims perfectly complemented Gabrielle Union’s sophisticated top knot with side-swept bangs. And there's more: he styled a long, straight stand of hair that extended from her bun and straight over side swoop, landing just above her shoulder. 07 of 10 Micro Bangs Dare to go short like Zoë Kravitz? Her side-swept micro bangs by hairstylist Nikki Nelms, are nothing short of iconic. The pro put the actress's bangs on full display and secured the remainder of her hair into a sleek bun. 08 of 10 Deep Side-Swept Bangs Yearning for a little drama? Take inspo from Rowan Blanchard’s deep-parted hairstyle by celebrity hairstylist Sylvia Wheeler. Her fringe sweeps across her entire forehead for a look that’s classic yet statement-making. 09 of 10 Swept-Away Bangs Tavakoli suggests adding accessories—like a pin or headband—into the mix. A perfect example is celebrity hairstylist Laura Polko, who adorned Sydney Sweeney's hair with a Prada hairpin. She tells Real Simple that the key to the look is to focus on the bangs first, blow-drying them with a round brush and, once styled, secure them with a styling clip to maintain their placement while completing the rest of the hair. 10 of 10 Side-Swept Updo Love an updo? Maybe Mabel’s side-swept style is just what you've been searching for. The look—brought to life by celebrity hairstylist Rio Sreedharan—spotlights two delicate strands of curls for an understated yet glamorous look. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit