After the flash of the runways and the whirl of fashion week, one haircut tweak is standing out as the ultimate way to refresh your look without sacrificing length. Welcome to the era of the fringe. Specifically, we’re talking about the beloved curtain fringe and face-framing layers that turn a standard haircut into something editorial-worthy. If you’re thinking about a change, this is your moment: enter the season of the winter fringe.

Curtain Fringe in 2026

Why A Winter Fringe Feels So Right Now

There’s something deeply satisfying about a fresh fringe: it feels like a facelift for your hair, building structure and style around your face while preserving the length you love. And in 2025, it’s not about chopping off all your hair. It’s about adding dimension, personality and that coveted “I woke up like this” cool-girl vibe. 

 

 

Breaking Down The Curtain Fringe

When you hear “curtain fringe,” think effortless, soft-parted bangs that sweep away from the face, rather than a heavy, blunt cut across the forehead. It’s typically parted in the middle or slightly off-center, longer at the sides, and blends beautifully into the rest of your hair. This year, it’s been elevated in three notable ways:

  • Soft and wispy texture: Not heavy, not flat. These bangs are feathered and airy—think Birkin bangs.
     
  • Designed to grow out well: Because the sides are longer and the center is delicate, a curtain fringe transitions seamlessly if you decide to grow it out.
     
  • Length versatility: Whether your hair is long, mid-length or a bob, curtain bangs work. They’re one of the most adaptable fringe styles for 2025.
     

Face-Framing Layers 

Okay, so you’ve got the curtain fringe. But what if you added subtle face-framing layers too? These are extra bits of hair cut around the face that soften the jawline, cheekbones, and temple area, giving you instant style support. And in the context of winter, this combo feels especially apt: as we move into colder months, texture and movement matter more than ever (think cozy scarves, hats, hoods—your fringe and layers should hold up). 

 

Why This Change + Why Now

  • Minimal length lost: If you’re hesitant to go short, a fringe is the perfect mid-commitment move. It changes your look but keeps most of your hair intact.
     
  • Instant face lift: Fringes draw attention to your eyes and cheekbones, subtly re-shaping your framing without dramatic change.
     
  • Mega versatility: Curly? Straight? Fine? Thick? Curtain fringes and face-framing layers can be tailored to suit your texture and face-shape. .
     
  • Seasonally savvy: Winter means hats, higher collars, scarves—your hairstyle still needs to shine even with accessories. A fringe with layers gives you that edge.
     

 

How to Style & Maintain

Styling Tips:

  • Blow-dry your curtain fringe first using a round brush, sweeping the ends outward to create the soft part and movement.
     
  • Use a lightweight texturizing spray or mousse at the roots to give lift, especially if you have fine hair.
     

Maintenance Tips:

  • Trim every 4-6 weeks to maintain the soft shape.
     
  • Use anti-frizz or smoothing products, especially if your hair tends to dry out in colder air.
     
  • If you’re growing out a fringe, keep the sides slightly longer so it blends as it regrows—this is one of the benefits of curtain bangs.

 

 

Fringe-Friendly Products

 

OUAI Leave In Conditioner & Heat Protectant 

Heat protectant is always a must, and especially when you have a fringe to keep edges fresh and length as desired.  

Living Proof Full Dry Volume & Texture Spray

Add height and keep fringe in control with this texture spray, ideal before you leave the house and even to refresh next-day bangs.

 

 

 

Some of the products featured here may contain affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. All recommendations are based on personal use, stylist feedback, or product performance.