If the idea of a full fringe gives you war flashbacks to that awkward grow-out phase (DW, we've all been there), allow us to introduce your new low-maintenance love affair: bottleneck bangs. Part shaggy curtain, part soft swoop, this face-framing fringe is the secret to looking effortlessly put-together – even when you're three days deep into dry shampoo. Plus, it's the haircut that somehow flatters everyone (yes, really)!
With expertise from Tom Smith, hairstylist and co-founder of AEVUM salon, we're breaking down exactly what makes bottleneck bangs the new 'it' fringe; from what the style actually is, to who it suits best, and how to nail that perfect blow-dry at home.
So, if an autumn hair refresh is calling your name, you know what to do... Your salon inspo awaits!
What are bottleneck bangs?
According to Tom Smith, bottleneck bangs are "a super flattering and face-framing fringe shape that can be customised to suit various face shapes." The look starts shorter between the brows, curving down to a longer length at the cheekbones – creating a silhouette that mimics the shape of a bottle. It's the perfect option for those who want the softness of a fringe without the high-maintenance upkeep of a blunt bang.
Tom adds that the gentle curve makes them especially great for anyone who loves a little movement and framing around the face, particularly when their hair is pulled up.
Who is best suited to bottleneck bangs?
Tom explains that straight, wavy, or slightly curly hair types are best suited to bottleneck bangs, with wavy hair being the ideal match. "The natural bend of wavy hair really facilitates that effortless, face-framing shape," he says. The cut can work with a range of hair lengths – from a chin-grazing bob to extra-long layers – but shines brightest when paired with soft texture and fluid layering rather than heavy, blunt ends.
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That said, if you have tight curls or coils, achieving the precise bottleneck shape can be trickier without significant heat styling. However, Tom does note that a longer variation can still deliver a beautiful, face-framing silhouette that softens and flatters the features without needing to be overly styled.
How are bottleneck bangs best styled?
For styling, Tom suggests starting by blow-drying the fringe down and forward onto the face using your fingertips or a flat brush. "Then, switch to a small round brush – or the round attachment on your Dyson Airwrap – to lift and turn the bangs out and under toward the nose," he explains.
Once dry, set the air to cool, hold the fringe down near your hairline with a flat palm, and direct the airflow back toward your face to set the ends flicking softly toward the ears. Finally, "use your fingertips to shape them into place and finish with a light mist of dry shampoo or a dusting of styling powder to add control and remove any excess fluffiness," Tom says. Et voilà! There you have the perfect bottleneck bang blowout!
Ahead: 6 bottleneck bang inspo pics to take to your next salon appointment – thank us later.
Bottleneck bangs inspo
Lia Mappoura (she/her) is the Beauty Writer at Cosmopolitan UK, with over four years of experience reporting across the brand's print, social, video and digital platforms. Lia covers everything from emerging trend analysis to viral celebrity hair and makeup moments, making her an expert at spotting the season’s next big beauty look (before it takes over social media feeds).
In 2025, she was named The Rising Media Star at the Love Perfume Awards with The Perfume Shop, recognised for her outstanding digital fragrance content and for building genuine authority within the space. She is passionate about challenging outdated beauty stereotypes, championing inclusive representation in beauty, and educating readers on the trends, products and conversations shaping the industry today. Follow her on Instagram or find her on LinkedIn.
