I’ve made no secret of my obsession with French-girl hair. There’s just something effortlessly chic about the strands of our continental fashion friends that I can only ever hope to replicate with my. own five-minute work hairstyles. However, I think there’s one style in particular that French girls lead the way in above all others: the fringe. A tricky thing to get right, fringes are notorious for being both high maintenance (in terms of regular trims and hair washing) and difficult to pull off. French women, however, seem to have discovered the perfect fringe formula, and trust me—it looks good every single time.
Their secret to fringe success? A center parting that separates their bangs into two sections. It works for all hair types, but the key to that effortless French vibe is allowing a bit of your forehead to shine through in the center. Keep scrolling for 8 of the best French-girl fringes around.
This combination of effortless updo perfectly-parted fringe just oozes French-girl energy.
Fuller bangs look equally cool in this subtly parted style.
A slightly grown-out fringe looks so relaxed paired with a longer hair length.
If you’ve just had a fringe cut in then simply push your strands to each side for a more laid-back feel.
Don’t think that bangs should only be worn with your hair down, the French-girl fringe comes into its own when teamed with a chic ponytail.
You don’t have to opt for a full-on fringe either—these barely-there bangs are so damn cute.
If in doubt, sweep your fringe to the side for instant French-girl appeal.
The ’90s curtain bangs are a modern take on the classic French fringe, and I’m very much here for it.
Bangs can require a little maintenance to look their best. Thankfully, this brush is suitable for all hair types—it’s particularly good for thick and curly strands—and is great for using for blow-drying your fringe into place.
Warm a little of this matte-finish hair clay between your fingertips then smooth through the ends of your fringe for that cool, piece-y finish.
This is French-girl hair in a bottle—just a couple of spritzes will deliver effortlessly chic vibes to even the most basic fringe.
A greasy fringe is never a good look, but bangs are prone to oiliness due to their constant contact with our forehead. This French pharmacy dry shampoo soaks up excess oil when you’re in-between washes.
This nourishing cream adds shine and moisture to hair while imparting that ‘lived-in’ look that we all seek.
This post originally appeared on Who What Wear UK.
