
When it comes to French style signifiers, there are some that immediately come to mind. Breton stripes is one, basket bags is another, and feline eyeliner flicks also have an undeniable je ne sais quoi about them. But when it comes to hair, there’s one style that feels more Gallic than the rest, and that’s long hair with fringe. Of course, the look isn’t just popular with the French, but there’s something about tumbling lengths offset with a sweeping fringe that feels very Parisian. Regardless of its origin, it’s a hairstyle that looks incredibly chic and is becoming increasingly popular in beauty circles.
For those with long hair, going for the chop is the ultimate commitment. After all, it can take months, if not years, to grow your hair back out should a shorter style not be to your liking. Cue the fringe—a small tweak that can make all the difference in your look without you having to sacrifice your long hair in the process. That said, there are a few things to consider before having a fringe cut in, especially if you intend on keeping length elsewhere. We consulted Chloe Mckiver, a stylist and colour technician at top London salon Taylor Taylor London’s Portobello Road location, who revealed everything we need to know about long hair with fringe.

Elizabeth proves fringes always have a place on the red carpet with her sleek, ultra-long lengths.
YOUR COMPLETE LONG, FRINGED HAIR CARE KIT

When it comes to heat styling, the hair around you face is more prone to damage, as it’s the area you inadvertently style the most. The Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer is one of the best hairdryers around that doesn’t cause damage. It cleverly measures air temperature over 40 times a second and regulates the heat. This prevents extreme heat damage and protects your hair’s natural shine.

Long tresses and fringes require a shampoo that doesn’t weigh the hair down and that strengthens the hair follicles to keep them looking their best. Cue Kérastase’s Resistance Extentioniste, a fortifying shampoo that uses powerful amino acids and ceramides to improve strength from root to tip.

Follow with Kérastase’s Resistance Extentioniste Conditioner to unlock even more strengthening superpowers.

This styling spray has an ultra-fine mist designed to create workable, pliable texture—perfect for fringes that need sculpting without scrimping on movement.

This product is miraculous. It coats the hair in dirt repellent, preventing fringes from getting greasy and stringy. Apply to damp hair from roots to ends and comb through. Style as you normally would, and voila, your very own protective veil.

Constant brushing, combing, or touching your fringe can leave it looking greasy. Instead, give your fringe a refresh by spritzing with dry shampoo and teasing it through with your fingertips. This will add a bit of extra volume and will leave your hair clean looking between washes. This mini spray by hair maestro Sam McKnight is perfect for popping in your handbag.

Give your fringe some extra bounce by placing it in a velcro roller during or after blow-drying. Your hair will fall and become flatter as the day goes on, so starting off with maximum volume is always a good idea.

Another great way of adding lift and bounce to your fringe is with a barrel hot brush, and GHD’s new Rise Professional Hot Brush is the best we’ve tried. Use it on your fringe and the lengths of your tresses to define the shape and on your roots to smooth and lift.

Don’t undo all the effort you put into perfecting your fringe when you go to bed. A silk pillowcase will reduce frizz, minimise split breakages, and regulate oil production to prevent greasy roots. It’ll also help your fringe hold its styled shape.
Next, We asked an expert how to trim your fringe when a salon visit isn’t an option. You can thank us later.
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