Fringe benefits: Experts share tips to style and maintain your fringes

Khushi Kapoor. Pics Courtesy/Instagram

Good fringes are elusive, except to an expert. So if you are looking for that thick, full-bodied and perfectly set fringe, head to a professional, this is what Ay'sha Rodrigues, hair stylist and owner of Salon Ay'sha in Andheri West, recommends. Fringes have a reputation for being high-maintenance. But cutting a fringe doesn't mean you would be forced to blow-dry and style it to ensure it sits well every time you step out.

Beyonce's curly Farah Fawcett-like cut for a curly fringe

A fringe will only be challenging to maintain if it hasn't been cut correctly to suit your hair texture and type. This face-framing cut can help revamp a look whether you have curly, wavy or straight hair. She also notes that different tools like a trimmer or a pair of scissors can be used to tackle different hair types. Here are tips from Rodrigues to achieve a cut and style as clean as Khushi Kapoor's latest hairdo, or if you prefer a messier or a shorter and more chic crop.

Ay'sha Rodrigues. Pic Courtesy/@weareivypark

Face structure

There is no rule about who can wear what. But if you're looking for a guideline, a fringe will eat up a face with a narrow forehead. It's also generally said that faces with larger foreheads need a fringe, but that's untrue. Flaunt your forehead in all its glory just like Rihanna.

Movement

If your stylist thinks the fringe may move to either side and not sit in the middle based on your hair movement and partition, or if your hair is too thin and you're worried about the thickness of the fringe, don't fret. Use a fake fringe hairpiece instead. You can also try on a swatch before you decide to cut one.

Beach waves and playful fringe styled by Rodrigues

Hair type

"Every hair type can sport a fringe, your stylist will know how to cut a fringe based on the texture and type," Rodrigues notes. If you're looking for different styles, check out Beyonce's Farrah Fawcett-like look for a curly fringe. The stylist suggests actor Sadhana Shivdasani's short fringe for a forever-in-style '70s Bollywood throwback.

Maintenance

Rodrigues informs that with Mumbai's humidity, it's essential to use a sulphate-free shampoo and maintain your fringe right from the cleansing stage. Use an anti-frizz serum or hydrating cream if your hair is dry, or a light hair oil for shine.

Styling

Set your fringe with texturising powder so that it sits right without falling flat. If you have the time, blow-dry your hair with a round brush for structure. "Fringes are versatile. If it's long enough, you can comb the fringe back into a poof or clip it to the side. Those with curly hair can straighten it while people with straight silky hair can confidently wear beach waves," the hair stylist observes.