In 2022, I took the plunge and cut my first fringe. Admittedly, I was slightly inspired by Emily Cooper, the marketing maven from Emily in Paris, and her bold, chic bangs. The style was undeniably French and undeniably appealing, especially as I approached my 30th birthday.
Initially, I adored my new look. It felt like I had finally discovered my signature hairstyle. Much like Lily Collins, who portrayed Emily Cooper, I believed my fringe was here to stay. Collins had shared with GLAMOUR that bangs add a unique flair, even to simple hairstyles like ponytails or buns. She highlighted their versatility and how they handle humidity better than the rest of the hair, adding a touch of French elegance.
However, two years later, both Lily Collins and I seem to be moving on from bangs. The reality of dealing with frizzy bangs in humid weather quickly lost its charm. A recent trip to Cornwall underscored this—there’s nothing more frustrating than spending time styling your bangs only for them to become uncontrollable with the slightest breeze. Has the UK always been this windy?
About a month and a half ago, I started growing out my bangs. Seeing the new season of Emily in Paris, I was relieved to find that Emily was also transitioning away from her fringe. By the end of the first episode, where Emily sported her blunt bangs (I suspect Collins might be using a hairpiece), she began to grow them out.
Growing out bangs can be an awkward process. Yet, Emily Cooper always manages to look effortlessly chic, even during this transition. Flyaways and awkward strands never seem to trouble her. I’m eager to discover her secret for flawless hair.
As I continue to grow out my bangs, Emily Cooper has become my hair inspiration. Here’s a detailed look at how she navigates the fringe grow-out process:
Stage One: Curtain Bangs – When Emily’s bangs grew too long to be worn straight, she parted them in the center for a stylish curtain bang look. This ’70s-inspired style is both flattering and elegant.
Wet Hair Look – For an evening option, Emily slicks her bangs back with a generous amount of hairspray, creating a runway-ready appearance. She complements this look with a streak of green eyeshadow, avoiding a flat, monotone face.
Headband Trick – When bangs are unruly, a Brigitte Bardot-style jersey headband is perfect for keeping them in place. Adding volume at the back of the head enhances this look.
Long Layers – As Emily’s bangs continue to grow, they seamlessly blend into long layers. Pairing this with a low ponytail and a colorful scarf adds a chic touch.
Down and Tucked – Once bangs are long enough, they can be tucked behind the ears. A generous application of hairspray ensures they stay put.
Now, Emily seems to have successfully transitioned from bangs to longer hair. Although I suspect her perfectly swept-back look still involves plenty of hairspray and bobby pins, it offers a romantic and polished finish.