Jennifer lawrence's new bangs are taking over—here's why

Move over, curtain bangs. There's a new face-framing trend dominating Hollywood, and it's all thanks to a subtly clever shape. Celebrities like Jennifer Lawrence, Mia Goth, and Jenna Ortega have already embraced the “U bangs,” a cut that’s proving to be surprisingly flattering across a spectrum of face shapes—and it’s gaining traction fast.

The secret to lifting your face lies in a u-shape

So, what exactly are U bangs? The name is, frankly, quite literal. They're a softer, more modernized take on curtain bangs, distinguished by an inverted “U” shape on each side. The bangs are shortest in the middle—right around the forehead—and gradually lengthen toward the temples, creating a gentle arc that sweeps away from the face. This isn't just a stylistic flourish; according to celebrity hairstylist and Shark ambassador Chris Appleton, the shape is key to achieving a noticeable lift.

“People are realizing they can manipulate the appearance of their face with the right cut and styling,” Appleton explains. “The U-shape, like a more refined version of Farrah Fawcett’s iconic look, definitely lifts the cheekbones.” The principle is straightforward: concealing the cheekbones obscures the face’s natural contours. Instead, the goal is to highlight and define them.

Appleton emphasizes that cutting bangs just above or at the cheekbone is the sweet spot. When styled, this placement reveals the cheekbones, creating a more sculpted and youthful appearance. “U bangs are, quite simply, the universal bang of bangs,” he states, a sentiment that might just solidify their place as the season’s must-try style. The trend underscores a broader shift in celebrity hairstyling—a move away from overly concealing styles and towards cuts that celebrate rather than hide facial structure. It’s a refreshing change, and one that promises to be remarkably versatile.