The 'French-girl fringe' is low-maintenance and versatile - how to style it this summer

From streamlined pharmacy skincare and minimalist make-up routines to effortless updos and soft, undone waves, French women have long been inspiring beauty routines the world over. That's simply because French beauty is among the most effortless and understated - there are no ten-step routines or convoluted contouring here; just a focus on natural beauty that prioritises longevity over eternal youth, and trends that feel timeless rather than fleeting.

It is no surprise then, that the latest haircut having a resurgence this summer - the 'French-girl fringe' - is one of the most enduring haircuts in French history. Defined by its soft, face-framing features, the low-maintenance fringe has graced the faces of the most celebrated women in French culture over the decades, from Brigitte Bardot to Jane Birkin, and is now enjoying a moment in the spotlight once again.

What defines the French-girl fringe?

"The French-girl fringe is less about a full haircut change and more about adding soft, airy bangs and face-framing that instantly makes simple hair feel styled. It should be cut with point cutting or a razor to keep the shape effortless rather than heavy or too blocky," explains expert hairstylists. "It works well with mid-length or longer hair, softens the face and grows out naturally into face-framing pieces," they shares.

Why is the modern fringe trending this summer?

"The French-girl fringe is becoming increasingly popular because it reflects fashion’s wider move towards effortless, low-maintenance beauty," adds expert hairstylists. "Softer, lighter and intentionally undone, it offers a more wearable alternative to rigid and often high-maintenance bangs," they shares.

Its popularity stems from the undone and effortless nature of the fringe. "Unlike traditional blunt bangs, the modern French fringe is considered far more laid-back because imperfection is part of its charm; intentionally piecey, soft, and with a DIY feel. The beauty of this is that it looks better slightly imperfect, with movement and texture prioritised over precision," adds expert hairstylists. "A little humidity, bend or separation only enhances the lived-in finish, making it feel less demanding day-to-day."

Who are the modern muses for the look?

"The modern muses for the look blend classic Parisian references with contemporary cool-girl energy," says expert hairstylists. "Alexa Chung is frequently cited as the blueprint for the modern French fringe, while Dakota Johnson’s soft, eye-skimming bangs have become a major salon reference point," they adds.

Cara Delevingne is another name who is currently experimenting with the trend, who attended this year's Cannes Film Festival with a new tousled brunette hairstyle and French-inspired bangs. "Today’s interpretation blends Birkin softness with a more contemporary cool-girl finish, creating a look that feels polished but never overly styled," they adds.

What to ask your hairdresser to recreate the look

"Request a soft, wispy fringe with movement and longer, face-framing edges. The key is avoiding anything too blunt or heavy. Ask for a fringe that blends seamlessly into the rest of the haircut, as the modern French fringe should feel integrated rather than sharply separated," advises expert hairstylists. You want to recreate a fringe with movement and separation rather than a heavy or blunt line, they urges. It also goes without saying that your first port of call should be to arm yourself with visual imagery; this will help your hairstylist work out the best style for your preference and hair type.

As with all French beauty hair trends, styling is minimal yet considered. "It's best styled with natural texture, and works particularly well on medium to thick density hair with a slight natural bend," says expert hairstylists.

It's also important to consider your hair type and face shape ahead of styling. As expert hairstylists explains, this fringe will look great on everyone, but it's particularly flattering on longer, oval and heart-shaped faces.

"When it comes to products and tools it will largely depend on hair texture, but the overall goal remains the same: effortless movement rather than over-styling. Apply Larry King's Ride Or Die texture spray to enhance the texture and movement at the end of styling," suggests expert hairstylists.

This low-key fringe taps into beauty's new mood perfectly, and brings with it a sense of ease and effortless style for the summer months.