Fringes are getting shorter this season, if Hollywood’s latest hair transformations are anything to go by. Saoirse Ronan, Zoë Kravitz, Dakota Johnson and Florence Pugh have all experimented with the micro-fringe, a cropped, graphic take on traditional bangs that sits somewhere above the eyebrows.

But Charlize Theron has taken the trend in a different direction. At the Academy Museum Gala, the actress wore her blonde hair swept back, with a short, sculpted fringe curved across her forehead. Tempted to try? The look can be recreated with a ‘winge’ (a play on ‘wig’ and ‘fringe’), a clip-in hairpiece that allows you to experiment with the style without committing to a cut.

After years of relaxed, undone hairstyles, celebrity colourist Nicola Clarke is seeing a return to more polished, deliberately styled hair. “Charlize’s look works because it’s so intentional and feels modern rather than retro,” she says. And while Theron’s interpretation might be a bit too daring for everyday wear, a clip-in fringe offers a way to experiment with different lengths and shapes, without making a permanent change.

How to wear a clip-in fringe

Whether you’re considering a shorter, graphic cut a la Theron or something softer and more face-framing, a faux fringe is a great way to try a different look for an evening out before committing to the real thing.

Dale H, stylist at Hershesons, is a fan of the temporary approach, particularly when it comes to more dramatic styles. “If someone really wanted this look, especially for a special occasion, I’d recommend a clip-in fringe rather than cutting it into their hair,” he says. “Unless they specifically want a more graphic look, you can lose all the softness. If it’s done incorrectly, it can look really hairdresser-y and dated.”

The key is choosing a fringe that complements your existing haircut and blends with your natural hair. A softer, longer fringe can be swept to the side or parted, while a shorter, more graphic style makes a statement when paired with a simple updo. 

And if you don’t have a clip-in fringe to hand? Clarke suggests creating a similar effect with your existing hair. “You can create the effect with your front section of hair, sweeping it up and across and pinning the lengths away, which is great if you’re not ready to commit.”

Who does a winge suit?

One of the advantages of a clip-in fringe is being able to experiment with different lengths and shapes before finding the most flattering fit. “A short fringe is incredibly striking, but it’s bold, because it opens up the face and puts your features on show,” explains Clarke. “If you have a rounder or shorter face, I’d keep the fringe slightly longer and sweep it more diagonally to create length. For a longer face, a fuller curve that sits a little lower helps balance things.”

And there’s no reason to rule it out as you get older. The right fringe can be incredibly flattering at any age, particularly when the length and shape are tailored to your features. For a softer interpretation, Clarke recommends keeping a little more length and volume through the fringe, with a few loose pieces around the face rather than a severely slicked-back finish.

Colour is another consideration, particularly when choosing a hairpiece. Ideally, the fringe should blend with your natural shade and the hair around your face, rather than creating an obvious contrast.

As for curly and coily hair, the most natural-looking result will come from choosing a fringe that complements your existing texture. A curly clip-in fringe can be worn with the hair’s natural movement, rather than trying to recreate Theron’s sleek finish.

Clarke agrees and recommends working with your natural texture when styling the fringe. “On curly or coily hair, the winge becomes softer with a defined curl or coil sweeping up and away from the face.” A curl cream or gel can help define the shape, although it’s important to check whether a clip-in fringe is made from human hair or heat-safe synthetic fibres before using styling products or tools.

How to style a winge at home

For a convincing finish, start by positioning the hairpiece so that it sits naturally against your hairline, then blend the surrounding hair over the attachment to conceal any visible clips. 

If you’re opting for a directional, sculpted fringe like Theron’s, Clarke recommends starting with damp hair and applying a volumising mousse or root lift spray to the front section. “Blow-dry the fringe in the opposite direction to where you want it to sit, then flip it back over. That’s the trick to getting lift at the root.”

Next, use a small round brush to shape the fringe, securing it with flat clips while it cools for a more sculpted finish. “The secret is letting the hair cool completely in its shape before you touch it, because that’s what locks it in,” explains Clarke. “Use a flexible-hold spray rather than a heavy lacquer and mist it from a distance so it doesn’t go crispy.” These techniques are best suited to human-hair or appropriately heat-safe clip-in fringes, so always check the manufacturer’s styling instructions first.

 As for the rest of your hair? Dale suggests pairing the fringe with a loose topknot or Pamela Anderson-inspired updo, leaving a few pieces free around the face. It’s a less structured alternative to Theron’s slicked-back style, particularly if you prefer a more relaxed finish.

 Your Faux Fringe Kit

 Curated Hair Extensions Full Fringe, £50

Made from 100% human hair, this lightweight clip-in fringe comes in 21 shades so I was able to match it to my highlighted hair perfectly. The delicate lace base made for a seamless, natural-looking finish.

 Beauty Works x Huda Barely There Bangs Clip-In Mini Fringe, £75

This fringe is made from 100% Remy human hair, with the cuticles aligned in the same direction to minimise tangling and keep it looking smooth so it looks like naturally silky locks. The discreet silicone clips made it easy to secure to my natural hair. 

Hershesons Almost Everything Cream, £20

This multitasking cream always features in my styling repertoire but is especially handy for styling a fringe as it helps smooth flyaways, adds shine and defines texture, leaving hair looking polished without feeling weighed down.

Hair By Sam McKnight Modern Hairspray Multi-Tasking Styling Mist, £29

I love this hairspray for everyday looks but it also happens to make an excellent finishing touch for a perfectly styled fringe. This fine mist offers flexible, buildable hold with a touch of shine. It brushes out easily too, making it ideal for quick touch-ups throughout the day.