Clip-on Bangs: Get the Red Carpet Retro Look

Retro style heavy bangs have been made popular by celebrities such as Sandra Bullock and Heidi Klum. The hairstyle has also been presented on the red carpet and at the Fall 2011 Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. Though the '70s heavy bangs are popular, not everyone has very thick hair or wants to commit to the regular maintenance bangs must have. If you're in that situation, there are alternatives to cutting your hair. The retro style is created by clip-on bangs and can change your entire style in a few minutes.

Clip-on Bangs

Bangs are found in several different cuts, but heavy brow-length bangs will create the retro look found on the runways. Clip-on or clip-in bangs have a monofilament surface area that mimics the look of your own scalp. There are several pressure sensitive clips that rake into the hair and snap shut. The clip-in bangs sit very close to the scalp and are undetectable.

Human Hair or Synthetic

Real hair is sold in a longer fringe and must be trimmed down to the length you prefer. You can purchase synthetic hair in the retro style without the need to cut it yourself. Human hair perks include the capability of heat styling and color treating it to match your own hair, whereas synthetic hair cannot be heat styled or chemically treated. Hair products such as hairspray or gel can be used on both types of clip ins, though. When you don't plan to wear your bangs, wash and store them for future use.

How to Apply Clip-on Hair

Part your hair down the middle and rake the clip-on along the hairline. Snap the hair in place once it's in the right position. You can tease your hair slightly around the clip-on bangs to create a fuller look, or leave your hair loose.

Side parts need slightly more work. Split your hair from the side and pull the natural portion of your bangs to the side. Then clip the bangs into place. Release your natural hair and brush it into place.

Accessories for Heavy Bangs

You can wear clip-on bangs without a hair accessory but headbands and scarves pair well with the retro style. Headbands and scarves will pull your natural hair away from the clip-on, so be sure your clip-on is securely in place.