On the fringe

Ask an expert to weigh in on the power of bangs, and the list of adjectives is endless.

Classic yet versatile. Long or short. Wispy or heavy. Sideswept or straight. Dont forget magical, as they can make forehead wrinkles and blemishes disappear.

Bangs even stole the show at the presidential inauguration. She may have jokingly blamed them on a midlife crisis, but the impact of fashionable first lady Michelle Obamas new forehead fringe was fierce enough to spark robust discussion among the style authorities and even an unauthorized Twitter account, @FirstLadysBangs.

Beauty retailer Ulta, which has locations in Evesham and Moorestown, considers bangs to be a key accessory with a staying power unlike the average fad.

They can shorten a long face or slim a round face, and even edge up a conservative do. Season after season, classics like the straight-across bang come back, and new incarnations crop up, Ulta said.

Seasoned hair designer Michele Iwanicki, owner of TBS Salon & Spa on High Street in Burlington City, considers bangs to be the perfect beauty pick-me-up not to mention cheaper than Botox.

Bangs are a quick way to change your look, said Iwanicki, who has plenty of guidelines for good bangs.

Face shape is the first consideration. Oval faces are lucky because they look great with any shape or length of bangs, while round faces should avoid blunt fringe and middle parts. Try a side bang with a side part and it will work and look beautiful, advised Iwanicki.

Oblong and square faces are best flattered by face-framing layers.

Long bangs, like the ones sported by raven-haired reality starlet Kim Kardashian, are versatile enough to change up when the mood strikes.

What other celebrities do bangs right? Zoey Deschanel, Michelle Williams, Emma Stone, Pink and Liv Tyler, said Iwanicki.

But some stars, like Leanne Rimes, Angelica Houston, Marilyn Manson and Madonna, might want to try hats for a while. Sometime! s we have to ask ourselves, what were they thinking? said Iwanicki, who grudgingly gives pop singer Justin Bieber props for ditching his fringe.

Iwanickis personal recommendation: dont go too short. Do not wear granny bangs or Mamie Eisenhower bangs; just not a good look!

Lastly, never cut your own as it will destroy the look of your hair, according to Iwanicki. You get what you pay for!

Jeannie OSullivan: 609-871-8068;

Email: josullivan@phillyburbs.com;

Twitter: @jeannieosulliva

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