Side Bangs Are Coming Back Stronger Than a ’90s Trend

Getty // Taylor Hill

Side bangs first became popular in the 1960s, later making more appearances in the ’80s, ’90s, and the 2000s. And now the same side bangs are making a return in 2024.

Even legendary actor Meryl Streep says side bangs are back. And you know what? She’s not alone. The 2023 Academy Museum Gala was a side-bang festival, and all your favorite stars were on the bandwagon. Let’s have a closer look.

The Celebrity Stamp of Approval

At the star-studded gala, celebrities like Dua Lipa, Keke Palmer, Christina Ricci, and Natasha Lyonne took side bangs to the red carpet.

Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

It’s not the first time we’ve seen side bangs lately, but this was different. Black-tie-event different. Like, “Did we just step into an alternate universe where everyone has side bangs?” different!

Side Bangs Reinvented

Cara Delevingne (below) and Keke Palmer also gave the humble side bang a modern twist. Blunt bobs, lobs, honey blonde hair—2024’s color of the year—all paired with those chic side parts. Keke Palmer, with her fresh honey blonde locks and Old Hollywood waves, was like a walking trendsetter’s guide.

Twitter // @21metgala

Judging by the red carpet photos from the gala, the debate on the return of side-part bangs is settled—they’re back. As we enter 2024, it seems that side bangs might be just the beginning of a resurgence of iconic trends. Who knows, maybe skinny jeans, heavy eyeliner, and concealer lips will make their red carpet debut soon too!