Cut

Curtain haircut

The curtain haircut is defined by its split front silhouette: longer hair is parted through the center or close to it and falls to either side of the forehead.

Classic versions commonly keep enough length around the front and sides to reach roughly ear level, while modern versions range from sleek and controlled to softer, more textured interpretations.

The haircut is especially recognizable on straight and wavy hair, where the two front sections can form the characteristic loose C-shaped sweep.

Style notes

Hair Type Compatibility: 1A
1B
1C
2A
2B
2C
3A
3B
3C
4A
4B
4C
1 2 3 4
Estimates describe how closely defining features can be achieved with ordinary cutting and styling while preserving the natural curl pattern, assuming sufficient length. They are not personal suitability scores, promises, or eligibility guidance. Each segment is labeled for screen readers with its subtype and resolved score.

Examples

Classic straight curtains

Notice the clean center split, retained ear-level length and soft outward bend of the two front sections. Dense predominantly straight hair separates from the center into two smooth face-framing panels with subtle volume and a gentle C-shaped sweep. The front reaches approximately cheekbone-to-ear level, with similar medium length through the sides and enough crown length to keep the silhouette soft rather than cropped.

Variations

Choose the details

Classic curtains

Medium-length hair with a clear center part and smooth front sections falling symmetrically to either side.

Curly curtains

A curl-specific interpretation that preserves the center split and face-framing front while allowing the hair to form a fuller rounded silhouette.

Textured curtains

A looser version with more separation, movement and visible natural texture through the front and crown.

Agree on front length, part position, side length and how strongly the hair should sweep away from the face before cutting.

Should the part sit exactly in the center or slightly off-center?
Where should the front sections finish when dry: eyebrow, cheekbone, ear or lower?
Should the sides remain full around the ears or be tapered shorter?
Do you want a sleek classic finish or more natural texture and separation?
How much daily styling are you willing to do to maintain volume and the outward sweep?

“I’d like medium-length curtains with a clean center part, enough length in front to sweep toward my cheekbones, full sides around the ears, and a soft natural bend rather than a hard-styled finish.”

What changes the result

Bring these variables

The style needs sufficient front length for the hair to divide and fall to both sides of the face.
Very straight or fine hair may need blow-drying or light styling product to create lift and an outward bend instead of lying flat.
Natural waves can create the curtain movement with less styling, while stronger curls increasingly produce a curl-specific interpretation rather than the sleek classic silhouette.
Density affects how exposed the center part appears and how much volume the two front sections can hold.

Sources reviewed

This Iconic ‘90s Look For Men Is Making A Serious Comeback On Tik Tok · Hair.com by L'Oréal · reviewed 2026-09-24

1B Hair: What Is It and How to Care For It · Hair.com by L'Oréal · reviewed 2026-09-24