From “the Fawcett” in the 70s to “the Rachel” in the 90s, every decade has had an iconic hairstyle. Today, the spotlight belongs to “the Claudia” — presenter Claudia Winkleman’s signature inky-black, face-skimming block fringe that has become a cultural phenomenon on and off TV screens.
The hairstyle has inspired memes, online debates about its exact length and even a fan page on X that calls it “the highest-paid fringe on the BBC.” Comedian Alan Carr has gone as far as declaring the fringe — not Winkleman — a national treasure.
But while Winkleman’s dramatic style — oversized roll-necks and fingerless gloves — is easy enough for fans to copy, recreating her fringe has always been the hardest part. Until now.
The Rise of Clip-On Fringes
A new wave of commitment-free clip-in fringes has taken over the beauty industry, giving anyone the chance to experiment without scissors or regret.
London-based hairstylist and extensions expert Hadley Yates, who has just launched a range under his brand Curated, says the purpose is simple:
“To let people experience having a fringe without actually cutting one.”
While synthetic clip-ins are available online for as little as £2, Yates’ £35 real-hair fringes have become the beauty world’s favourite because of their natural texture and movement. Synthetic versions often look overly shiny and become static, whereas real hair blends seamlessly and can be blow-dried and styled like the real thing.
Available in six colours, the fringes can be worn as sold — or customised in a salon to match personal preference.
The Experience: A Fringe Without Regret
The design features a lace base, hand-sewn hair and a snap clip that attaches near the parting. With a quick spritz of root touch-up spray to darken the lace, the fringe blends impressively well.
Unlike a blunt cut, the clip-in features a curtain-bang shape, giving that effortless French-girl feel — part Jane Birkin, part Brigitte Bardot. Insertion takes seconds:
place upside-down, flip over, snap in — and suddenly you’re living the fringe fantasy.
Initial reactions? Compliments, curiosity and — unexpectedly — popularity. Like a tiny designer dog in a handbag, everyone wants a closer look.
Is Life Better With a Fringe?
While real fringes can mean constant trims, dry-shampoo dependency and styling stress, the clip-in fringe offers freedom: wear it when you want, tuck it in your bag when you don’t. A beanie might require a quick comb-through, but no long-term commitment is needed.
Twenty-four hours later, the fluttering feeling across the eyelashes still takes some getting used to — but the confidence boost is undeniable. Maybe the real saying is:
Blondes don’t have more fun — fringes do.